Beware the extra unseen charges (Travelodge in general)

Member Name: George's mum

Product:	Travelodge in general
Date:	28/07/09 (18 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Once found the stays to be basic but cheap

Disadvantages: Too many to mention

I booked back in January 2009 for a stay in March.The internet booking system is a joke as to get a cheap rate,you have to book each night individually and then call the lodge direct so that they don't move you to different rooms for each night.You cannot book in a block ie/ 3 nights as to do this you are charged an extra £20.00.
I complained by letter that their website was misleading and eventually received a letter written it seemed by a 6 year old.My name was wrong, my address was wrong only giving half of the details even my postcode was wrong.I still wonder how the letter got to me!
I phoned to complain and was kept waiting 45 mins.I finally got through to someone who said that I should e-mail or write in.I told him that I had already done this.I wrote again got a phone call from a very bolshy customer service person saying that it was their right to charge extra and it was in their terms and conditions that this is what happend if you were not wise to their system.
To cut a long story short,I wrote two letters to their "interim customer service director" each letter was dated and sent after a fortnight.I then wrote to their managing director.He must think himself and staff so important as I had to smile as I read his letter as he reiterated how his staff and himself were so high up and shouldn't be troubled by customers complaining.
I have heard that for every person who has a complaint then 100 people will hear of this by word of mouth.I hope this is the case.I will never use Travelodge again and unless you want to risk an added cost by booking online I suggest it be boycotted and then the staff will have to join the real world and deal with customers properly.
Fingers crossed the management will no longer think themselves untouchable either.

Summary: Use another chain / their competitors