Everything French Travel Magazine November 2013 | Page 23

1. Know what to expect
Whilst there are many virtues and benefits of
renting a villa, you need to remember that one
of the main disadvantages is that there will not
be room service. You will need to shop and
prepare your own meals (which is for many
part of the appeal); wash your own dishes, do
your own washing – you will still experience
those everyday chores that the need to be
undertaken.
Ask lots of questions to make sure you know
what to expect – for example – how far is the
closest village/shop; are sheets and towels
provided/what other fees are there (e.g.
cleaning & security)
2. Know what you want
Be clear about your wish list and what’s not
negotiable. Where you want to be based? Do
you want to be village based or to be situated
in the countryside? How many bedrooms do
you need but also what configuration do you
need. Double or Twin? Do you want a pool (is
this negotiable?).
3. Know who you’re travelling with
Many travellers will plan to stay with family or
friends to share the costs of a villa, making it
possible to rent a somewhat more luxurious or
larger villa with better amenities. In situations
like this it is important to have very clear
communication about how arrangements will
work. Have a travel planning session to work
through the villa stay – for example who will
get the main bedroom with balcony and
ensuite – how will the bedroom selections be
made?

Agree how you want to travel together during
the villa stay – will each couple/family go
about their own explorations or will you all
explore together? What are the things you
want to see, do and experience during your
stay?
Remember to allocate someone to be the
main contact for the villa booking and
arrangements so that there is no confusion
and that all communication is centralised.
4. Book Early
Yes, perhaps booking last minute may mean
you grab a bargain, but your choice of dream
villas will be a lot less and perhaps non
existent if you are focused on a specific area.
We’d recommend booking at least 6 months in
advance, even more if you’re planning to
travel in high season (e.g European summer)
Allow yourself sufficient time to research and
book the right villa and be prepared to book
straight away when you find the right one.
5. Buy Travel Insurance
We all want the dream holiday to live up to our
expectations but sometimes things go wrong.
Make sure you book travel insurance as soon
as you make your first holiday booking
(whether that’s flights or accommodation) to
ensure you’re protected.
Talk to the insurer about what’s covered to
ensure you have the correct coverage for your
holiday.
Written by the Getaway Guru
www.getawayguru.com.au

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