Blue Fin/Key Lantern
What's the deal with the Blue Fin and Key Lantern motels? I've been looking for hotel rooms for this December and I noticed that they're offering prices way way below everyone else: $120 vs $350 or more. BUT you cannot make a reservation online. You have to make the reservation by phone, where you have to tell them your credit card number.
I'm trying to figure out what the catch is here: why are they so much cheaper, but why can't you make online reservations? Are they a scam? A roach motel? The Bates Motel?
It’s understandable to be cautious when you come across prices that are significantly lower than others, especially if they require you to call in your reservation and provide sensitive information like your credit card number. Here’s a breakdown of what might be going on with the Blue Fin and Key Lantern motels in Islamorada:
1. Low Prices Can Be Legitimate – There could be a few reasons why these motels are offering prices that are much lower than their competitors:
- Off-Season or Budget-Friendly Motels: Some motels, especially those in less touristy or more budget-friendly areas, often offer lower rates to attract guests during off-peak seasons. Islamorada, while beautiful, can sometimes have motels that cater to a more budget-conscious traveler, especially if they aren’t located right on the water or in prime tourist areas.
- Limited Amenities: These motels might have fewer amenities or older accommodations, which can significantly reduce the price. They may offer basic rooms without many of the features found in more expensive resorts or hotels, such as pools, high-end dining, or large rooms.
- Private, Smaller Operations: Many small, independently owned motels offer discounts, but they don’t always have the resources or systems in place to allow for online reservations. Calling directly allows them to manage bookings in a way that suits their business model.
2. Why You Can’t Book Online – The fact that you can't make online reservations and have to call directly might be a red flag for some people, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a scam. Here's why this might be the case:
- Lack of Online Booking Infrastructure: Some small or independently owned motels don’t have the budget or need for a sophisticated online booking system. They might rely on direct communication with guests to secure bookings, which could be a reason why you must call. This is more common with family-run motels that prioritize simplicity and personal interaction.
- Cash-Only or Phone-Only Policies: Some motels, especially older ones or those in more remote areas, may have phone-only booking policies to reduce the overhead of online payment processing or to control their business more directly. This could also be the case if they’re in a region with fluctuating seasonal demand.
- Security Concerns or Credit Card Processing Fees: The motel might not want to deal with third-party reservation services that take a commission or the complexities of securing payments online, so they might require direct phone bookings and ask for credit card details over the phone.
3. Are They a Scam? – It's hard to say definitively whether these motels are a scam without more information. However, there are a few things you can do to check their legitimacy:
- Check Reviews: Look for online reviews on trusted platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, or Yelp. See what past guests have to say. If there are consistent complaints about cleanliness, safety, or poor service, that’s a red flag.
- Verify Their Contact Information: Call the number provided and ask about the booking process, payment options, and room details. Legitimate businesses should have a clear and professional approach to customer service.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or the person on the phone seems unwilling to answer questions or provide details, it’s better to look elsewhere.
- Check for Certifications: If they’re a reputable motel, they may have some sort of local tourism certification or be listed on official Florida tourism websites. This could help confirm that they’re a legitimate operation.
4. What You Should Do Next: If you’re still interested in booking at either the Blue Fin or Key Lantern, here are a few steps you can take:
- Call them and ask specific questions about the room rates, policies, and amenities. Be sure to get a full breakdown of any fees or deposits you might be required to pay.
- Ask if they have any kind of cancellation policy, and if they accept other payment methods, such as a credit card reservation via email or through an external payment system.
- If the prices seem too good to be true and you’re unsure about the quality, consider booking a more well-known hotel nearby for peace of mind. Islamorada has plenty of hotels, ranging from budget to high-end, and you might find better value for a similar price.
Conclusion: While the pricing and the need to call directly may raise some concerns, this doesn’t necessarily make the motels a scam. They could just be smaller, more budget-oriented properties. However, it’s important to do your due diligence by checking reviews and contacting them directly to ensure a safe and pleasant stay.
