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if you can spot this scam

@johnsfinancetips

2.3M followers · usually 37.7K views a post

Views

200.8K

Likes

8.1K

Comments

110

327

Why it worked

The video taps into a common consumer frustration with hidden fees, using a relatable scenario and a slightly exaggerated tone to highlight the issue. The comparison to other hotel chains and the direct address to the audience encourage engagement in the comments.

Summary

The creator questions Marriott's "destination fee," which adds $70 to a two-night stay, arguing it's a "junk fee" since it's not waived for elite members or award nights, unlike other hotel chains. They highlight that while the fee is presented as a credit, it forces guests to spend money at the hotel.

Structure

1Introduction to spotting a scam
2Booking a room at Marriott
3Inquiry about a "destination fee"
4Explanation of the fee as a credit
5Comparison to other hotel chains
6Conclusion that Marriott's fee is a "junk fee"

Product placement

The video discusses Marriott's "destination fee" and compares it to fees from Hilton and Hyde.

Call to action

let me know in the comment section down below what's the highest you paid for a junk fee

On-screen text

if you can spot this scam hi Marriott I would like to book two nights here please okay that would be $161 cash or card it says here there's a destination fee what's that oh it's like a resort fee but is this a resort no so then why is it here then you told me the price for two nights was $161 now I have to pay you an additional $70 on top of it for a destination fee sounds to me like a classic bait and switch junk fee no no no no no we would never further take advantage of a customers to deliver more shareholder value you see this destination fee only lets you win it's actually $35 per day so it's $70 for your total stay however for this you get a $70 food and beverage credit you can use and we even give you a free city map wait wait so I pay you $70 and then you give me $70 back in a food beverage credit but what if I don't wanna buy $70 worth of food beverage from you can I have my money back no of course not this is how we get you I mean I mean deliver value value Mr Customer this right here folks is a destination junk fee other hotel chains like Hilton and Hyde also have them however they will waive them for higher tier elite stays or on award nights Marriott will not do that you are gonna be stuck paying this regardless let me know in the comment section down below what's the highest you paid for a junk fee

Original caption

Hotel junk fees anyone?! #fees