Costs of Self Catering

THE COSTS OF SELF CATERING

Savings in ACCOMMODATION costs by self catering can be substantial compared with staying at hotels or bed and breakfasts when you compare the qualities of the properties, particularly if you have children with you or there are several adults. You can calculate the substantial savings on morning meals and other meals you take in your own self catering lodging. You are able to prepare your own picnic meals to take on your tours and expeditions to the countryside.

LOCATION, SIZE, SEASON, AND LEVEL OF LUXURY are involved in determining the costs. Self catering property rental rates are typically based on a seven night stay and vary with seasonal demand. You can also book stays of two or three nights sometimes, depending upon demand. For example, a rural property normally costs less than an equivalent property in a city center.

We prefer village properties or those within five miles of a town or village. They cost less, provide tranquility, lovely views, and are convenient as touring bases.

HIGHER PRICED PROPERTIES are likely located in city centers, may be larger, have luxury features such as pools, access to fitness facilities, golf, fishing, and have other activities on site.They may have a minimum age for children or prohibit children.The costs range from 1,500 GBP to 2,000 GBP per week.

MODERATE PRICED PROPERTIES are not likely in city centers, but may be within easy commuting distance to a city center. May be near commercial transportation such as bus or railway. The price per week ranges from 500 to 1,000 GBP depending upon size.

LOWER PRICED PROPERTIES are more likely to be rural and may be smaller. They may not be near public transportation. The prices are 250 to 500 GBP per week.

NOTE: Our experience indicates that to truly enjoy the flexibility offered by self catering one should have a car. Also, road access from villages to your daily destinations is simpler than from a city.

COSTS OF RENTING A CAR are often offset by self catering versus staying in hotels or bed and breakfasts.

EXAMPLE: If we are planning a week of primarily garden tours, we choose a location central to several of gardens we wish to visit.