Expedia's popularity makes browsing slow. To ensure the best deal, do some comparative shopping. Visit the Web site of the airline you're flying, and see if it matches your quote. It takes no more time to make hotel reservations online than to call most 1-800 numbers. Before booking, though, research your hotel and visit its Web site.
Many online agencies have guidebooks rate their listings, too.
Be wary of thumbnail photos that don't match their description, and accommodations with little explanation. The descriptions are thorough and interesting. I learned that the Belize Odyssey Resort, located inside the barrier reef, specializes in diving and fishing. For a customized list of hotels, choose your destination and some preferred features. Its scanty descriptions also gave little indication of what travellers would find.