For your next vacation you may want to consider an accommodation type other than just a standard hotel room. There are many independently owned accommodation types to choose from.
When traveling to an unfamiliar location it can be a difficult decision about where to stay. What are the considerations when comparing chain hotels to independently owned establishments.
As you know, chain hotels tend to be the larger, "cookie cutter" type of accommodations. Although, even if you choose a chain hotel, they are not necessarily company-run. There are many "chains" that are actually individual franchises. Usually, these hotels are required to meet minimum company standards in order to remain part of the chain. The key concept here being "minimum standards". That means that not all locations in this chain are necessarily as good (clean, maintained, etc.) as others.
Often travelers will pick a chain hotel in an unfamiliar city so they feel like they'll know what to expect - no surprises. We did just that on our first trip to Belize. We reserved accommodations at a well-known chain hotel for our first two nights in Belize City. It was a mistake. We left after only one night for several reasons (not very clean, air conditioning didn't work, etc.) and found, with the help of a guide book, the most wonderful B&B - the Fort Street Guesthouse. It was like something out of a movie - four poster beds, mosquito netting, wonderful ambience, great owners (they sent us Christmas cards for years after our visit) and terrific guests. It made our visit to Belize City memorable.
So, let's lay out the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
Chain Hotel Accommodations
Pros
You know what to expect (this is true most of the time but not always)
Web-enabled reservations system (frequently)
Will accept most credit cards
Generous cancellation policies (frequently)
Cons
Tends to be a more commonplace experience
Often a sterile type atmosphere
More expensive (not always true, but remember the adage "You get what you pay for.")
Independently Owned Accommodations
Pros
Unusual types of accommodations (like lighthouses or tug boats)
A more authentic flavor
Less expensive (not always true)
A more enjoyable, personal experience mixed with reliable local advice
Can be part of the adventure
Cons
Not always sure what you're getting
Language barriers
Booking difficulties (often don't have an online reservations system)
Upfront deposits (smaller places need to charge some, or all, of the costs upfront)
Unable to accept credit cards (smaller properties often can't accept credit cards)
Cancellation Fees & Policies (frequently there are no refunds, unless they can re-book the accommodations, if you cancel less than a certain amount of time in advance.)
In many countries there are associations that rate independent lodgings such as Bed & Breakfasts and Inns. It's a good idea to see if the property you're looking at belongs to an association or has been rated by a tourism agency.
With advanced planning you can make your vacation a memorable experience. If things aren't as you expect, hey, chalk it up to experience!
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