I laughed when I saw a news report on an LA TV station talking about New Year’s Eve on the Sunset Strip.
The reporter talked to a few restaurants and bars and, while giving a good overview of what’s available and the pricing, wrapped up the story with this all-too-familiar warning: “Everything will sell out by the morning so you better make your reservations in advance.”
To the contrary, I’ve found it’s better – and often cheaper – to wait until the very last minute because you may get better deals. Several times I go to Las Vegas with no New Year’s hotel reservations. A quick check of prices shows rooms in the $200-350 range for NYE but by waiting, the price is likely to drop to $150-250, perhaps even less.
Planning for New Year’s Eve does not have to be a stressful experience by following these time-tested tips:
1.) Do You Research Ahead Of Time to Determine Your Options. The best way to get the best deal is to see what’s out there so you can consult with friends (or whomever you will be partying with that night) and start considering your options. By knowing all your options ahead of time – start checking about two weeks before New Year’s Eve – you’ll be better prepared for the following tips. And this will save you money.
2.) Once You’ve Narrowed Your Selections, Keep Checking on Prices and Availability. Restaurants, bars and NYE party promoters start sending out e-mails and promoting their events a month in advance. And notice they keep doing it right up until New Year’s Eve. If you keep getting e-mails, that means it’s not sold out, so if you are interested in that event or location, keep monitoring it through the e-mails or its website. Also, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call.
3.) Be Ready to Bargain. If a hotel, restaurant, club or bar lists a price for a room or its event, simply call them up and try and work a deal. You’ll likely get a better rate the later you call because they know it’s better to collect some money than none at all. Tell them you are looking at several options and see what they might have to offer, than you’ll perhaps get back to them, that you’re not ready to commit. They may make you a discounted offer; if not make them an offer.
4.) Before Committing, Call Back Your Top Choices on NYE Day. It’s best to narrow down your choices to three or four options. Call back in the early afternoon just to see if one can give you an even bigger discount or deal. Then, once you’ve made a decision, stick with it. If you keep going back and forth you will only drive yourself – and others in your group – crazy.
5.) Make Your Reservations By Late Afternoon. Don’t wait too long; you need to get ready for the night. Once you’ve made your plans, then make your reservations by late afternoon. Then relax, so an early “cheers” with your friends and get ready to party!
All that’s left to say now is New Year’s Cheers!
NYE LINKS:
• Top Party Places for New Year’s Eve
• #1 New Year’s Eve Destination: New Orleans
• New Year’s Eve Las Vegas Party Guide
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