Airlines and hotel chains have been trying to avoid giving cash refunds where ever possible. So much so that the DoT has had to issue two separate enforcement notices reminding airlines of their obligations. Hotels.com is now offering users a Hotels.com eGiftcard with an additional 15% bonus if they choose that payment method over a cash refund. You can currently get a 20% discount when using an AmEx offer and sometimes Swagbucks offers a 15% bonus + credit card points. This option could still be attractive if receiving a cash refund would result in you missing a minimum spend requirement though.
Hotels.com is also offering double rewards on refundable stays currently and has also extended status and free night certificates.
Hat tip to matt_the_hat
I did a cancellation with them about a month ago. The reservation used a gift card I bought at discount. They refunded back as a gift card with the 15% bonus. So they do this when cash (cc) not even used..
This could invite unscrupulous behavior!
I came here to post similar thoughts in a clearer fashion. I guess I’ll just experiment like you and not spell it out. 😀
Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not experimenting with this at all. I value my relationship with them too much to risk it (since I have much still invested in discount their gcs).
Tread with caution unless you don’t value the relationship. At that point you’re only guided by morals.
I had to cancel 6 bookings – 4 just 2 days ago and two 3 weeks ago. Some were booked using GCs, and some only credit cards. I did NOT get the 15% offer on any one of the cancellations.