Book Direct
When it comes to booking a self-catering holiday, you might be tempted to use third-party booking sites like Airbnb or Booking.com. While these platforms can be convenient, there are some significant benefits to booking directly with us. In this post, we’ll outline five compelling reasons to book direct for your stay, and also offer tips reassure you that the website you’re booking on is trustworthy and secure.
- Better Rates and Exclusive Offers
One of the most compelling reasons to book directly with us is the potential for better rates. We offer lower prices on our own website because don’t need to pay commissions to third-party booking platforms. In fact, you may even be able to score exclusive deals or promotional discounts that are not available elsewhere. By booking direct, you’re not just saving money; you’re also building a direct relationship with us, which can lead to more personalised service
- More Flexibility with Booking Terms
When booking through a third-party site, you’re often bound by rigid terms and conditions, such as their strict cancellation policies or non-negotiable check-in times. Booking directly with us can give you more flexibility to tailor your stay. For example, we can organise pick-ups if you’re arriving by bus, store your luggage if we’re not able to offer an early check-in, extend your check-out time, or accommodate special requests. By booking direct, you’re dealing directly with the decision-maker, which can make your stay much more accommodating and stress-free.
- Personalised Service and Local Insights
When you book directly with us, you are communicating directly with the person who knows the cottage (in fact he built it!) and local area best. We are more than happy to provide local tips, recommend nearby attractions, or even help arrange special experiences like guided tours, local delicacies, or transportation. The personal touch that comes with booking direct can make your self-catering holiday far more memorable than if you were to book through a large corporation.
- Support Local Businesses
When you book directly with us, you’re helping to support local businesses and our community. Third-party booking platforms take a significant portion of the booking fees, which reduces the amount of money that we can invest back into maintaining or improving our cottages. By booking direct, you also ensure that more of your money stays in the local economy, helping the destination thrive and allowing us to reinvest in creating a better experience for future guests.
- More Transparency and Better Communication
One of the pitfalls of booking through third-party sites is that communication can sometimes be slow, impersonal, or difficult to navigate. Booking direct allows for more transparent communication, so you can get quick answers to any questions or concerns you may have before, during, or after your stay. Whether it’s confirming details about the property, arranging check-in, or addressing special requirements, dealing with us directly ensures smoother and more reliable communication.
How to Ensure the Website is Trustworthy
While booking direct comes with plenty of perks, it’s important to that you are confident the website you’re booking from is legitimate and secure. Here are a few tips to help you identify trustworthy websites:
- Look for Secure Payment Options
Make sure the website uses secure payment methods, such as credit cards or recognized payment platforms (like PayPal). A secure site will have “https://” in the web address, with a padlock icon next to the URL. Avoid sites that ask you to pay via untraceable methods like wire transfers or gift cards, as these can be red flags.
- Check for Clear Contact Information
A trustworthy property will offer clear and easily accessible contact information, such as an email address, phone number, and physical address. If you only see a contact form or social media links, proceed with caution. We want to provide you with a way to reach us directly.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials
While you may not find reviews on a property’s own website, check out the Google business page or third-party booking sites for An Dòbhran and An Iolaire. You’ll also find us on different social media platforms including Instagram, facebook, twitter – yes, we’re old-fashioned! – and linkedin. Look for feedback from past guests who can speak to the legitimacy of the property and its amenities.
- Verify Ownership
Look for signs that the property owner is credible. Professional photos, detailed descriptions, and a well-maintained website are good indicators of legitimacy. We have our short-term letting licence number on the homepage of the website, and you’ll see that we’re also 5-star rated by VisitScotland, the national tourist body, and have Gold rating from Green Tourism, the international body that promotes sustainable tourism. These all add a layer of transparency and trust.
- Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about the website, the communication, or the booking process, trust your instincts. If the website looks unprofessional, the deal seems too good to be true, or the property owner is difficult to contact, it might be worth doing more research before proceeding. It’s always better to be cautious when booking your accommodation.
In Conclusion
Booking directly with a self-catering property can save you money, offer more flexibility, and provide a more personalised experience. With better rates, better communication, and the opportunity to support local businesses, it’s a win-win. If you choose not to stay at Dornie Croft, just make sure you’re booking through a trustworthy website that ensures your payment is secure and that you can easily contact the property owner if needed. By following these guidelines, you can confidently book your next self-catering holiday and enjoy a seamless, memorable experience.
Happy travels!