Hotel hardship

I see that hotels are being "hammered" by a big fall in occupancy (Business, 21 January). It is difficult to feel much sympathy, especially for those hotels which seem reluctant to accept forward bookings for one night only, often stipulating a two night minimum stay.

Their invitation to "call back nearer the time and we might be able to take you" is a thinly veiled way of saying "if we haven't had a better offer, and you're getting desperate, we'll take your money after all, rather than be stuck with an unlet room".

This style of "you'll have had your tea?" marketing is hardly conducive to the increased occupancy they say they need.

JAMES L SHEARER

Cargilfield View

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