HOTELS & VACATION RENTALS
Accommodations are easily the biggest travel expense behind flights (and if you are using points for flights, then the largest). We do not point hack for hotels on the whole. You can read more about that decision here, but mainly due to concerns on local impact and the lack of chain hotels in the areas we frequent. Even eschewing points overall, we have found several hacks over the years to make it a bit cheaper and more manageable.
Two quick caveats:
1. Do not allow accommodations to overwhelm you.
2. NEVER compromise on safety.
Let's find the perfect place for your holiday
First, book early. This is especially important during high season or in popular places. The travel demand is back post Covid, aided by pent up demand and postponed trips. And because some hotels were forced to closed, available beds are down a bit, too.
​
More people add to the complexity of the booking. The type of accomodation that you require as a family simply isn't as readily available as the standard double occupancy room. While the US is pretty loose about the number of people, EU hotels are sticklers. Where I would sometimes wait until a week before or even the day of to book a room when traveling as a couple, I wouldn't risk it now. I want to make sure that we have a room or home that will accomodate our needs.
Sleep is important at every age, but never so important as with little ones. A bad night of sleep for a toddler typically means a disastrous day ahead with meltdowns, tears, and grumpiness. As soon as I have flights in place, accomodations are next on the planning list.
What type of property is best for you?
Different property types have different strengths.
Large hotel chains offer the benefit of 24-hour check-in, a large quantity of rooms, and the potential to earn loyalty points. There is often a breakfast (free or paid) which is convenient to get a start on a long day. Concierge services are also a nice perk at a larger establishment. Other perks include pools, gyms, business centers, and generous cancellation policies. The downside is that these types of hotels tend to keep little money in the commnity and can feel a bit sterile. If you are getting in late, have points to spend, and aren't looking to self-cater, this might be the right fit for you.
Independent hotels or bed & breakfasts can range from a handful of rooms to several dozen. These spots may offer some of the ammenities of a large hotel, but with more personalized service. There may not be a dedicated concierge service, but the owner-operators are embedded in the local community and can make dinner reservations or pull a few strings to get tickets. Breakfast is still often an option and occasionally you may find a kitchenette for some very light food prep. These businesses are truly local and the majority of dollars spent here are invested back into the community. This is a great fit for those wanting a more intimate experience with the conviences of a larger chain
Apartment or home rentals are a good option for longer stays or for larger groups. Because these properties may offer multiple bedrooms, the occupancy rates are much higher than a traditional hotel. The flexibility of having a kitchen can save travelers a good chunk of change and can be a respite for young families or those with sensory difficulties that do not have the stamina for frequent dining out.
Many properties allow for and discount longer stays which can allow travelers to immerse themselves in the community. But home rentals have caused both delight and consternation as locals are priced out of the housing market due to this type of rental. Look for a licensing number to ensure the property is registered. Check to see how the property is being leased - is it a sole proprietor that will directly benefit or a large agregator that might be snapping up housing.
These properties have a few drawbacks. They may receive less scrutiny - be sure to read reviews thoroughly and ask plenty of questions. You often have to prepay a sizeable portion of the rental cost if not all which can be tough when you are booking six months or more out. Properties offer little in the way of flexibility or cancellation options although this has been improving in the post Covid world.
​
Unusual setups like glamping or farm stays are an experience in themselves. These aren't just accommodations, they are also attractions that can vary from mucking stalls to luxury stays. These sorts of adventures attract very clear interests.