A new hotel deals website called GetaRoom (www.getaroom.com/) has been launched, co-founded by Bob Diener and David Litman, founders of Hotels.com.

 The site was originally housed under RoomValues.com, but they changed domains to GetaRoom.com just before launch, which definitely sounds more attractive and easy to remember, even if it does bring forth visions of couples doing it in public.

Considering the success of their previous venture (Hotels.com is now owned by Expedia), it’s not a stretch to say that GetaRoom.com will soon be a player to reckon with in the hotel deals arena. And they’re already making waves with their launch rebate.

Getaroom.com is offering travelers a $25 rebate through July 31, 2009. Travelers booking accommodations via the getaroom.com call center at 800-HOTELS-8 (800-468-3578) will receive a $25 rebate on all bookings, including bookings made with its unpublished rates.

To add to the punch, there is full disclosure at time of booking including the hotel name and exact location. Which means that Priceline, Hotwire and other sites which offer opaque pricing but do not disclose the name of the property will now be at a disadvantage. If GetaRoom.com really takes off, it could force changes in how Priceline and similar sites operate.

In a press statement, David Litman said that “We are working very hard to ensure our guests receive the best values for their travel dollars. Our expertise in the hotel industry is unparalleled. Bob and I literally launched the online hotel booking industry back in 1995 with hotels.com, and its predecessor Hotel Reservations Network. We are bringing our entrepreneurial spirit to getaroom.com in order for our clients to get the best rates, the best service and the best information.”

The site provides complete descriptions, maps and photos of the hotels plus travelers can view a side-by-side comparison of properties to help them select the hotel that best meets their travel criteria.

There’s also a ‘Deals of the Day’ section which seems to be a lot more active than similar services offered by sites like Voyij. I found deals for hotels in New York (The Belnord - $83.85),  Las Vegas (The Orleans Hotel & Casino - $27) and Miami Beach (Carlton Hotel, South Beach - $53.84).

As an added service for a streamlined booking experience getaroom.com offers savings and booking capabilities for airfare and popular attractions in cities worldwide.

Posted on July 9th, 2009 by PLing
Filed under: Hotels