Can I get a better deal avoiding the 800 number and calling the hotel directly?

Can I get a better deal avoiding the 800 number and calling the hotel directly?

Catharine Hamm (Travel Editor, LA Times) gives expert video advice on: Can I get a better deal avoiding the 800 number and calling the hotel directly?; Is it possible to get a cheaper rate if I just walk into a hotel?; Are there certain types of hotels that families should avoid? and more...

You sometimes can get a better deal on a hotel by calling the local number and speaking with the reservations agent or the hotel manager. I wouldn't discount using the 800 number either, because it's all part of the kinds of tools that you have that can help you get a better rate on a hotel room.