Hey there, holiday seekers! 🌞 We love sharing our two charming holiday lets on social media, and while it takes some time and effort, it’s totally worth it! Booking directly with us means you get to skip those hefty fees that big booking companies love to charge. Plus, we get to connect with amazing guests like you who are on the hunt for that dreamy getaway!
But here’s the thing: the search for the perfect holiday can sometimes feel like a wild goose chase! It makes my blood boil when I see posts about guests being scammed while trying to book their well-deserved escape. Some folks save up for ages, and their kids are buzzing with excitement, or it might even be a honeymoon! 😍 Yet, some of the places I’ve come across are just not up to scratch—definitely not the cozy retreat you deserve.
Having stayed in various spots ourselves, we know the struggle is real. Sometimes it feels like a game of chance when it comes to getting what you paid for—or worse, not getting a holiday at all! 😱
So, how can you dodge those pesky scams?
The golden rule: Never, and I mean NEVER, respond to unsolicited messages from someone trying to sell you a holiday on social media. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is! Look out for fake accounts with no friends and no website links. If you must message back, ask for their website link!
Check for a proper website! Scroll to the bottom to see who’s behind it. Is it a well-designed site or just a one-page wonder? A little sleuthing goes a long way!
Opt for a website with an online booking and payment system. Why? Because setting that up costs money! If an owner is serious enough to invest in this, you can bet they’re the real deal.
Never hand over payment details over the phone or in chats. Stick to secure payment systems on websites where you can use credit cards for extra safety.
Do your homework! Search for the property name online. You’ll likely find reviews and contact details. Do they match up?
Check out the property on Airbnb and Booking.com. This way, you can message the owners directly to confirm you’re talking to the right person.
And don’t forget to check the accessibility and safety features! Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for:
Up-to-date Fire Risk Assessment. New fire regulations came out in 2023, so make sure they have linked fire alarms and fire doors.
Accessibility Policy
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Annual PAT testing
EIPC every five years
GDPR policy
Have I scared you off?
I hope not! There are so many beautiful properties in the UK run by fabulous hosts who are passionate about what they do. Like us, they’ve been working hard in this challenging industry since Covid, and they truly need your support. They want to provide you with that perfect escape, so don’t let a few bad apples deter you—just do your research!
Should you book direct?
For some, the risk may feel a bit daunting, and we totally get that! That’s why we offer the option to book directly or through well-known platforms, which you can find on our booking page.
These tips are just the start of your holiday planning adventure! We can’t wait to welcome you to Belvedere Lodge or Porth Sands in 2025, no matter how you choose to book. Happy holidays and happy planning! 🎉
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