Sun, sea, and Spain. The three tenets of any good summer vacation.
Holiday apartments remove the hassle of hotels with home-away-from-home comfort. For travelers intending on staying for longer than a few short days, it can be tempting to put down roots. (However temporary they may be). New lodging options are cropping up everywhere we look, so it can be hard to feel wary of listings and online phishing. However, as many travelers will attest, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Especially if you’ve nabbed an incredible deal in an awe-inspiring city – what’s not to love? Here are five essential tips to help you find a heavenly holiday rental in Spain.
Location Investigation
To ensure the ultimate getaway in the sun, it’s time to engage in some sleuthing. A key determining factor is location.
Do you envision yourself traipsing through the charmingly narrow streets of Albicin in Granada or strolling the verdant and rolling hills of Asturias? Drinking cocktails under the sun on a beach in Ibiza or feeling the electric energy of a Saturday night in Madrid? Whatever your holiday style, choosing a city or town that aligns with your plans is a strong start to picking accommodation in Spain.
Once you’ve specified the type of Spanish holiday for you, it’s time to research the locale further.
The zone should also correspond with your trip intentions. When looking for holiday apartments in Barcelona, there are many idyllic neighborhoods to choose from. El Gotico and El Born are steeped in history and, as such, are portals into the past. Gracia is a quintessential Catalan neighborhood with a bohemian atmosphere. And despite Poblenou’s industrial appearance, it has become the beating heart of subculture and has become synonymous with trendy. Dubbed as one of the top European cities for digital nomads, many opt for longer stays in the alluring Catalan capital.
An ideal rental should be relatively close to any attractions that you wish to visit. In the event that this is not feasible, it should at the very least be well-connected – public transport options nearby. Many rental listings will provide information about points of interest in your proximity and how to access them. Spending some time on Google Maps will give you an eagle-eye view of you short-term neighborhood, providing you with a better sense and understanding.
Use Trusted Platforms (Trust Us On This One)
Scamming has become a harsh and cruel reality for those looking for a holiday escape. Scammers are increasingly crafty and less identifiable, making it easy for anyone to fall prey.
To ensure that your tourist apartment does not turn into a tourist trap, stick to reputable sites.
Investigate property listings with a fine-tooth comb to discover the following:
- Are there more positive than negative reviews?
- What is the overall rating?
- Are the photos accurate and real to life?
- How responsive is the host?
- Is the account verified?
Allotting time to read through the comments helps you paint a picture of the property and your potential experience. If you require clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out to the host. Interaction with them will also help determine if this is the right fit for you. Choosing a verified option will leave you safe in the knowledge that the host has been thoroughly vetted by the platform.
How Many Amenities
Rental vacation properties will each come with their own unique list of services and amenities. What are the specificities that will upgrade your stay from couch-surfing to cozy? While certain amenities are traveller-specific, many are universal requirements, such as a stable WiFi connection and a fully equipped kitchen. Braving Spain in the summer months? Look for housing options with air conditioning for a cool and breezy time. Other general amenities to consider may be a washing machine, tumble dryer, and, of course, adequate security.
Features such as a terrace and pool access are an added bonus and will wrap you in an extra layer of relaxation in high season.
Read The Fine Line
A holiday rental agreement is just that: a rental agreement. Far removed from a hotel stay, visitors need to pay attention to the outlined details. Carefully review the cancellation policy, housekeeping rules, check-in and check-out information, and any additional fees incurred, such as cleaning fees or security deposit. Availing of a property may entail specific restrictions or rules, therefore it is always best to hash out any doubts with the landlord. Clear communication and regular check-ins with your point of contact will help your Spanish stay go swimmingly.
‘Tis The Season-ality
Spain’s cultural tapestry is interwoven with a multitude of spectacular celebrations. As such, seasonality is key, as peak tourist season will cause demand to skyrocket.
Highly-anticipated events such as Las Fallas in Valencia, Semana Santa in Málaga, and Pamplona Bull Run result in visitors clambering for accommodation. While each is an unmissable event in its own right, strategic booking, and foresight can help you land a reasonable deal.
A country that boasts over 300 days of sunlight annually has a clear draw. Depending on the location, beach days can swiftly morph into blistering heat. June, July, and August are the warmest months on record, with the Andalusian territories of Seville and Granada reaching well over 40 degrees. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn can offer a more tranquil experience with the added benefit of lower costs. This is true for coastal cities such as Barcelona and Cádiz, as the decreased temperature makes for a pleasant beach day and provides perfect conditions for exploring.
Another invaluable tip is garnering local insight. Should you have a Spanish connection or perhaps a friend who has been living in the area for some time, use their local experience. Many of a city’s best-kept secrets are often on an online forum or buried in the comments section – lived experiences will be valued more. Often, they can inform you of the areas to steer to or veer away from and help you remain clear of potential mishaps.
The holiday rental chosen should align with your needs and expectations of your short-term stay. Whether you’re seeking adventure in Las Palmas or catching some waves in San Sebastian, we hope our five tips help you find the accommodation you deserve. By narrowing your scope, researching the location, remaining conscious of seasonal events, and always reading the fine print, you can secure the rental you’ve been searching for.
Jessi is the creative mind behind The Coffee Mom, a popular blog that combines parenting advice, travel tips, and a love for all things Disney. As a trusted Disney influencer and passionate storyteller, Jessi’s authentic insights and relatable content resonate with readers worldwide.