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1. Decide on the type of accommodation
Going on holiday doesn’t have to mean going to a hotel. There are many types of holiday accommodation, each suited to specific activities and groups of people. While hotels offer the most standard features, guest houses can be much more intimate and private, self-catering accommodation gives you more freedom and hostels can be cheaper and more fun for young travellers. Pick the right type for your budget and needs.
2. Research online
Before you look at specific establishments, do some online research into standard prices and types of accommodation at your holiday destination. You will quickly discover if some establishments are overcharging and if the area is dominated by one style of accommodation. Once you have established these points, have a look at specific offerings that look reasonable. Be sure to read as many online reviews by past guests as you can; they will give you a good sense of whether the promises made by the establishment owner are true.
3. Look at the services
Every establishment offers a unique range of services, so make sure you read carefully to see what is available at your chosen accommodation. Compare the same establishment’s listings on several sites to make sure that the offerings remain consistent; discrepancies may indicate problems or variable service. Make sure that the services offered correspond to the type of accommodation – a bed and breakfast is required to serve breakfast to you every morning, for example. In addition, look where the establishment is situated. Is it close to transport, tourist attractions and other services, or is it located inconveniently far away from the main sights?
4. Study the policies
Once you are happy with your chosen establishment, have a look at their rules and policies, specifically on cancellation, check-in times and payment. If you are forced to cancel your holiday, will you get a reasonable refund on your deposit? Can you come and go as you please, or do you have to arrive and vacate your room at a specific time? Is there a night-time curfew? Do you pay a deposit to secure your place? Must you settle your account upfront or only after your stay? These questions should be answered clearly on the accommodation’s website or in their online listings. If they aren’t, ask.
5. Ask questions
Any establishment owner should be more than happy to answer your questions by phone or email before you book. If you have any special requirements (like diet, pets or disability access), requests or questions, be sure to ask them before you make your reservation. If the response is unfriendly or vague, it could be a sign that the establishment is not right for you or that its claims are exaggerated. If everything you’ve seen and heard sounds good, go ahead and make the booking, safe in the knowledge that you’ve done the adequate research and that you’ll have a great holiday.
Anna Malczyk is the content manager for the University of Cape Town Guest House Management course. For more information contact Abby on 021 685 4775 or visit www.getsmarter.co.za
Going on holiday doesn’t have to mean going to a hotel. There are many types of holiday accommodation, each suited to specific activities and groups of people. While hotels offer the most standard features, guest houses can be much more intimate and private, self-catering accommodation gives you more freedom and hostels can be cheaper and more fun for young travellers. Pick the right type for your budget and needs.
2. Research online
Before you look at specific establishments, do some online research into standard prices and types of accommodation at your holiday destination. You will quickly discover if some establishments are overcharging and if the area is dominated by one style of accommodation. Once you have established these points, have a look at specific offerings that look reasonable. Be sure to read as many online reviews by past guests as you can; they will give you a good sense of whether the promises made by the establishment owner are true.
3. Look at the services
Every establishment offers a unique range of services, so make sure you read carefully to see what is available at your chosen accommodation. Compare the same establishment’s listings on several sites to make sure that the offerings remain consistent; discrepancies may indicate problems or variable service. Make sure that the services offered correspond to the type of accommodation – a bed and breakfast is required to serve breakfast to you every morning, for example. In addition, look where the establishment is situated. Is it close to transport, tourist attractions and other services, or is it located inconveniently far away from the main sights?
4. Study the policies
Once you are happy with your chosen establishment, have a look at their rules and policies, specifically on cancellation, check-in times and payment. If you are forced to cancel your holiday, will you get a reasonable refund on your deposit? Can you come and go as you please, or do you have to arrive and vacate your room at a specific time? Is there a night-time curfew? Do you pay a deposit to secure your place? Must you settle your account upfront or only after your stay? These questions should be answered clearly on the accommodation’s website or in their online listings. If they aren’t, ask.
5. Ask questions
Any establishment owner should be more than happy to answer your questions by phone or email before you book. If you have any special requirements (like diet, pets or disability access), requests or questions, be sure to ask them before you make your reservation. If the response is unfriendly or vague, it could be a sign that the establishment is not right for you or that its claims are exaggerated. If everything you’ve seen and heard sounds good, go ahead and make the booking, safe in the knowledge that you’ve done the adequate research and that you’ll have a great holiday.
Anna Malczyk is the content manager for the University of Cape Town Guest House Management course. For more information contact Abby on 021 685 4775 or visit www.getsmarter.co.za
