We stayed at a nice place outside of Lamai Beach last summer for about 10 days. We had booked it online in advance and it seemed that we got the best deal possible at the time with breakfast included. We met a older couple staying in the bungalow next to us. It seems that they paid only a fraction of what we paid. They were staying for 1 full month, but still, it was amazing how little they paid compared to us.

Is it better to book a place ahead online or wait until arrival to negotiate with a place? Or is it perhaps better to call places directly on the phone to negotiate? If you wait until arrival to find a place and th best rate, perhaps booking the first night in advance may be a good idea just to ensure you have accommodations setup when you arrive?

Any suggestions?

I think you answered your own question. Always cheaper to negotiate when you are there.

Have to remember that... But after travelling I am usually tired and not a strong negociator or I even forget to negociate...

We stayed at a nice place outside of Lamai Beach last summer for about 10 days. We had booked it online in advance and it seemed that we got the best deal possible at the time with breakfast included. We met a older couple staying in the bungalow next to us. It seems that they paid only a fraction of what we paid. They were staying for 1 full month, but still, it was amazing how little they paid compared to us.

Is it better to book a place ahead online or wait until arrival to negotiate with a place? Or is it perhaps better to call places directly on the phone to negotiate? If you wait until arrival to find a place and th best rate, perhaps booking the first night in advance may be a good idea just to ensure you have accommodations setup when you arrive?

Any suggestions?

For 1 month stay a minimum of 30% discount is normal, 50% if low season (of course no breakfast and not daily service..). That must be discussed via email and payment must be arranged becouse if you use a credit card on a web site the resort will loose a lot of money.