A Lodge For You's Guidelines for a Perfect Vacation

You're leaving for a long weekend to stay in one of the world’s best spa hotels – but why did your travel agent not mention that you should book the treatments ahead of time? Why were you not asked if you would be interested in buying tickets for the famous concert taking place in the city you just booked a weekend escape in? And what about the green fee for golfing? It’s nice to have a golf course right next to your hotel – but it’s a pity that it’s fully booked for the first three days of your vacation! Traveling with kids? Did you know that nannies have to be booked in advance if you wish to have one for the whole stay? Are you sure the baby phone works in the restaurant where you are, while your little sunshine is sleeping peacefully in your wonderful suite? Is your hotel stroller-friendly?

Honestly – these are all points you shouldn’t have to think about – these are things a pro-active, motivated personal travel advisor should deliver to you!

To help you achieve a perfect and worry-free vacation, we’ve put together some important questions:

1. What is the aim of your escape?
a. Adventure
b. Relaxation
c. Sports
d. Culture

2. What kind of lifestyle do you expect on your vacation?
a. Tranquility and luxury
b. Tranquility and simplicity
c. Hip and chic
d. Outdoor living

3. Who will you be traveling with?
a. Spouse/Partner
b. Friends
c. Family/Children

4. Where do you want to stay?
a. Luxury traditional hotel/resort
b. Luxury trendy hotel/resort
c. Charming small hotel/B&B
d. Simple and authentic house/tent
e. Private villa/yacht

Once you have answered these questions and chosen your destination, here are some additional points to consider:

Sports and Beauty
(important for short breaks)

Pre-book your golf arrangements
Pre-book your yacht
Pre-book your spa treatment

Culture
Get in touch with the concierge ahead of time to discuss what concerts, exhibitions, theater and shows are in the area and could be booked in advance.

Dining and Clubbing
Ask your concierge to reserve your favorite restaurants and night clubs for you.

Children
- Find out if you can buy essential items such as diapers, baby lotions, formula, etc. in your resort or surroundings.
- Ask if they offer baby phones that work in the resort/hotel.
- Find out if the resort is stroller-friendly.
- Ask if nannies are available. Or, if bringing your own nanny, find out if she/he can use the children’s rate.
- Find out how old children have to be to join the kids’ club and which languages are spoken there.
- Last but not least, carry your travel agent’s telephone numbers (mobile and office) with you – in case you end up with something different from what you’ve booked.