with priceline and hotwire do you get similar back of the hotel, inferior rooms, or do you get the 'next room available' when you check in?
thanks
In hotels that offer different room types, you typically get the cheapest tier.
I have probably used Hotwire and Priceline over 50 times, and I make it a habit of asking the front desk clerk exactly what you've been wondering. They always tell me the same thing, 'no'. Again, some hotels have different room tiers (and you get the cheapest), but within the tier, its usually a first come first serve basis.
My suggestion is that when you go to check in, be cordial with the check-in clerk, ask them how their day is, and how occupancy is. They're used to cranky and demanding guests, so you'll be a breath of fresh air. They're human too.
I also suggest you express your room preference before they grab your room. Sometimes they will accommodate you and sometimes they won't.
In Hollywood Beach, Reno, and Vegas, I've even negotiated cheap hotel room upgrades on top of a cheap Hotwire / Priceline booking. Yay. And in San Francisco, I got a great FREE upgrade with a Hotwire purchase.
For what its worth, I'm a big believer in families (or other groups of 3 or more travellers) choosing
Hotwire over Priceline (worth a read). You'll pay a bit more but there are a few compelling reasons for doing so.