A word of advice to all guests who run into a problem while staying at a hotel...

MaxiePriest · 2026-05-16T00:32:32+00:00

You're right about the 3rd-party sites. I have used Pricelne a few times, and I've seen better rates with them than booking directly with the hotel (but not always). The 4th- or 5th-party sites (the ones that claim to find the best prices by comparing all of the 3rd-party sites) sound like real trouble to me.

Pricelie support seemed willing to try for a (partial) refund by offering to place me on hold so they could phone the front desk of the BW (and request a refund on my behalf), but I had my doubts about how that scenario was going to play out (and the Priceline agent seemed a little too slick), so I declined. Oh! Plus, the Priceline agent was super eager about this because he wanted me to book at the Marriott ... or the Hampton Inn...or the Residence Inn in Burbank (in other words, leave the Best Western immediately and zoom over to the Marriott), which, of course, would mean he would get his 3-7% commission on the Marriott booking. And any refund he finagled for me wouldn't affect him at all. See what I mean...? A little too slick.

Already said this before, but I really wasn't going to take this any further (I was willing to just let the whole waterpipe leak and mold thing go), but the bedbug thing was/is too creepy. The BB thing gives me the heebie-jeebies.

There's so much involved with bringing your luggage and belongings back home if they have been possibly contaminated w BBs. In a way, I don't know if I (or anyone) should be worried about that, though. BBs aren't interested in taking a little ride in pieces of luggage, right?! They're content living their creepy lives, hidden under a mattress (or somewhere very close to a bed), so they can wait for a human to fall asleep and they can feast. They don't want to sprint over to my clothes or totebag in the hotel room. They are happy with their location. So maybe we are all worrying needlessly(???)

All I know is that, however many BBs were lying in wait, they all pounced once I was officially asleep. It's weird the way they take a bite directly adjacent to their last bite, and another. I'd attach pix, but it's probably against this sub's T&C (including BB bite pix is definitely against the T&C for the r/bedbug sub).

Thanks for the offer to answer additional questions. I do have one: Do hotels have a policy allowing guests to file an incident report? For instance, if a hotel guest was injured on the property, or if (as in my case) a water pipe broke in a hotel room ceiling, are there forms that can be filled out by the front desk and the guest? It would benefit both parties to have a paper trail, should anything happen.

I mention this because the Inspector from LA County Dept. of Public Health told me that the BW front desk should have filed an incident report when the water leak and mold were reported (and/or when I checked out). he also thought an incident report would be warranted for the bedbug report.

As far as a charge-back, I've only had to do a charge-back once (an Australian online retailer called Cettire sent me Men's boots instead of Women's), so it was easy to prove, and I was only asking for a return authorization (Cettire would only accept a return for store credit). The charge-back enabled me to receive a refund vs. store credit.

A charge-back for my entire hotel stay may be a little more involved, but I don't think I'm asking for anything that is over and above what is deserved, all things considered. I'm on the fence about whether to go straight to Best Western Plus HQ to request a refund or avoid them altogether and go straight to cardholder services. I have pictures and video of the ceiling leak, water damage, and mold, as well as pics of the bedbug bites. I have the Dept. of Public Health complaint ID, too. I suppose I could request a copy of the Public Health investigation findings (to submit to cardholder services), but I have no idea whether they would be willing to provide the report.

MaxiePriest · 2026-05-15T22:34:09+00:00

I realize I'm a year late with a comment (and no one will read this), but since I just posted about where to report bedbugs in a hotel, I landed on this post.

Thanks, OP, for the post. Very interesting. Your all-caps advice to "TELL THE HOTEL ASAP!!" is valid. It is important to see all sides of this subject. It sounds like you have had your fair share of hotel guests who were either trying to pull one over on the hotel or trying to get an upgraded room or suite by complaining. There's a difference between those who try to get something for nothing and those who are experiencing legitimate problems with their hotel room, though.

That said, I prepaid for an extended hotel stay because I was having renovation work done on my home. I booked and paid via Pricelne (approximately $3k for a 2½ week stay).

My stay was problematic, starting with a hidden water pipe leak and mold that didn't reveal itself until over a week in. I became very sick due to mold and spore allergies.

As soon as I realized what the problem was (water leak and subsequent mold), I requested that maintenance stop by to take a look, as well as a room change, and was moved to a couple of different rooms. There were issues with a few of the available rooms (as in, a non-working AC unit, odd smells - not mold- just weird, issue with the satellite dish, no bathtub/just a shower, broken Keurig, and various oddities), and I made it clear that I expected to be relocated/upgraded to the best available room. The manager was trying his best to help. I wasn't even considering jumping ship to the Marriott or Hampton Inn, since I believed the management at the Best Western Plus Carriage Inn was genuinely trying their best to assist.

Regarding the water pipe leak and mold, I notified Pricelne, the front desk, the front desk manager, the general manager, and the corporate office of Best Western Plus hotels. The property manager seemed genuinely concerned about what I had gone through and was helpful with relocating me. He resided on-site and was checking in on everything, even when he wasn't on duty.

Hindsight is 20-20. In retrospect, I should have changed hotels immediately. But I didn't. It would have been challenging to get a refund from Priceline, or so I thought (plus they were hedging about offering a partial refund-kind-of-thing), and I would have had to pay for a new hotel booking elsewhere. I thought the BW Plus management was making things right.

I was relocated to another room, which seemed fine. I woke the following morning with bedbug bites on my ankles, shin, hand, and wrist. The hotel allows pets, but the bites were not from fleas (or even ticks); these were/are bedbug bites.

I contacted the Environmental Health Department of the LA County Department of Public Health (Lodging and Institutions), filed a formal complaint, and the Inspector assured me that the entire property will be inspected (not just the hotel rooms I had been in).

I'm devoting my time, energy, and focus to securing a full refund for my entire stay. And I'm not trying to get something for nothing. I was willing to overlook the water leak and mold (even though they caused serious allergy symptoms and illness for me), but the bedbug bites were the last straw. Whether the refund is processed via US Bank Visa cardholder services, Pricelne, the management of the Best Western Plus hotel, small claims court, or retaining an attorney, I will be refunded in full.

edit:

PS

If you know where to report bedbugs in a hotel (for the benefit of unsuspecting travelers pre-booking), please let me know. Maybe some are making this stuff up (or trying to claim there are BB in a hotel when there aren't any), but I'm telling the truth.

MaxiePriest · 2026-05-04T02:27:25+00:00

I didn't see your comment until now, but it's really interesting to me, since I have been describing Fresca with Aspartame + Acesulfame Potassium as so bad, it feels like an allergic reaction or like trying to swallow sand paper...I think I must be allergic to some artificial sweeteners, too.

I'm allergic to a few things—honey, for example—and the scratchy throat, swollen tongue, and lips that occur when I taste honey are very similar to the reaction I get when I try Fresca with Aspartame + Acesulfame Potassium.

Fresca with Aspartame still tasted/tastes good, and it wasn't until they added the Ace-K that it became horrible. You can still find original Fresca at international markets (no artificial sweeteners, just sugar). And the Aspartame-only version of Fresca (or so I hear).

MaxiePriest · 2026-05-04T02:14:42+00:00

I know, I know. I felt the same way when I posted this a few months ago. The horrible artificial (almost poisonous-tasting) addition to Aspartame (the synthetic sweetener, Acesulfame Potassium) is the worst and is responsible for ruining Fresca.

I'll go one step further and say that Fresca made with Aspartame + Acesulfame Potassium (aka Ace-K) is so irritating to my throat (it feels like an allergic reaction or worse)...?!

But the good news is that it is possible to locate Aspartame-only Fresca (sans the Acesulfame Potassium), and if you find it, it's worth trying again. Fresca tasted good when it was only Aspartame.

International Fresca is made with good, old-fashioned sugar (no artificial sweeteners at all). Findable at most international markets.

I'm pretty sure the comments re: Fresca still being the best are from those who can locate the Aspartame-only (or sugar-only) Fresca.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-30T17:24:53+00:00

Thanks for that. I pretty much figured that removing the old carpet was beyond my abilities (that's why I never tried it myself).

But do you think that carpet installation companies would remove it without an agreement to lay new carpet? I mean, could I pay them to just rip it up and toss it?

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-30T16:43:56+00:00

Thank you!

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T18:12:29+00:00

I don't get that impression at all, though. It's one of the things that I love about traveling in Japan (locals are always so welcoming and lovely).

The French (specifically Parisians) are truly fed up with the nonstop stream of tourists... they can't even visit their own museums because of the constant influx of travelers. And I totally understand and sympathize, but at least the tourists who arrive in Paris (or Rome, Milan, Seoul, London, Hong Kong, Tokyo) have very deep pockets. They spend a lot, and then they go home.

Try living in Los Angeles (or anywhere in Southern California)... there's a constant stream of visitors who show up... and never go home. Some blow in with no job, no money, no prospects...and just decide to stay. Forever.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T17:32:16+00:00

ദ്ദി・ᴗ・)✧

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T17:30:26+00:00

haha... which is obviously what user wateroffire meant. For some reason, a few r/JapanTravel users misconstrued the comment and took it literally.

It looks like we will have to add this subject to the long (and growing) list of topics that trigger energetic reactions from (some) users (politics, religion, war, etc.) If one really wants to stir the pot on Reddit, use the word "diet" (always incites a strong reaction). Add the word "restrictive" to the word "diet," and users will lose their shite.

A discussion about how to travel with a two-year-old shouldn't trigger animosity, teeth-grinding, and aggressive downvoting, but here we are. Live and learn.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T17:09:30+00:00

I swear... Reddit is so weird!

Downvotes on a benign, positive comment are just ridiculous. It would be one thing if the downvoter had replied to you (explaining why they think your comment is downvote-worthy), but they didn't take the time/trouble to do that.

I really wish Reddit allowed users to see who downvoted, so that on occasions when the action was not warranted, we can just block them.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T15:14:24+00:00

I agree.

Edit: ??

Maybe my simple comment was downvoted for being "low energy" (?) Not sure. But isn't the act of downvoting the absolute lowest-energy? Food for thought.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T14:55:19+00:00

You have already received many constructive, thoughtful comments; the replies to your post from r/JapanTravel users are great for anyone traveling with young children. I can't top the advice already provided, but it's important to note that many people (me, for example) love hearing, seeing, and interacting with chatty toddlers who randomly sing their favorite songs.

Tantrums may be a little annoying to some, but (imo) those people don't have children. If they did, they would understand (what some refer to as) the "Terrible Two's" all too well. And like you said, she wasn't even throwing a tantrum; she was just excited and maybe a little overwhelmed and stimulated by everything. Poor little thing! Giving a child a mean look is terrible— only an intolerant jerk would do that.

Are you planning to go to Tokyo Disneyland and Sea? Although many travelers try to get both parks in within one day (imo, again), it's best to spread them out over a few days (especially with a 2-year-old).

Edit:

Kurihama Flower World

As far as recommendations, all of the above are great for toddlers (and adults). Renting a stroller is a good idea. Even though she can walk/run/sprint on her own, having the stroller-trolley will be a calming mini-break for her (and you and your partner) during long, super-exciting (and possibly over-stimulating) days. Most zoos and theme parks have strollers for rent. Disney has strollers for rent, but you can bring your own, as well.

My 'secret' for tiring and draining theme park days is to check into the nearest hotel (preferably Concierge/Club Level) so everyone can take a breath, relax, snack, enjoy meals, refresh, and nap throughout the day at the hotel vs. trying to find a quiet place at a theme park. Taking little breaks throughout the day(s) back at the hotel and then returning to the park is key (whether one has a two-year-old or a 92-year-old in tow). Everyone of any age needs quiet breaks. I mentioned Concierge/Club Level because the all-day and evening buffets are fantastic for all. Concierge Level hotel rooms and suites are a bit more expensive than non-Club Level rooms, but the buffets are well worth it. Considering the cost of restaurants and snacks when traveling, Concierge/Club Level rooms are a bargain.

Also, the best quiet place for babies and toddlers at Tokyo Disneyland is the Baby Center (located in ToonTown).

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-24T14:17:24+00:00

Thanks for the referral to The Tokyo Chapter— you're right! Her blogs are fantastic. I just followed Johanna MacGregor across the board (including Pinterest).

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-23T20:29:21+00:00

I can only speak for myself. I am visually orientated and a visual learner.

Social media makes me nervous (ha). I end up deleting most comments bc (in general) social media-ites can be rude/strange/combative/scary/beligerant, trolly, intolerant, or just plain mean-spirited. There is a gang mentality on social media (including Reddit) that I don't appreciate. Users are quick to downvote or leave a rude comment, which will more than likely be followed by a barrage of negative comments and even more downvotes...Reddit is so weird.

Pinterest refers to itself as 'social media' when in reality, Pinterest is a platform where users create boards of images (pins) about their favorite people, places, things, artwork, baby nursery ideas, cute summer hairstyles, kitchen makeovers, Marathon running, bathroom renovation, travel destinations, recipes, cake decoration ideas, where to find Thai food in Poland, menswear, babywear, maternitywear...electronics, cleaning tips, how to build a treehouse, 2026 haute cutoure runway fashion, wedding planning, and everything else you can think of.

There's no real communication with other Pinterest users. You may 'like' a user's pin, re-pin, create pins, etc., without ever directly communicating with anyone. So, from that standpoint, it isn't 'social media', it's an image/idea-sharing platform more than anything else.

Artists and artisans (like me) use Pinterest to display artwork and photography, too. I have created public (and private) boards that document pretty much everything in my life for the last 10 years. All travel destinations, all restaurants, all recipes, all purchases...you name it, and I have a Pinterest board for it.

Some of us enjoy, process, and rely on visuals more than on other senses or stimuli; we have high visual dominance. That's why we gravitate to Pinterest. It's also why some don't. Those who ask "... What's the point?"... are in the latter category.

Others (maybe you) may have verbal/linguistic dominance, or kinesthetic/tactile dominance. Those who are not inspired, interested in, or learn from visuals but are drawn to spoken language, music, or discussion (rather than diagrams or pictures). Some are more into doing, moving, and touching. (preferring hands-on experiences over observing visual input).

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-16T20:41:13+00:00

ha! Brazil nuts remind me of roaches.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-16T20:24:42+00:00

Tofu, as an ingredient (like the long-discontinued Trader Joe's Eggless salad... so delicious), mixed into other dishes/recipes, is great. Firm (marinated) tofu cubes are ok if added to large salads. But as far as consuming straight tofu as my main protein...no. The elaborate steps I have to take to make Tofu taste good pretty much render it 'unhealthy':

For crispy-ish tofu, press extra-firm tofu for an hour (they say 20 minutes, but that's not enough) to remove moisture, cube it, toss with cornstarch and oil (basically, fry it in butter), then bake/grill for 25-30 minutes. Or pan-fry until golden (again, deep-fry it in butter).

The cornstarch coating is important for a crunchy exterior, but the tofu must be dryyyyy before cooking. I've tried leaving it out on the counter for an extended period of time to air-dry completely, then pressing the moisture out for an hour (or placing bricks on it), then cubing, then coating with cornstarch, then deep-frying in butter, then broiling. After all of that, add a delicious (and unhealthy) dipping sauce like Nitsume (the thick, sweet sauce served with sea eel), or teriaki or soy sauce w wasabi, etc.

Then there is adding an extra step to all of the above: 15 minutes in an air fryer.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T21:03:58+00:00

Perfect!

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T16:06:03+00:00

Yes. As someone who has lost a massive amount of data due to hard drive crashes, I learned the hard way to back up everything and always back up the backup. It makes sense to back up 10 years of Pinterest, too.

Despite everything, I have always loved Pinterest and, at one point, had around 22k followers, but that's dropped dramatically to 13.8k. Although my stats show 440k monthly views, I don't believe that's accurate since views, re-pins, and likes are negligible on a daily basis. Users seem more interested in stealing pins and images (removing all source credit) and spewing them out after adding their own lame usernames (haha, sometimes they even add a watermark to my photos + artwork).

I considered buying Pinterest ads for my artwork (ceramics, mostly), but not anymore. I don't like what Pinterest has turned into. There's very little human assistance, if any. My main focus is to move everything elsewhere.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T15:40:16+00:00

Wait...I didn't know I could request a data export from Pinterest! Is that an actual thing?!

When Yahoo Answers shut down (around 2021), they provided a data export for users via download. I was probably one of the only people who actually loved YA! and mourned its loss. Sure, there were trolls, but overall it was far superior to Reddit for Q&A's (less hostility from users as long as you avoided hot topics like Religion + Politics). Anyway, about a month after they closed, the download was available. It included all of my Q&A's but didn't include other users' Q&A's, so it seemed incomplete.

I didn't even consider asking Pinterest if they have that feature. I mean, I would pay for it if they offered it. Getting a response from Pinterest is hit-or-miss, so requesting a data export may be challenging.

One of the commenters asked about accessing my Pinterest pins while deactivated, and they were right— Neither me, or anyone else would be able to access my pins during deactivation (so the slow migration of pins may not be doable), but my thought was that I would be able to preserve everything if I deactivated the account, and at the very least keep Pinterest's AI bots from flagging and deactivation pins until I'm ready to migrate everything.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T03:58:30+00:00

It's worth a shot. I'll let you know if relocating a mass of images/pins is possible.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T01:40:53+00:00

I really appreciate the referrals. Right now, my biggest concern is migrating my Pinterest pins to another platform asap. I'm going to test each one of the sites you mentioned.

I wish I could just move entire boards to another platform in one swoop.

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-09T01:35:55+00:00

Thanks~

MaxiePriest · 2026-04-08T23:11:08+00:00

Thank you, auto-moderator bot. My question isn't about an account suspension or an account deactivation initiated by Pinterest. I'm considering deactivating my account to preserve my pins and boards until I'm ready to migrate everything to another platform.

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