HOTELS / TRAVEL TIPS
The best place to stay is not always the cheapest room. Location, transport and a good night’s sleep matter on a short trip.
THE WEEKENDERS→HOTELS
THE WEEKENDERS / TRAVEL TIPS
These are the starting points I would think about when organising a weekend away. The trick is making the most of a short trip without making it feel like hard work.
01 / THE SHORT VERSION
Plot the hotel against the places you most want to visit. A central room may be worth the extra cost if it cuts out repeated journeys. Decide on the type of hotel you want whether its small boutique hotel which you're willing to spend a little more on or a multinational where you know what to expect.
02 / THE SHORT VERSION
Include local taxes, breakfast, parking if needed, and any optional fees. Compare like for like, not just the first price shown. There may be offers of upgrading depending on the time of year you're staying.
03 / THE SHORT VERSION
Pay attention to noise, cleanliness, bed comfort, heating or air conditioning and the reliability of check-in.
04 / THE SHORT VERSION
Work out which train, tram or bus you will use and how late it runs and what time you will need to be on it. Trying to work out where should be before the last train leaves is stress you don't need on the first day of the weekend away. A good hotel can be a poor choice with an awkward late-night transfer.
05 / THE SHORT VERSION
Flexible rates generally cost more, but can be helpful when flights or plans are uncertain. Look at the hotels website and reviews of it on other sites.
06 / THE SHORT VERSION
If you spend most of the day walking, a comfortable bed, decent shower and quiet location may matter more than extra hotel facilities. For the majority of time in you room you'll be asleep!