The terms used by travel agents and hotel chains are not universally understood. It is not uncommon to find that you are left disappointed by your accommodations, so it’s important to be wary of these hype words. Below are some things you should be aware of when looking for accommodation. You’ll also want to book in advance and understand the cancellation policy. When traveling to a new country, you can take advantage of discounts and last-minute deals at local hotels, but be sure to research all of your options before booking.
Guesthouses
One of the most significant differences between a guesthouse and a hotel is that a guesthouse is usually owned by a family. While a hotel is owned by a business, a foreign investor, or the local government, a guesthouse is typically family-owned and operated by its guests. As such, guest houses may be subject to varying regulations, but are typically not as rigid as hotels. They are ideal for travelers seeking a more laid-back atmosphere. In addition, guest houses may be family-run, so you may be sharing your lodging with the hosts and their children. For example, eggs may come from chickens, vegetables may be grown in a garden, and water may come from a local spring.
In addition to providing breakfast for guests, many guest houses offer various types of cuisine, from a continental breakfast to local fare. Many guest houses have kitchens, but these are usually communal because the establishments were originally built as family homes. You can even cook your own meals if you wish, although guest houses may not provide as much as a mid-tier hotel. In many cases, guests can request private rooms, but they may be shared with other guests.
Hotel chains
There is a growing divide between the best and worst hotel chains in the world. The list of best hotel chains is based on the percentage of properties that received a Certificate of Excellence. This percentage is sliced across three generations and is current as of first quarter 2022. Stacker’s analysis of the results highlights some of the best and worst hotel chains around the world. However, it is important to note that this does not necessarily reflect the views of the general public.
While it may be tempting to stick with your favorite hotel chain, it is important to remember that there are a number of other factors to consider before making your final decision. For example, cleanliness standards vary from one brand to the next, as well as free night credit extensions. Also, many hotels have cobranded credit cards and these cards offer temporary perks. However, if you are a frequent traveler, you should consider whether or not the brand you are using offers any special benefits.
Booking in advance
Booking hotels in advance can be very beneficial if you are travelling in peak seasons. By booking ahead, you can avoid the last minute rush and guarantee yourself a room. You also get peace of mind and can better plan your stay. Before you book your hotel, make sure you have a good idea of the cost and availability of the rooms in advance. This way, you will be able to save money and avoid any unpleasant surprises once you get there.
As far as hotel prices go, booking in advance is usually the cheapest option. Depending on your travel date, you can either book two months in advance or on the day of your departure. Choosing the best date to book your hotel is important, as booking late will only mean that you’ll be paying full price for the room. You can even book a room with extras if you book ahead of time. This can save you money, especially if you want a deluxe room.
Cancellation policy
When you are booking a hotel or traveling on a business trip, you should always check the cancellation policy of the provider. You may also want to check if a cancellation fee is included in the rate. You may be able to request a refund if you need to cancel your trip if the provider has a flexible cancellation policy. It is important to contact your travel provider directly for information on the cancellation process.
As travel has been disrupted by the COVID-19 virus, many hotel brands have extended their cancellation policies to include more flexible dates. Most hotels will allow you to make a change to your booking up to 24 hours in advance, but some might require more time. Cancellation policies changed around the world following the COVID-19 crisis, but the situation has mostly settled down. However, some hotel chains continue to prioritize flexibility in their cancellation policies. For example, many North American hotels offer flexible booking options to allow you to cancel without incurring any penalty. These policies will vary between hotel brands, so it is important to check their websites to ensure that you are not affected by a particular policy.