Although Expedia completely mangled my reservation when an airline changed my flights seven years ago when suddenly the 737 Max planes were all grounded, I again used Expedia two weeks ago to make my plane reservations for my bike tour this coming June and July. I described how Expedia messed things up in post number 15 above if anyone missed it.

I have had NUMEROUS times where that is not the case. Before I go in without a reservation, I check the various travel sites to see what they charge. Then if the walk-up price is higher, I ask point blank "Can you meet or beat (Booking.com)'s price? Here is what it shows the price is." and I show them the screen. About 25% of the time, they won't even meet it. I then ask "So you want me to book the price online to get this price?". They answer yes 99% of the time. It amazes me because those sites take something like 20%-40% commission and you know if I can get a room for say $100 the hotel is not getting $100. They usually say it is a contractual thing or "the boss won't let me adjust the prices".

I have used Booking over 100 times easily. I have had 2 issues, both the hotel's fault. Once Booking backed me, once they back the hotel. I didn't use them for 2 years because they screwed me that time but if they are the cheapest of the "reputable" companies (Booking, Priceline, Expedia, etc.), then I have no problem booking them.

I would say give them a chance but use the app. And be sure to look at the other reputable sites as they can be cheaper too.

Tailwinds, John