Bargain Birthday at the Sheraton

Recently, my husband and I spent the night at the Sheraton for his birthday, thanks to his parents (they babysat) and priceline.com. Travelocity listed a room at the Sheraton (a 3 1/2 star hotel) for $107, but I paid $49 (the price of a budget hotel).

Tips:

• If possible, travel during off peak times. We stayed over a Monday night rather than a Friday or Saturday.


• Do your research. Priceline advertises savings of up to 50%, and I knew what the published rate of a 3 to 4 star hotel was.


• Don't leave money on the table. I bid just a little lower than 50% of the published rate. In fact, my first offer was rejected. You can always try again.