Why You Should Always Book Directly With a Hotel (Especially Ours!)
March 29, 2025When planning a relaxing getaway to Lancaster County, choosing the perfect place to stay is just the beginning. But how you book your room matters just as much as where you stay. At AmishView Inn & Suites, we often hear guests ask whether it’s better to book directly with us or through a third-party site like TripAdvisor or Expedia.
To help clear up the confusion, our General Manager, Katie Gensemer, shares five important reasons why booking directly with a hotel—especially a boutique, independent property like ours—is always the best choice.
1. Access to the Most Room Options
Third-party booking sites only show a small portion of available rooms. That’s because they charge the hotels that use them a very hefty commission so the hotels only grant them limited inventory. If you’re hoping to stay in a spacious studio suite — or you’re eyeing one of our adult-only suites—it may not show up on a third-party site at all. When you book direct, you’ll have full access to every room type we offer and every available room, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your stay.
2. Exclusive Loyalty Perks and Promotions
Hotels often have special loyalty benefits and perks for guests who book directly. At AmishView, our loyalty program is available only to those who reserve with us directly. That means you could enjoy discounts on future stays! Also, we have some perks like our Shopping Enhancement that are only available to those that book directly. Booking direct also helps us get to know you better, making it easier for us to personalize your experience.
3. More Flexible Cancellations and Payment Policies
When you book through a third party, you’re agreeing to their cancellation and payment terms—not the hotel’s. This can make changes or cancellations tricky, especially if you need to adjust your plans last minute. At AmishView Inn, we offer direct-book guests the flexibility to cancel without fees up to 4 PM the day before arrival. That peace of mind can make a world of difference, especially when travel plans are uncertain. Also, if you selected a pre-pay plan with the 3rd party, that payment is made to the 3rd party not the hotel so any issues with payment will need to go through the 3rd party.
4. No Hidden Fees
Have you ever found a great rate online, only to be hit with unexpected fees at checkout? It happens more often than you’d think. Some third-party sites tack on extra charges that drive up the total cost—making what seemed like a deal less of a bargain. By booking directly with us, the price you see is the price you pay, with no surprises.
5. Personalized, On-the-Ground Customer Service
Need help changing your reservation? Wondering where to grab a great farm-to-table dinner nearby? When you book direct, you’re connected with real people at AmishView who know the area—and who genuinely care about your experience. Our friendly front desk team is just a phone call away, ready to assist with anything you need, from travel tips to last-minute changes. Please be aware that we have seen 3rd party sites represent themselves as a hotel representative especially when you are calling to make change to a reservation or book a reservation. So make sure to book via amishviewinn.com or by calling us at (866) 735-1600.
Book Direct for Peace of Mind and the Best Experience
In the end, booking directly with AmishView Inn & Suites isn’t just the smarter choice—it’s the more personal one. You get the full range of room options, better flexibility, and the kind of attentive service that makes your stay truly memorable.
So next time you’re planning a visit to Lancaster County, skip the third-party sites and come straight to the source. We can’t wait to welcome you.
Ready to experience the difference? Book your stay directly with us today online or by calling (866) 735-1600.