Travellers and locals alike are spoilt for choice when deciding where to stay in South Africa. The sun-kissed shorelines, incredible culinary experiences, vibrant cityscapes, and friendly hospitality add something extra to every adventure. At Eat and Sleep, we ensure you choose accommodation based on honest reviews, comparing the best with the rest. Here are some of our top tips for choosing accommodation.
Pick a Good Location:
Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, location is everything when deciding where to stay. Make sure you’re close to the attractions you want to see. If your holiday is beach-inspired, Cape Town and Durban have lovely hotels, holiday homes, and Airbnbs along or near the coastline. If you need to be central to the city for work, book accommodation nearby to avoid traffic going in and out of town.
Read the Reviews:
Reviews provide a real-life glimpse of what you can expect from the accommodation you book. Whether good or bad, you can learn from those who’ve booked and stayed before you. While any established hotel or holiday rental will place itself in high regard, you know that reviews will be honest and share true experiences. Make sure to read any available reviews before securing your accommodation booking.
Consider the Facilities:
The right facilities will depend on you and those travelling with you. Assess the available facilities before booking, to ensure you will be comfortable and happy throughout your stay. For a luxury experience, you may want a villa with a swimming pool and sea views. Business travellers value a reliable Wi-Fi connection, while families may seek facilities like kids’ play areas and a highchair or cot.
Budget:
Budget bookings in season (summer and over holidays) are few and far between. The best prices are usually found in the “off-season,” and preferential rates are often given to bookings that extend over longer periods. Be aware of any additional fees for services like laundry or housekeeping. If you define your budget from the start, you should stick to it by comparing accommodations that match what you can afford.
Select the Right Accommodation Type:
Different types of accommodation include lovely hotels, cosy holiday homes and apartments, luxury villas, laidback airbnbs and more. A hotel usually offers housekeeping and has a restaurant for guests to enjoy, while an Airbnb is more private and has self-catering amenities. Decide where to stay based on your preferences and accommodation needs.