 Best Western appreciates that accommodation is a crucial component of any holiday, as an unpleasant hotel experience can ruin all the fun and relaxation of an otherwise perfect trip - and sleep deprived travelling companions are rarely good company. Each year, Best Western conducts research into what guests want from their accommodation, so Best Western can make sure its guests take only happy memories home with them.
Best Western Australia’s latest research shows the number one factor listed by guests, when asked to rate the importance of the elements of an accommodation chain, was ‘fresh / clean / comfortable rooms’, while ‘a safe & secure environment’ was listed as the second most important aspect. (Source: AEC Group Ltd).
But how do guests ensure this is what they will receive so they can relax and enjoy a good night’s sleep? Well, Best Western has used their research results to compile a checklist for consumers, advising them what to look for when selecting accommodation these holidays.
The top ten things to consider when selecting your hotel:
1. Stick to a known brand name. This way you know what to expect and if there are any unpleasant surprises then you have someone to contact about the situation.
2. If you are stopping over at several locations, it may be easier to use the same brand each time. This way you can quickly and conveniently book all your accommodation with the one phone call or from the one website or you can benefit from the chain’s book ahead service.
3. Find out if the hotel chain has any loyalty programs you can sign up for, free of charge, so you can earn rewards as you holiday. If you are a member of a loyalty program such as FlyBuys, Qantas Frequent Flyer program or Bonus Partners, check which hotels allow you to earn points.
4. Use the hotel chain’s internet to do your homework. Many of the large chains now offer Low Rate Guarantees in addition to detailed information about facilities and photos on their branded websites. Some brands, such as Best Western, even offer online guided tours of their establishments so you know exactly what you are getting.
 5. If you are booking accommodation through a third party website, make sure you know if you have the flexibility to make changes to your plans if required and read all the terms and conditions.
6. Understand what the STARS mean. Most hotels/motels in Australia are rated by the Australian Automobile Association’s STAR rating system. If you use this information to select your hotel, be sure you understand what the STARs actually mean. (Visit www.aaatourism.com.au). Be aware that STARs generally rate the bricks and mortar of the property and don’t take aspects such as friendly service and the convenience of iron/ironing boards in the room into consideration. It is advisable to check if a property is part of a Quality Assurance program as well. This often means the property must meet a certain standard in quality, service and facilities/amenities to be part of a chain.
7. Base your selection on more than just price. While comparing prices is recommended, don’t automatically opt for the cheapest. Sometimes you do get what you pay for and a few extra dollars would have made a world of difference. You also need to evaluate what facilities you actually need and factor that in to ensure you receive good value, i.e. Are you only staying one night on your way through or is this the base for your extended holiday?
8. If travelling with children, find out if the hotel is family-friendly and what facilities are available to help keep the children entertained, e.g. playgrounds, activity packs, games rooms, etc.
9. Make sure you check just how far the property is from the city centre, airport, attraction or the destination you are visiting - don’t assume ‘close by’ is as close as you think. This information should be easily accessible via their website or in the hotel chain’s accommodation directory.
10. Consult an expert – speak to your travel agent or call the reservations office of a hotel chain.
 In addition, if you are planning an Australian driving holiday this summer, then take note of these five hot tips for a great driving holiday:
1. Check distances in kilometres and hours between each destination so you are not caught unawares. Remember to take a break every two hours and if possible, travel during the day.
2. There are many suggested drives already mapped out for travellers, such as Best Western’s Great Australian Drives available on their website complete with times, distances and maps. This could save you hours of planning.
3. Ask for referrals for your next destination from your current accommodation provider, as property owners/managers usually know which properties to recommend along your route.
4. If you plan to rent a car, see if your accommodation provider has any special deals with car rental agencies in place.
5. When you arrive at your destination, ask your accommodation provider for advice on what to see and do. Remember, they live there all year round so can offer the best tips and local information.
Best Western Australia offers 260 hotels, motels, resorts & apartments throughout Australia and is an affiliate of Best Western International - the World's Largest Hotel Chain with over 4100 properties in over 80 countries.
For reservations and information, call 131 779 or visit www.bestwestern.com.au.
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