Travel is full of pitfalls. One wrong step and your vacation could be ruined by a seedy hotel room, an overpriced restaurant, a wasted afternoon at a tourist-trap attraction or an overnight flight crammed in the middle seat. So, guarantee a smooth trip by planning thoroughly. Here's how to make all the right moves.
Before you book, ask when the property was built or renovated — a Super 8 can be wonderful if it's only a couple of months old, and a W that hasn't been touched in years can be ratty. Beware low-priced motels and even midrange chains that haven't been renovated in more than five years.
