Thursday, March 17, 2011

10 tips to make sure you don’t spoil your own holidays


When it’s time to go on holidays, we all get excited with the idea of going away and sometimes certain details are forgotten. Unfortunately, those small details can ruin your holidays completely!  

Before you travel


Tip 1 – Always confirm your accommodation bookings

Most places will ask you for a deposit and send you a booking confirmation with your booking details. Keep a  printed copy of that document. If you have paid for accommodation but have no receipt or booking confirmation, ASK FOR ONE

Tip 2 – Make sure you know where you’re going 

You may be going to a different part of the country or a different part of the world, so ensure you have the address of your destination. No one likes long treks in the rain with heavy luggage or endless taxi rides after a 12 hour flight, so if necessary do not hesitate to ask for a map!

Tip 3 – Have an emergency contact number

Always ask for an emergency contact, in case you need access to a particular service or have questions about your stay.

On arrival 


Tip 4 – Read contracts carefully

Holiday accommodation providers provide documents or contracts for guests to read and sign. These documents will include the terms and conditions of a booking. Always read documents and contracts carefully to ensure all parties are clear on the terms of the booking. 

Tip 5 - Notify the property manager of any damage to the property when you check in

Advise the property manager of any existing damages to the property, if any, as early as possible. This will prevent you from paying for damages caused by previous guests.

During your stay



Tip 6 – Respect the house rules

If the property is non-smoking and pet free, then you cannot smoke and bring your animal friends. Avoid unnecessary fines by abiding to the rules imposed by your holiday accommodation provider.

Tip 7 – Ask your property manager about things to do and see in the area

There could be exciting stuff happening in the area where you’re staying. Property managers often know about events and activities in the area that you wouldn't want to miss!

Tip 8 – Do not lose your keys

Depending on where you’re staying, there might not always be a person on site 24/7 and you may have to wait for a long time until someone comes to your rescue. Be careful with your keys - not only will losing them make you very irritated but you may have to pay for a new set as replacement.

Tip 9 – Relax!!

The whole purpose of a holiday is to get away from everything and enjoy some downtime alone or with loved ones. Have a nice dinner at a fancy restaurant, go on a river cruise, go watch the penguins: do something special! And don’t forget to take pictures.

Before you leave

Tip 10 - Make sure you do not leave any important items behind

Imagine getting to the airport and realising you left your wallet at the accommodation which is 2 hours’ drive away. Sounds improbable? But it has happened before! Spare yourself all that stress and carefully inspect the property before you leave.

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