Navigating Hawaii Resort Fees: How the 2025 FTC Rule Impacts Your Budget

In this episode, Marcie from Hawaii Travel Meet Easy addresses the issue of unexpected resort fees that can disrupt travel budgets. She discusses the new 2025 Federal Trade Commission rule requiring hotels to disclose total prices upfront, including all mandatory fees. Marcie explains what resort fees cover, why they exist, and strategies for managing these costs effectively. She offers a five-point navigation strategy to help travelers budget accurately and compare accommodations fairly. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding resort fees and suggests alternatives like vacation rentals or boutique hotels for better value. Marcie also provides resources for personalized travel consultations and detailed information about resort fees and alternative accommodations.

00:00 Introduction and Hidden Resort Fees
01:30 Understanding Resort Fees and New Rules
02:21 The Real Cost of Resort Fees
03:48 Strategies to Navigate Resort Fees
07:01 When to Avoid Resort Fees
07:43 Alternative Accommodation Options
08:14 Conclusion and Resources

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