Holiday cottages
A holiday cottage will give you an excellent base to explore any area. It seems once tried holiday cottages become very popular and many families go on this type of holiday every year. Cottages are normally rented out through agencies that handle all the Administration and bookings. You will find every cottage you rent will always be different; most are kept very well indeed.
Most cottages are rented from Saturday to Saturday, it is normal to arrive during the mid afternoon and leave early in the mornings. This allows time for the owner or caretaker to clean the cottage properly. The cost of renting a cottage is not a good indication of what the cottage will be like or how well it is kept. This is mainly due to the area it is in and the time of year that the cottage is rented. Because of the Internet it is much easier to find a cottage, which will suit your needs. With nearly all cottages nowadays you can see a variety of pictures inside and outside, remember these are often the best pictures. On some websites you'll see comments from other people who have visited the cottage, which will give you a good idea of whether this place will suit you.
Before booking always check out that the area has what you're looking for, some cottages are in the middle of nowhere which can be wonderful if you're not looking for adventure or activities but maybe a bit quiet with some families. In general you will need to book well in advance of your holiday, some of the best cottages are often booked up a year in advance!
Do not presume that everything is included in the price. Always read carefully what is offered and what is included in the price, with some cottages everything is included with others it seems that there are all sorts of extras.
To get the most of your money it is best to book cottages in less popular areas and at the quieter times of year. Most places tend to not rent the property out rather than rent them out at very low prices. Be careful going to cottages which have no deposit offers, they often look very attractive and good value for money but if you have to cancel your holiday you could lose everything.
You should be given detailed directions how to get your cottage and where the keys will be kept. Always read this carefully before you leave, often people can be so excited about their holiday that when they get there they find they have not read something which can lead to a delay of several hours into getting into the cottage.
If you have a problem with the cottage or need some help never be afraid to phone the telephone numbers, which will be left in the cottage. If anything goes wrong get help straight away don't leave it until it gets worse. When you arrive always find the information pack, which is in every cottage. Make sure you know where the local hospital or doctor's surgery is just in case. And always remember to take your mobile phone charger with you!
This may seem obvious but it's worth mentioning, check the weather for the next week before you leave, as is nothing worse than having no clothes or rainy weather. Lastly make sure you enjoy your holiday.
