1. Explore Your Options
First things first, you need to familiarise yourself with the myriad of options available. From the luxury of hotels, the communal feel of hostels, to the homely touch of a B&B, there’s something out there for every traveller. But, which one suits your style?
- Hotels: These can range from budget options to five-star luxury resorts. They’re great if you’re looking for amenities like daily housekeeping, room service, and often on-site restaurants or spas.
- Hostels: A favourite among budget and solo travellers. They offer shared dormitory-style rooms (though many also offer private rooms). They’re great for meeting fellow travellers and often have communal spaces like kitchens or lounges.
- Airbnb: This platform lets you rent unique homes from local hosts. This could be a spare room in someone’s house, a city-centre apartment, or even a whole villa!
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&B): These offer a more personal touch, where you stay in a room at someone’s house and, as the name suggests, are provided with breakfast in the morning.
- Guesthouses: Similar to B&Bs but usually slightly larger and might not offer breakfast.
- Homestays: This is where you stay with a local family in their home. It’s an excellent opportunity for a cultural exchange and to see the local way of life.
- Campsites: For those who love the great outdoors. This could be anything from pitching your tent in a field to more luxurious ‘glamping’ options.
Choosing the right type of accommodation depends on your budget, the kind of experience you’re after, and who you’re travelling with. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family on holiday, there’s something out there for everyone!
2. Discover The Booking Platforms
Each booking platform brings its own flair to the table. Knowing what each offers can help you find the best deals and accommodations that cater to your specific needs.
- Booking.com: This behemoth boasts a vast array of accommodation types, from hotels to guesthouses, and offers free cancellations for many listings. Their reviews are quite reliable and their Genius program offers great benefits to loyal customers.
- Agoda: Renowned in Asia, Agoda has special deals and offers, especially for Asian accommodations.
- Airbnb: Ideal for those seeking unique homes or experiences. From rooms to villas and from treehouses to castles, Airbnb has it all.
- Trip.com: This global platform is not just about hotels; they offer flight bookings, car rentals, and more.
- Hotels.com: Their loyalty programme is a gem, allowing you to earn free nights after multiple stays.
3. Smart Searching
Now that you’re well-acquainted with the options, let’s talk strategies. Whether you’re aiming for luxury or affordability, there are always deals out there waiting to be snagged. Tools like Google’s hotel search, Trivago or Kayak can help you compare prices across the board. Setting up price alerts or browsing in incognito mode can sometimes score you even sweeter deals!
4. Unravelling Reviews
While a picture might be worth a thousand words, when it comes to finding the perfect accommodation, reviews are worth their weight in gold. But, here’s a trick: look beyond the star ratings. Dive deep into the comments. Are there consistent complaints or praises about certain aspects? For example, many guests might rave about the breakfast but also mention bothersome street noise. This will give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
5. Eco-Friendly Examination
If you’re environmentally conscious, you might want to factor in the sustainability of your accommodation. Many places nowadays pride themselves on being eco-friendly. From hotels with solar panels to hostels recycling rainwater, the choices are endless. Look for certifications like the Green Key or EarthCheck to ensure you’re choosing a genuinely eco-friendly establishment. By supporting such establishments, you’re doing your bit for Mother Earth even while travelling.
6. Location, Location, Location!
Last but by no means least, always consider the location. It might be tempting to opt for that dirt-cheap place, but if it’s miles away from all the attractions or not near public transport, you might end up paying more in time and commuting costs. Additionally, ensure the area is safe, especially if you plan on returning late in the evening or exploring on foot. Always weigh the convenience of a place’s location against its price.
7. Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, after all the research and reviews, trust your gut. Sometimes, the vibe of a place just feels right. And remember, every trip is a learning experience. Even if you don’t get the perfect accommodation every time, you’ll be better equipped for the next journey.
So there you have it! Your roadmap to finding that dream place to stay on your next escapade. Armed with these tips, your next accommodation is bound to be nothing but perfect.
Safe travels!
