If you’re getting ready to take a much awaited for holiday or you’re off on a business trip, you’ll want to consider a number of factors before selecting your hotel.
We all know that your accommodation during a vacation can make or break the trip. A good hotel can make your holiday all the more enjoyable, but on the opposite end of the scale, a less than great hotel is almost guaranteed to but a dampener on your vacation.
In order to guarantee that you have the best stay possible, it’s important that you take a few things into account.
Let’s go over the top 10 things to consider when you are selecting a hotel.
Location
First, make sure that you consider the location of the hotel. Is it close to all the places you plan to visit? Is it easily accessible? Both are important for a good trip.
The perfect location is important and can vary depending on what you want from your trip. Love to be amongst the nightlife and hustle and bustle of a busy city? A hotel located close to all of this is ideal – especially if you want to save on taxi journeys when you do venture away from the hotel!
Or would you prefer some peace and quiet, away from it all? There is nothing worse than staying in a hotel in a noisy city location when all you want is to relax! Choose wisely and know the exact location you want to stay in.
Parking
Also check out the parking situation. Is parking provided on site or will you have to park and walk? Also, what fees are associated with this? Parking costs can add up over the length of your stay so be careful to factor this in if you are taking your car.
Additional Fees
Be sure to look into other additional fees you may end up paying while you stay. Is Internet included or an added extra? This is the most common add-on fee to consider, so be sure you don’t overlook it if you know you need to stay connected during your stay.
Other common add-on fees that may take you by surprise include early check in, mini-fridge use, gym usage, luggage holding and towel replacement costs. Don’t get caught out!
Star Rating
You’ll want to check out the star rating of any hotel you stay in and make sure it is up to par. Comparing a few different hotel options with each other for their star rating can help you make a wise decision.
A hotels star rating shouldn’t always be a deciding factor when choosing a hotel, but it is good to consider.
Onsite Services
You’ll also want to be sure that you check onsite services as well.
Does the hotel offer fitness or pool facilities? Maybe there is a golf course or massage studio provided. All of these can enrich your trip if you are looking for them and help to make your stay a little more comfortable.
Meal Options
Be sure to inquire whether breakfast is complimentary and offered, and if not, what the fee is. You may also want to see what restaurant options are onsite at the hotel if you’d prefer not to have to go out to eat every evening.
Or, you may see if a kitchenette suite is available if you prefer to dine from the comfort of your hotel room.
Family Accommodations
If you are taking your family on a trip, you’ll definitely want to see how family friendly the hotel is. If you want your kids to enjoy their stay, this is a must.
Pet-Friendly
If you have a pet you’d like to bring on the trip, this is the next thing to look into as well. More and more hotels are starting to cater towards the pet crowd, so find an option that does if you wish to bring your furry friend!
Unique Versus Reliable
You’ll also want to decide if you’d rather go with a smaller, locally owned hotel that offers a unique feel versus a chain hotel that you can rely on. Each has their own pros and cons, so this will be a personal decision.
Reviews
Finally, don’t overlook the reviews. Read through a few to get a feel for the thoughts and opinions of those who have already stayed at that hotel.
