subject: Reduce The Risk Of Gold Coast Holidays Accommodation Disaster [print this page] Gold Coast holidays are popular with Australians and overseas visitors alike. The famous tourist destination has a vast array of accommodation choices, but sadly, we often read disaster stories of people complaining about their holiday accommodation that did not turn out to be what it was supposed to be. This is nothing new - it happens every year. More often than not, it is the accommodation that is to blame. For example, a 'peaceful' holiday home turns out be on a busy road, or the expensive apartment that advertised ocean views ends up having a glimpse of the blue water from one corner of the balcony. Or perhaps there's the 'luxury' accommodation that has old and worn out decor, where the mattresses on the beds are concave.
The problem is, with the rise of the internet, many people are now booking independently rather than through tour operators. The smaller independent operators will often tell you that the benefits of booking through them is that the accommodation rented out is of a much higher standard than holiday makers could find through larger tour operators - and this is often the case. The other benefits are that it can often save you money and offer more choice.
But, the risks associated with booking this way are that if things go wrong, your options of receiving compensation or for settling the dispute are limited - especially if it happens in another country.
So how do you avoid the pitfalls of booking through independent operators?
Talk before booking. It is human nature that people will talk more candidly on a one-to-one basis that when writing the scripted prose for their website. You will get a gut feeling about whether or not they are being honest with you. When you call, have a list of questions ready about the property that you are most interested in, and then ask them to confirm in writing after the conversation.
Check Google Earth or Google maps. It is an extremely useful tool which allows you on most places to check a satellite picture of the property you are considering. A quick glance will point out any problems or eyesore conveniently left out of the brochure or website description.
Look for virtual tours. Occasionally, an accommodation provider will include virtual tours on their website of the individual properties available through them. Whilst photos may show only half the picture, it is hard for a virtual tour to lie.
Ask for guest reviews. Have a look on the accommodation website for an Guest Book that contains reviews from past guests. There really is no better way to collect a good idea about what past guests have experienced in the accommodation you are considering. Previous guests are usually fairly candid out their holiday accommodation experience.
Choose the ACTUAL apartment or holiday home in which you want to stay. That way you can be confident that your accommodation will have the exact style, amenities and position you are looking for. There are a few Gold Coast holidays accommodation providers that include photos of the individual apartments and holiday homes they rent, in order to give their potential guests a clear idea of what they will see when they arrive.
By following these simple guidelines, you will reduce the chances of experiencing any unpleasant surprises when you arrive at your Gold Coast holidays destination.
by: Fiona Lewis
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