Boutique Hotel

If you're in the midst of planning a Dallas business trip for a large group and the budget is tight, don't fret! We've got some tips and ideas to help save money without skimping on the "umph" your event needs to be a success.

Tip #1: Use Cvent! Cvent is an excellent tool for submitting RFPs to a huge selection of Dallas hotels and allows you an edge when negotiating rates, rentals, and amenities for your upcoming Dallas event. There are plenty of great deals out there, so don't be shy in asking for flexibility with room rental, catering, and/or sleeping room rates—go for as many comp room nights as possible!

Tip #2: Use the hotel! Dallas hotels are great resources for seeking out popular restaurants, shopping and attractions. Some may even have coupons, passes, or connections at certain hotspots.

Tip #3: Use DART! Group passes, available for a minimal price per person, allow for travel all over Dallas via rail or bus. Generally, hotels offer complimentary shuttle service within a certain radius (usually five miles) and many are located near DART rail stations. This not only saves money on Dallas transportation for groups, but is friendlier to the environment as well.

Among the Dallas hotels centrally located near rail stations are: Hyatt Regency Dallas at Reunion, Sheraton Dallas Hotel, Dallas boutique hotel ZaZa, Hotel Palomar Dallas, Renaissance Dallas-Richardson, and Doubletree Hotel Dallas-Campbell Centre.

Tip #4: Be as flexible as possible! If dates aren't set in stone, flexibility in schedule can really help your bottom line. Many hotels have slower months and days where they have a bit more leeway with rates and package deals.

Tip #5: Don't forget about your rewards programs! Many times meeting planners don't consider the perks and benefits of using your preferred loyalty program as a bargaining tool. If the hotel is unable to go lower with price, but the package and hotel are too great to pass up, ask what they can offer in the way of points.

Tip #6: Enjoy Dallas! Be confident in your selection of Dallas as a meeting destination and enjoy the many wonderful venues, attractions and conveniences this city has to offer. Dallas is booming with business and arts and offers some great outlets for team building and relaxation for business travel.