Avoid Vacation Blues

The room was the type you see in a seedy horror flick. Wallpaper hanging off the wall, stained bed linens, and lingering odors wafting up from the threadbare carpets. The kicker? This hotel room had been given a four star rating. As my family perused the room we had been dreaming about for the last sixth months, we wondered if it had been something out of our nightmares. Once we found the vomit in the toilet and the empty beer bottles in bath tub, we decided to migrate across the street to a hotel that promised to be slightly more inviting.

Vacation disasters are every travelers greatest fear. But there are several things that the traveling family or the individual can do to ensure that their trip is a safe, sane and sanitary one. The most important thing to remember is to research everything about your destination. While many people tend to research the actual location, many times they fail to take the time to research other aspects such as transportation, lodgings, and food. Research what other people have had to say about their experiences. In doing this, read BETWEEN the lines! If someone had a great time while trekking through the jungles of the Amazon and you want to relaxing experience in a 5 star resort, continue to look further, that trip is not for you.

Also, if you want to step off the plane and be personally escorted to your hotel, be sure your hotel is easily accessible. Many times, people are put out when they realize they are responsible for their own transportation and that the drive to comfort is further than they expected. Some hotels offer personal concierge services, which include pick up and drop off at departure and arrival points. Others will drive you to the airport but not pick you up. When booking reservations, be sure to ask.

While booking, also ask what the hotels policy is on refunding or allowing patrons to switch rooms. If someone asks for non-smoking and the room reeks, be sure the hotel will accommodate you and give you a different room or some sort of compensation if the room is booked. Also, be sure to inquire what sort of guests the hotel attracts. If you are a parent with children be sure this is not a spring break bikini contest hot spot. On the other hand, if you are a collegiate be sure you are not staying at the number one hot spot for senior citizens.

Finally, read up on the grub. Everyone travels with different palates. If McDonald's is your thing, you shouldn't have much of a problem finding something to eat. If, however, you tend to enjoy sit down three course meals look into whether or not your hotel either has a nice restaurant or has one within walking distance. Also research whether or not they offer a continental breakfast or if you will have to make a daily Starbucks run.

With a little research and a few phone calls you should be one your way to a great time. Just remember its your time off, and you are the guest. While common courtesy is always a plus, you are still the guest and you deserve a good time!