LE and hotel people look at these boards.

I have two rooms in mind, one with a cancellation policy, so I am not stuck! Did that at least a month in advance of visit, plan on being in the area in a few weeks. Similar situation happens in my area all the time. Also, see if you can book for at least one day at your fave hotel and just extend when you check in or switch locations. Pain in the arse, but could work v. canceling your whole trip.