The idea of staying at a guest house in itself sounds very antique. Some would even picture it as unclean rooms, broken windows and lack of facilities. But those are things of past. What we can imagine now is a picture from the classics that we read at school – villas with beautiful balconies opening into nature. Guest houses are now more comfortable and far simpler and chic than the frills and 'interior clutter' of five star hotels.
Comfortable and still pocket-friendly
Guest houses are generally owned by those from middle class backgrounds. They thus have a better understanding of the needs of their customers. So, guests find it more comfortable and it also builds a family feeling which ensures the guests' return the following year. This formula has already found takers in corporate companies who are now looking at a lucrative investment in this sector.
The main reason for expensive hotels becoming passe is a weak global economy. More people are preferring to stay back over emptying themselves in the vacations. Guest houses, the cheaper cousins, are therefore making the most of this economic situation.
Is it worth the price?
If a B&B is priced very low, obviously there must be something wrong. Either the bathroom is very small or shared or not well maintained.
Food preferences
Lodges give you the option for cooking and also provide separate cooking spaces, a facility you can least imagine at a five-star hotels.
How to choose a Guest House
Choosing the guest house that best suits your needs of bed and breakfast and other facilities is a bit tough as these units generally lack accreditation. Always go through the website of the lodge before booking a room. Check whether it has been certified by a government agency. It should be listed under the local tourist bureau's area guide.
Travel magazines can be of use – Travel publications will give you an idea of the area and known accommodations. But sometimes they tend to skip some good lodges as the writers are unaware of them.
Rating and accreditations may be benchmarks for safety but not professionalism. So, just place a call and reassure yourselves before booking your reservation. Is the call promptly answered and all doubts cleared? Do you get a satisfying reply to your email? Personal attention is what is mostly expected in guest houses as these units are not that busy compared to star hotels.
Does it suit your needs? – Most of us prefer quieter and secluded places especially if it is a guest house. Some like it downtown. The location of the lodge has to be determined before deciding on a stay. You can decide on whether you can drive to the lodge or use public transport. Parking space should not be an issue. Check with the innkeeper. Do you find it difficult on the stairs or do you require a refrigerator for your medicines. All these have to be clarified before checking in.
What kind of decor do you prefer? –Check the Guest House Horley website for the room decor, whether you love it to be more feminine. Some of us just like it to be simple, some like it ornate and chic, and some love the antique feel. You can check with the B&B and make prearrangements.
Martin Wynn
