In contrary to common accommodation in which your daily routine is set and managed by someone else, self-catering is all about being your own boss and the freedom that comes with it. The practice of renting a fully furnished holiday home is also known as self-catering accommodation in which you rent an accommodation unit, typically a villa or cottage for the entire duration of your stay.
Because the unit comes fully furnished you can easily cater for your needs from the obvious sleeping arrangement to the less obvious, food preparation. If you are considering such holiday this year, regardless of the area, there are a few tips that can make your vacation even better.
Book Well Ahead – Finding a suitable holiday home is not rocket science, however unlike hotels which feature many floors and many rooms, a certain holiday home can only accommodate one party at a single time. Do not take too long to make your booking as popular destinations are often reserved a year ahead. Leaving a deposit will secure your booking whether you have booked privately or using a travel agent.
Research The Local Area – Self-catering holiday duration tends to be slightly longer compared to traditional vacation. It is not unheard of for parties to rent a holiday home for weeks during the summer period. Therefore you will find it useful to reside in an area that can keep you entertained should you wish to explore the area. Find out about local markets, popular local event during your stay and other local attractions should you wish to take a break from putting your feet up.
Getting To Your Self-Catering – In many cases it might be as simple as calling a local taxi to drive you to your holiday home, in other cases in particular when rural locations are concerned, it might prove more challenging. After you have made your booking, ensure that you have made appropriate plans to transfer your party to your rental home. Avoid having to start a relaxing holiday by getting stressed over transfer services.
When To Check In and Out – It is important that you listen to the owners request when it comes to check in and check out times. If you arrive too early, the property might not be ready or even still occupied and if you take too long to vacate, you might be holding off the next party. The time in between occupancies is when the property is cleaned and maintained.
Don’t Avoid Must-Dos – When setting off to a self-catering accommodation, there are certain must dos that you should do at least once. Start by preparing a meal for your party using local foods and if possible one that is based on a local dish. At least once, get in the morning without an alarm and at your own leisure. Many rental properties feature an onsite private pool, be sure to get plenty of use out of it.
Enjoy your holiday this year wherever you go.
Written by AffairTravel Ltd. Holiday villa travel agents offering luxury self-catering in Croatia, in France and in Corsica. Affair Travel is ABTA and ATOL protected.