Escape, Getting Away

In the cold days of winter, most people cannot help but think about getting away to a warmer climate.  Even if your vacation is months away, it is not too soon to plan where to go.

Some people go to the same location each year, while others love to explore new places.  In planning your vacation, recommendations from family and friends is useful if you are planning to go to a new locale.  There are many amazing places to visit, both in here and abroad.  Looking for deals is important, as saving money can allow you to have more spending money.  Be cautious to make sure what you book is what you get.

One of the most important decisions is where you will sleep each night.  No matter where you go there are many lodging options – camping, hotel, bed and breakfast, and renting a condo or home.

Options for vacation rentals have increased with the inception of web sites devoted to not a particular locale, but to assisting people in choosing a home away from home almost anywhere.  Searching the keyword “vacation rentals” comes up with a large return.  A few of the better known sites include homeaway.com, vacationrentals.com, and vrbo.com.

A rental has many perks not available with other lodging decisions.  With some good planning, you can find a vacation rental where you can stretch out, relax, and enjoy your vacation.

As you perform your search, take the time to carefully read the property description on the web site, view the photos, rental rates and fees, read the reviews from previous customers, and check the availability on their calendar.  Contact the vacation home's owner or rental agent directly from the listing page with any questions you have about the rental.  There should be a link for "Contact Owner."  Some listings may only list an email address, while others include a phone number.

When you are ready to book a place, read the whole contract to understand what is expected of you as a renter (liability) and what the owner is offering for the money that will be exchanged.

Keep in mind the costs that may be added such as utilities, Internet, phone service, cable, cleaning/housekeeping, propane/gas - if outdoor grilling is available.  If linens and towels are included for an extra fee, considering bringing your own (verify the bed sizes).

What amount is due upon signing of the lease?  When is the remainder due?

What forms of payment are accepted - check, PayPal, credit cards?  Is there a processing fee for paying with any of the formats?  If traveling outside of the US, are the costs listed in US dollars or the local currency?

What taxes will be charged – city, county, state?  These fees are normally added at the end after all other charges are totaled.

Is there a broker or rental agent fees?

Is a security deposit required?  When will it be refunded (know how long they will retain it as it could be a few days or a few weeks) provided the unit is left clean and without loss or damage?  Can you purchase non-refundable damage waiver insurance in lieu of a security deposit?

What is the policy about pets?

Do they offer the option of travel insurance in the event you need to cancel due to illness or for weather related cancellations such as a hurricane?

When are the check-in and the check-out times?

How you are to receive the keys upon arrival?

The rental option can allow you to stay in an apartment in a large city like New York or rent an oceanfront home on a beautiful beach.  The leasing options are endless and can be found just about anywhere.

Yes, there are scams out there.  The optional travel insurance can protect you if you fall victim.  Sometimes you may need to be a detective to be protected - pay with a credit card, book through a reputable site, and use your intuition in making your final decision - look on a map for the location, asking for references, and check what other comparable units are leasing for in that area with similar amenities.

We have rented twice through two of the web sites listed above.  Both stays were very nice, allowing us to stay in luxurious places that were more than we expected.  By booking this way, we were able to save money by staying an entire week, cooking most of our meals, and taking advantage of free and low cost activities we found through researching the local area.  Now if it was only time for this years vacation!