With the economy struggling to gain momentum, travellers are increasingly opting to stay home. That’s bad news for hotel operators, particularly since many of them expanded with new construction during the economic boom of the last decade.

But while that might be bad for business, it can be great for those travellers on a budget.

Here are some ways to score a great hotel without breaking the bank:

Check out a hotel website
When booking, first look on the website for the hotel where you’d like to stay. Often hotels have deals that are only available to people who book through their websites, rather than another online travel service. Others have a policy that will match prices if you find one that is lower. Be sure to compare that to online travel sites before booking. You can then call the hotel directly and ask if they can offer you a lower rate than you’ve found online - you’ll be surprised how often they agree.

Go in the off-season
If you’re traveling to major cities like New York or London, try planning a weekend trip. City hotels usually cater to business travelers, who mainly travel for work on weekdays. That means you’re more likely to score a good deal in an urban center on the weekend. As well, if you don’t need to be right in the downtown try choosing a hotel on the outskirts or suburbs of a big city. This can be a great money-saver, but choose carefully because you could end up spending more renting a car or paying for gas and parking than you’ll save on a hotel. As for resorts, try travelling in the off-season, such as late fall or early spring.

Look for discounts
Many hotels offer discounts to military veterans, AAA members, seniors, or corporate travellers. Check for any discounts you may qualify for before booking. Don’t be afraid to ask the hotel directly for any discounts, package rates (such as paying for two nights and getting the third for free) or complimentary upgrades. Be sure to call the hotel’s direct number, rather than a national 800 number. Individual hotels have wide latitude to set their own prices, while call centers don’t.

Join a loyalty program
Most major hotel chains have some sort of loyalty or rewards program for frequent guests. These allow you to accumulate points every time you stay in one of the chain’s hotels. Some major chains also own several hotel brands and you can use their loyalty cards at any of the parent company’s hotels. Most of these loyalty programs are free to join and the points can be used for several years with few restrictions. Many hotel chains have also partnered with major credit card companies, allowing you to earn points with any purchase that can be used toward free nights at a hotel. But not all hotel credit cards are equal. Some offer more generous sign-up bonuses than others and some come with higher annual fees or interest rates.

Rebook
Your hotel plans don’t have to end once you’ve made your reservation. Keep checking the prices on your hotel of choice. If you spot a deal or a price-drop after you’ve already booked, cancel your reservation and rebook at the lower price.

I highly recommend the European style and elegance of the Kingston Best Western Fireside Inn

Kingston Ontario Canada has many fine dining establishments. Some cater to eccentric tastes, some to an eclectic mix of  atmosphere and palette, and some cater to the fine diner who’s interested in comfort, style and elegance.

Bistro Stefan in Kingston Ontario, is a fine example of the later. Upon entering the restaurant, you’re greeted by the maître d who seats you and introduces you to your waiter or waitress. He offers you a wine list with a selection of regional and international wines, available from the vast wine cellar.

If you find it hard to choose from the succulent selections, your waiter or waitress will make suggestions based on what your preferences are. Whether you like meat, fish, poultry or even gourmet pizza, Bistro Stefan has a dish that will inspire your taste buds.

The ambiance of the restaurant is contemporary with a very elegant aura, the perfect setting for a fine dining experience. Men will feel comfortable in a shirt and sports coat and women in an evening dress.

The menu offers a delectable selection of appetizers, soups and salads, entrees, and even gourmet pizza. In addition, there’s a breakfast menu and even a Kid’s menu.

From personal experience, I highly recommend the following:

Appetizer:
Coconut Crusted Shrimp With Vietnamese Dipping Sauce

Soup:
Curried Apple Squash Soup

Entree:
Centre cut 8oz AAA Filet Mignon, Grilled to Taste, Herb Forest Mushroom, Garlic Mashed Potatoes,  Lemon Rosemary Jus

Dessert:
Chocolate Fondue

Whether you live in Kingston or you’re visiting, you owe it to yourself to experience the culinary pleasures and fine dining experience of Bistro Stefan.