While hotel rooms are the most common type of holiday accommodation, many people now prefer self-catering apartments for various reasons. Self catering highlands are usually larger and spacious enough for families and friends. They are also perfect for those who prefer privacy and a less crowded environment.
When traveling, a self-catering apartment is a great option for a number of reasons. Apart from being spacious, self-catering properties are generally more homely. Another advantage of self-catering is the freedom to plan your own itinerary. You can easily find a place that suits your travel style, budget, and personal tastes.
In essence, self-catering accommodation provides a home away from home. Clients rent the entire house rather than just a room. Self-catering accommodation can be used for a week-long vacation, a weekend getaway, or even a month-long stay.
Suppose you are not sure whether you should book a hotel or get a self-service apartment. The following are some of the advantages of self-catering accommodation.
It Allows You To Plan Your Own Itinerary
With self-catering accommodation, you can plan your trip the way you want to. You'll be able to set your own schedule and choose the activities you want to do. You can also use an itinerary template for planning meals and deciding on the best times to visit sights. You can even record your expenses and attach receipts to make your trip more organized. You'll be able to plan your entire holiday itinerary and save money as well.
Allows You To Prepare Your Own Meals
Apart from being more flexible, self-catering accommodation allows you to cook for yourself whenever you want. The freedom of preparing your own meals saves money and offers more freedom when it comes to planning your day's activities. Self-catering accommodation is also great for families with small children, who often wake up early in the morning and don't want to miss breakfast at the hotel. Self-catering accommodation also allows you to enjoy facilities that a hotel lacks, such as swimming pools, gyms, and well-equipped kitchens.
Great For a Large Group
Self-catering accommodation is a great option for larger groups of people. You can split the costs of additional food and activities with your group so that everyone can have their own meals. This option is ideal for anyone on a diet or who has specific dietary requirements. The freedom to choose the food you eat means that everyone can enjoy their vacation without worrying about what the local eateries serve. There are plenty of options available for self-catering accommodation, including apartments, cottages, and villas.
Different Feel
Unlike hotels, which are used to a certain type of design. Self-catering accommodation can come in different types of designs and styles. So if you are the type who prioritizes luxury, you will surely find a self-catering accommodation that meets your luxurious expectations.
In addition, if you are the type who is attached to your home style or design, you can easily find a self-catering accommodation that matches your home feeling. Whether you prefer bigger rooms, an open balcony, well-lit rooms, etc., you have the power to choose what you want.
What To Look Out For In A Self-catering Accommodation
It's important to know what to look for in self-catering accommodations to get the best value for your money.
Well Equipped Kitchen
If you are planning to cook and serve meals for your holiday guests, make sure that the kitchen is fully equipped and has enough seating. You'll find everything you need to make a simple breakfast, a gourmet meal for a large family, or an authentic Christmas dinner. In addition to that, many self-catering accommodation properties also have a dishwasher, coffee machines, and even American-style fridge freezers. So always check
Basic Amenities
Make sure to check the services offered and the basic amenities that the property has before making any commitment.
Also, make sure all amenities that will make your stay enjoyable are available and in working conditions. This is because even though some self-catering accommodation owners claim they have these amenities, they don't function well once you are in. This ends up creating big issues.
Here is a list of some of the standard amenities you should be on the lookout for;
Security
Your safety and security are extremely important when on holiday, especially if you are outside your state or country. So security is one of the most important things you need to consider before paying for a self-catering apartment. However, some self-catering apartment owners may not provide information about their security process online. But always make sure you get some level of assurance and even specific details where necessary.
When trying to examine the security of the place, some of the security measures to look out for include a 24-hour reception area, CCTV cameras, in-room safes, and uniform guards.
Parking Space
If you will be arriving with your car or you will be renting one while there, one thing you need to check is if the self-catering apartment offers secure and safe parking options.
Not having a proper parking facility will make logistics difficult for you and your family. Not only that, but it also exposes you to security threats. So make it a top priority when doing your search.
Comfortable Furnishings
Most self-catering apartments come fully furnished. So make sure the furniture is comfortable enough for you and your family, especially if you have kids with you. Remember, this is not your home, so it is best if you don't sacrifice luxury for comfort. Make sure everything from the sofa, bed, dining sets, kitchenware, etc., is excellent.
Self Catering apartments are a great way to enjoy a vacation or other out-of-town activities with family and loved ones. However, choosing a poor one can lead to a poor experience. So make sure you do adequate due diligence before settling for any facility.
When booking self-catering accommodation, you should also book ahead, especially if you are a large group.
Additionally, most self-catering properties usually come with free early check-in or late check-out. So you can take advantage of it.
