We all love escaping to a hotel for a few days, but there always seems to be so much to do before we can actually switch off from our everyday lives and begin to enjoy the good life. To begin with, how do you choose the right destination? Is there a particular location you wish to visit, or are you open to anywhere that suddenly takes your fancy? Do you want small and intimate – or an all singing all dancing affair with Olympic size swimming pool and fabulous Spa? With mail shot brochures, television adverts and fancy websites all promising the best hotel deals on the planet you might be reaching for the headache pills before you’ve even switched on the computer. But personal recommendations can be a good start – or independent internet reviews.

Are you looking for a hotel by the sea or in the city? Luggage is usually heavy and cumbersome, so if you’re going by train, a hotel within walking distance of the station is perhaps worth considering. After all, dragging a bulging suitcase through a busy town centre isn’t the best start to a holiday. And if you’re travelling by car it’s always a good idea to check that the hotel you choose has parking facilities – even better if you don’t have to pay for the privilege! If you do want to be in a particular spot, do your homework and make sure the hotel is actually where it claims to be. Just because it’s called ‘Seashore View’ doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a sandy beach right outside the front door.

If you’re taking the whole clan be sure to ask about family discounts, and make sure you ask for written confirmation of any offers made to you at the time of booking. It might save time – and argument – when you come to check out at the end of your stay.

If you’re hoping for a romantic getaway try and avoid hotels that offer great facilities for kids. Many a candlelight dinner has been ruined by someone else’s offspring screaming blue murder at the next table because they can’t get their own way. Worst still, you’ll only get even more wound up and stressed out when they’re in the next room to you with the TV on full blast at six the next morning.

On the subject of eating, if fine food is at the top of your list of priorities, ensure the hotel has a restaurant that lives up to the standards you expect. Even if you only book bed and breakfast, and you have the option of dining out in the evening at local eateries, it’s nice to know there’s a top notch restaurant right there in the hotel for those nights you really can’t be bothered going anywhere else.

Finally, remember, a holiday needn’t be ruined by faulty air conditioning, lumpy pillows or a TV that doesn’t work. If the staff at your chosen hotel is friendly and caring, there’s not much that can’t be overcome – and a good time should be had by all.

Author Bio: Dave Matthews is writing on behalf of Kettering Park Northamptonshire Spa.

Category: Travel
Keywords: hotel, spa, short break, holiday