Here are a few top tips for you to consider when choosing a place for you and your loved ones to go for holidays in the UK.
Choose Independent
While this recommendation might not surprise you that much considering that it’s right up my alley, but the truth is independent holiday companies offer some of the best holiday packages money can buy. Whether it’s a trip to experience downtown London or a Harry Potter experience, booking through an agency is a great way to make your vacation planning easy. Independent companies can’t afford negative reviews, which is why most owners will have the best interests of the customer, which is you, at the core of their daily activities. As such, you can rest assured that an independent holiday company will do its best to make sure that its operations are world-class. If you want to go independent then why not choose a My Hotel Break Voucher and decide where you want to go down the line.
Book Direct
Always make sure that you book direct, and here is why. First of all, you get easy and direct contact with the managers or owners, something that allows you to have authentic, human conversations with them concerning their strategies and plans to ensure your safety. Secondly, it increases your chances of getting the best prices and discounts, allowing you to save money.
Lots of independent holiday companies have been forced to adopt the use of Online Travel Agents (OTAs) like Expedia and Booking.com because of their market domination. (third reason…) forcing these businesses to take substantial cuts in revenue. Some online travel agents charge over 20 per cent commission to make a booking, something that’s been straining the UK’s independent holiday market.
Check for Covid Statements
Any independent holiday company worth its salt will have a COVID-19 Statement, or something similar, on their site. Look for details about the company provides services, welcomes visitors to their establishment, serve food, and how they clean. Such details will give you an idea if they are people who put the customers first.
Check the Terms and Conditions
We’ve all heard harrowing stories of how big holiday companies don’t have the best service practice; especially when it comes to holiday changes, refunds, and cancellations. You’ll find that many independent holiday companies do not want to be a part of that gang, which is why most will do their best to ensure that they offer the best terms and conditions in the industry. Keep an eye out for free rescheduling or cancellation – that way, if an emergency arises and you cannot travel to the destination, you are assured that your booking will either be rescheduled or canceled without too much of a fuss.
Get to Know the Service Provider
Reviews are crucial but lots of independent holiday businesses haven’t received reviews for a while now due to the lockdown. While that’s the case, you can still find out more about a business by checking out their social profiles, watching their videos, reading older reviews, or messaging them for information.
Ask Lots of Questions
Each area of the United Kingdom is different when it comes to what is closed and what’s open near where you go for a holiday. Use the tips provided here to get an idea of activities you can do or areas you can visit once you arrive at your destination. In most cases, independent managers and owners will know the best and safest areas to visit, where the nearest open pubs are, and where to eat.
Be Flexible
It’ll take some time before life goes back to normal. As such, you need to be a bit more flexible about your travelling procedures, leaving things that aren’t a necessity at home, carrying your towels, and adhering to protocols everywhere you go for now to enjoy your holiday.
Learn New Things
The recent lockdowns have helped many people realise that tapping into their curious or creative side can be quite beneficial. So, why not try combining one of your newfound hobbies with your break? The good thing is that many independent holiday places have great links for guided walking, sporting activities, craft courses, and art classes. Creating memories that last has never been more important and could even give you one of the best holiday breaks you have ever had.
Keep it Local
Once you get to your destination, make the most of your stay by fully immersing yourself in the area where you are staying. Try local dishes, explore the surrounding area on foot, and seek out independent shops (avoid supermarket deliveries). Keeping it local not only makes your stay better but also adds value to the area’s economy. Your money has power!
Share the Love
Once you’ve had an amazing independent holiday experience in the United Kingdom, remember to share what you experienced with others. The more people in Britain know that independent holiday businesses are the way to go, the more we all will play our role in supporting the nation’s tourism economy. All the while helping others find great spots to visit and enjoy during their holiday break.
