Extra, Extra: Resort Amenities Can Be a Surprising Addition to That Big Bill

Feb. 8, 2008 — -- What's better than fending off the pressures of the wintry city with a relaxing stay at a toasty resort with spectacular views, luxurious rooms, tennis, golf and plenty of pools?

Many people cherish these winter getaways as a chance to kick back, chill out and unwind, and they're willing to lay out beaucoup bucks for a room at top-notch hotels such as the Arizona Biltmore. But at $450 a night, wouldn't you think all of the resort's amenities would be included? Well, watch out for the cold snap of hotel fees, says travel expert Chris Elliott.

"Fees are an increasingly large part of every hotel's revenue equation," said Elliot. "They are relying more on these extras and surcharges for turning a profit."

Armed with hidden cameras, "20/20" took a closer look at all the extra fees hotels tack on.

The first fee we encountered at the Arizona Biltmore was a resort charge. It costs an additional $25 a day for things like the daily newspaper, use of the gym and an 18-hole putting green and shuttle service to a nearby mall. Shopping? Keeping up with bad news? Working out? But what if you don't intend to use any of amenities? You're on vacation, after all. Well, even if you just want to splash in the pool, bake in the sun and hang out at the bar, you're stuck with the resort charge all the same.

Every guest who stays on the property receives the resort charge regardless if you use it or not — it's a mandatory charge that everybody receives.

Resort fees at other hotels are even more incredible — including items like pool towels and the in-room safe. Some places even charge for opening the mini bar whether or not you take something out.

And, as "20/20" discovered, some hotels don't even disclose their resort fees until it's too late.

When our producer booked and then checked into the posh Cordillera Inn and Spa in Colorado's ski country, there was no mention of a resort fee. But the bill showed an $11 resort service fee. The staff offered an explanation that was, frankly, to no avail.