Booking your summer holiday is always exciting – especially after the restrictions of the last two years.
But no matter how eager you are to get away, there are key points you should always check, whether you’re new to self-catering properties or a seasoned self-catering holidaymaker.
Here’s our guide to 5 key questions to ask before booking your self-catering holiday cottage.
What is included?
It’s important always to check what is included in the booking rate. Most cottages these days include bed linen as standard but some still don’t provide towels so it’s important to make sure you now whether you need to bring your own.
Many self-catering properties provide a welcome pack – this can range from basic tea-making supplies to a full breakfast hamper. It’s a good idea to ask what’s in the pack in case you need to pick up some shopping on your way.
Is a deposit required?
Almost all holiday cottages ask for a deposit to be paid to secure your booking. The amount of the deposit varies from property to property but is typically between 20% and 50%. Some properties also request a damage or breakage deposit. This may be added to the cost of your booking and refunded after your trip or held in reserve on your card and released later.
What’s the cancellation policy?
As Covid continues to cause disruption it is essential that you k now what the cancellation policy is for any booking.
Many cottage owners now have separate cancellation clauses in relation to Covid (you can see Lock Cottage’s here). With the possibility of needing to cancel at the last-minute still quite likely make sure you know what you’re entitled to.
Location/travel
How are you going to get to your holiday cottage?
Do you need to get public transport? If so where is the nearest train station or bus stop?
If you are driving is there adequate parking?
This information should be easily available on the property website – if you can’t find it contact the cottage owner.
What are the house rules?
This is one of the most important questions to ask but one that people rarely think of. Different self-catering cottage owners have different preferences relating to what they will and won’t permit in their property.
Some allow pets, some are child-friendly, most are non-smoking. Almost all will have guidance on how they would like guests to leave the property at the end of their stay (for example beds stripped or left made, rubbish taken out etc.).
Always check whether a cottage is pet-friendly or pet-free – even if you don’t have pets you may need to ensure you book somewhere that hasn’t had dogs or cats inside. If travelling with children you should also check if there are any age restrictions, such as infants and toddlers being excluded – get this wrong and you could find your booking cancelled.
There are other things worth checking before you book a property, for example the kitchen inventory, proximity to attractions etc., but the five listed above are key.
If you have any questions about Lock Cottage’s cancellation policy, house rules or deposits get in touch or give us a call on 07918 400909.
コメント