The hardest part of vacationing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach may be choosing where to stay.
There are so many options - from mid-price to upscale hotels, condos (in all price ranges), beach houses and even camping - it can be overwhelming. Once you’ve decided what type of beach rental is needed, the real fun begins. But there is one thing to remember no matter whether you stay in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach or Fort Morgan: booking direct has many benefits.
1.) When you call to book or book online directly with a local vacation rental management company, you are typically talking to folks who live and work in the area. They are knowledgeable about not only the property itself, but also the area, so they can often give recommendations on restaurants, attractions, and more.
2.) Most often, booking directly with a property versus a third party (like VRBO, AirBnB or HomeAway) will carry some perks. This can be anything from onsite maintenance (pretty important if you have a leaking tub or toilet) to free or discounted beach chairs to area attraction discounts. Oftentimes, rental management companies have partnerships with local attractions and restaurants, so always ask if they don’t mention it. Every amount saved adds up.
3.) Booking direct also can mean specials or discounts for empty rooms. Maybe it’s the off-season or a time when you caught the property with some rooms they need to fill. Reservation fees are typically less with direct booking as well because there are no third parties to go through.
4.) Booking direct is your first experience with a lodging venue and likely the level of hospitality reflected within that conversation will be what you receive upon checking in. In fact, sometimes the same staff sitting at the check-in desk will also be answering the reservation line.
From fees to specials and lots of perks, you’ll find the overall experience when booking direct for your accommodation will likely be a top-quality experience. You’ll make friends before you leave and be surprised by how they remember your family year to year. There’s nothing like local hospitality — book direct and see for yourself.
