Travelocity's New 'Top Secret Hotels' Mobile App

Hotel Chatter: Travelocity has been enabling guests to book hotel rooms on the go since 2008 when they first introduced their iPhone application. But with all the new apps on the mobile booking scene recently like Expedia and HotelTonight, Travelocity has upped the ante by adding their Top Secret Hotels service to the app.

Top Secret Hotels allow guests to book hotel rooms at steep discounts (up to 55 percent off) but without knowing the hotel name until after their credit card has been charged. We did this last year and stayed at the Planet Hollywood Hotel in Vegas for just $57.

Travelocity added the service to their app after realizing that 60 percent of their iPhone app bookings are for same-day stays. Now with Top Secret Hotels, travelers can get lower rates for these same-day stays without the hassle of bidding and waiting to see if their bid has been accepted.

Of course, you should always manage your expectations when blind-booking like this--i.e. don't expect to get the Ritz-Carlton for $57--but it is a great option for a last-minute stay or a quick visit.