How can the man of the house enjoy a holiday on his own? If he has been awfully busy, he might just take a break from work or business to spend quality time with the family. If you are gifting him this holiday and would want to cut back on costs a bit, there is one well-guarded secret you should know: vacation homes.
These are perfect rentals that can provide you great comfort and savings, than hotel rooms. With the baby boomers up and about influencing tourism and eyeing extended holidays, what better way to capture their fancy than a home away from home that offers the convenience suitable even for elderly or multigenerational travelers!
But just like anything else in travel, don’t let go of your cash or enter into any contract until you are fully convinced you are getting what you want. Erika Kottie of Family Vacation Critic offers some tips on how to find one that will meet Dad’s and the family’s wish list in the post Renting a Vacation Home
“… the advantages of home rental are gaining attention and home rental veterans will tell you it’s the only way to go.
The ability to prepare meals and store food is a huge advantage for parents who tire of dragging their children to restaurants night after night…
Another big advantage to renting a home is that it allows families and combined families more face time…
Best news yet is that home rentals can be surprisingly affordable. With an array of beds, sofa beds, lofts and extra linens, homes can accommodate plenty of people … Factor in budget-friendly meals cooked in-house and bookshelves stocked with DVD’s and family games, and the savings can really add up.”
Kottie also cited a few advantages. There is a risk when you make the payments upon booking when you haven’t seen the home yet or if it exists at all. How will you get inside when, unlike a hotel, it has no 24-hour services? Thus, it is important that you carefully consider certain factors before making any payment. Here are some of those:
Will it work for you?
If you are traveling with the family or with another family for five days or longer, a vacation home is advantageous. You can cook most of your meals there so the cost of food will really be significantly lower. But if you are vacationing with just a couple of kids or for 2-4 days only, a smaller beachside resort cottage is a better option. Eating out is convenient and more sensible; cooking will be too much of a hassle.
How do you pick the right one?
There is huge selection available, particularly in popular destinations like Hawaii, Florida, the Caribbean, etc., but not each and every vacation home is designed to meet your needs. You need to book as early as possible as the best and most affordable ones get reserved fast.
Think about individual needs. Are there elderly or differently-abled who need special accessibility features or a room downstairs? Are very young children or dogs (if dad has a beloved pet) allowed? What about dad who is your guest of honor for the holiday, are there nearby attractions that will make his holiday something memorable – a place to enjoy water sports, fish, golf, ski, etc.?
Think too of conveniences? How far are the nearest groceries, gas station, restaurants? How many toilets and baths are there (this is important if you are traveling as a big group)? Are there facilities that in the premise (house and grounds) that will make your stay more fun such as a swimming pool, outdoor barbecue/grilling station, cabana, etc. What are the rules to observe while staying in the house and before leaving?
Asking the right questions
To decide if the vacation rental is suitable for you and the family needs, ask questions; never make an assumption. If there is a contract, read and understand each stipulation or clause. Ask about the price (and negotiate) of vacation rental and the other fees, schedules, cleanup and cancellation policy, as well as your liabilities. Ask for recent photos of the house parts, the grounds, the amenities, and the views. Check the location online for safety and other information, and get their contact numbers and addresses (including police, hospital, etc.), just in case, and validate them.
A vacation rental at the right price and location that meets your family needs can make all the difference in the quality of your family’s vacation and Father’s Day celebration. It can be a home away from home, and so much more with all the amenities it can offer, relaxing conveniences, the proximity to fun attractions and the chance to experience local culture. Make sure the vacation home you’re renting will be that. One tip to keep in mind, deal with credible companies or affiliates to lessen risk.
