Every year travelers arrive for their long-awaited vacation only to meet with crushing disappointment. It’s easy for hotels to come across as more than they really are. Here’s how to avoid booking hotels that fall short of your expectations.
1. A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words
Photographs that have been photoshopped to within an inch of their existence are probably hiding something. If the images on a hotel website look too good to be true, try an internet search for images posted by people who’ve been there. Without filters, cropping and lighting, these pictures will give you a better idea of what you’re in for.
2. An Outdated Website
It’s unlikely that Google will place an outdated website on the front page of your internet search, but you should also check for the following to be safe.
- fresh new photos
- recent blog posts
- modern web design
- prices or special offers that are current
Smaller perfectly legitimate establishments may not have the funds or know-how to design and update their website constantly, so give them the benefit of the doubt. However, they should at least have current information on their site.
3. Online Reviews
Look for negative reviews about the place you’re thinking about booking. It’s easy for hotels to post their own glowing recommendations via third parties. Nobody’s perfect and even the best hotels should have one or two complaints. Pay attention to how the hotel handles these hiccups and if the issues are resolved amicably.
4. Speak to a Real Person When Booking Hotels
You can’t beat the convenience of online bookings but it’s easy for shady operators to hide behind the internet. Call the hotel and speak to someone. Ask a few questions and take note of how courteous and helpful the responses are. If you can’t get hold of a living breathing person, it’s best to spend your money elsewhere.
5. Spy on Them from Outer Space
Google Maps is an awesome tool for checking out the lie of the land before you travel anywhere. Thanks to street view, it’s also a great way to check out a hotel before you make a booking. If the street view images miss the mark compared to what’s advertised, or you can’t find the hotel at its advertised location, move on.
6. Get a Specialist to Do Your Hotel Bookings
By far the most convenient way to avoid booking hotels that are below par is to go via a travel specialist. A professional operator would never risk their good reputation by sending you to a hotel that they don’t trust.
Wherever you travel in Southern Africa, you can count on us to book only the best experiences and hotels on your behalf. Get in touch today and start planning a hassle-free holiday that’s everything you dreamed it would be.
