As part of a package deal, Manitas and I stayed in the Ramada, Manchester - in a room that for two of us, for one night, would normally have cost £115 not including breakfast which was an extra £15. Breakfast comprised a help yourself buffet of croissant and rolls, tea and coffee. And this was in 1995!

Just because a place has a big name, doesn't mean you'll get big name service. If you get bookings just because you're called the Hilton, then you don't really need to worry about little things like quality of service or value for money.

If your company is looking to make savings, suggest to them that they find a cheaper hotel to send deligates to, rather than make half the staff redundant.

LTS