91涩漫

If you鈥檝e ever tried to book a hotel in Montr茅al during a major event and found that preferred rates were suddenly unavailable, you鈥檝e likely encountered a blackout date. Within the Montreal Hotel Program (MOHP), blackout dates are a standard part of how hotel agreements operate鈥攁nd understanding them can help you avoid confusion and plan more effectively.

What Are Blackout Dates?

Blackout dates are specific periods during the year when participating hotels are not required to offer 91涩漫鈥檚 negotiated corporate rates. These dates are defined in advance within each hotel鈥檚 agreement and typically align with high-demand periods in the city.

Common examples include:

• Major events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix
• Holiday periods such as New Year鈥檚
• Large conferences or festivals that significantly increase hotel demand

Each MOHP hotel may designate up to 13 blackout dates per year, depending on their agreement.

What Does This Mean for You?

During blackout dates, the usual MOHP benefits, such as preferred rates and guaranteed availability within contracted room categories, may no longer apply. This can result in:

• Higher room rates than usual
• Limited availability at preferred hotels
• The need to explore alternative booking options

In these situations, bookings may need to be made outside of the standard MOHP process.

How to Book During Blackout Dates

If your travel falls within a blackout period, here鈥檚 how to navigate it:

• Confirm the blackout: Check the Travel Services website for the hotel鈥檚 listed blackout dates or contact the designated hotel representative.
• Document the situation: If the hotel confirms that the dates fall under a blackout period, ensure this is noted.
• Proceed with alternative booking: You may book the hotel as a non-catalogue item, following standard procurement and reimbursement guidelines.

This ensures transparency and compliance, even when booking outside the usual framework.

A Few Important Reminders

• MOHP contracts apply only to standard room categories. Upgrades (e.g., suites, deluxe rooms) are not covered and must be paid personally and expensed later.
• Incidentals (meals, parking, room service) are not included in purchase orders and should be handled separately through expense claims.
• Always use the designated hotel contacts listed on the Travel Services site to ensure you are receiving accurate information and the correct rates.

Planning Ahead

While blackout dates are unavoidable, early planning can make a significant difference. If you anticipate travel during peak periods, booking early or considering alternative dates or locations can help secure better options.