Booked this hotel from across the street (on my blackberry) when I learned I could not extend my existing booking at the Doubletree. Clicked on a link on what appeared to be the Radisson web page. Either Radisson is selling banner adds to Expedia, or Expedia has created clever landing pages that have the look and feel of a Radisson page.
The problem arose after I crossed the street to check in at the Radisson - only to be told my 'third party booking' was made for the following night (funny...considering I said 'today'). The lady was absolutely powerless to help me, explaining that my hotel was paid in full and she wouldn't be able to honour the preferred rate. I explained that it was never my intent to book through a third party and that the rate was of no consequence. She encouraged me to call them back to make the change. 20 more minutes of phone time later, Expedia assured me it was fixed (had to get the 'supervisor's approval to honour the same rate - at this point it was about the principal of the matter - ugh).
Returned to the desk...only to be told they couldn't yet see it on their systems. Asked if I could give them a credit card to check in while they awaited the 'paperwork' from Expedia (they have no ability to contact them ...despite their observation that 'people book through third parties inadvertently 'often'). By now I'm losing it and I risk being late for my corporate function. Finally Karen came to my rescue. She magically was able to take my credit card to allow me to check in - and just asked that I pop by later to ensure the room was charged appropriately. She upgraded me for my trouble. Room was beautiful, spacious, and very conveniently located to the Congress Centre (walking distance), Tim Horton's for my morning coffee - and gas station for my rental car. Overall it worked out. Feel that if this is the way of the future for hotels, they really have to improve their ability to communicate with the third parties though...I was two minutes away from walking out.