hioctane

Frankly, I've always gotten the same or better prices by booking directly with the hotel. Many times I've compared the prices and the direct booking option is either cheaper or the same price and always more flexible with no up-front payment

I rarely find that to be the case anymore. It used to be in the past though. Find us a case of a hotel that is cheaper for a future date direct from the hotel.

I find Orbitz cheaper (after their coupons - 5% back and constant 15% off promotions) than Agoda... although hotels are usually non refundable.