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Deciding
on where to stay |
The decision of the type of accommodation you decide to stay in may come down
to several deciding points.
Hartside.com manages the Bike-Stay Accommodation
Directory, which lists Motorbike Friendly Places to stay around the world. (
www.bike-stay.net ).
Please do let us know if you are seeking Bike Friendly Accommodation in unlisted
regions, new accommodation is added weekly and we endeavour to meet demand.
Gone are the days where you need to pack your tent, or grovel with an
innkeeper to park your bike someplace safe!
Most Self Catering
Apartments and Cottages will only let on a
weekly basis, or a minimum stay of 3 nights. Although some will let for less
than 3 nights during non-peak time, please check with advertisers prior to
booking. In France, these are commonly referred to as Gites, in other parts of
Europe are simply referred to as apartments.
B&B and Guest House
accommodation is ideal if you want your breakfast served in the mornings! Ideal
and convenient for one night, one week or more. Many now offer healthy options
and vegetarian options if a full traditional cooked breakfast isn't your thing!
In Europe, B&B accommodation can be referred to as a Pousada, Inn, Hostel (very
different from a Youth Hostel) or Auberge
Hotel, Resort and Motel accommodation vary around the
world. Many motels allow parking outside of your own apartment, some resorts
allow this as well (and offer good on-site facilities). They can be booked on a
B&B or room-only basis. Some have self catering apartments (or at least enough
facilities to microwave a snack).
Camping, many
campsites don't encourage motorcycles simply as they fear the noise. But it's a
great way to tour all the same.
Check with your campsite before you arrive. Some will only accept mixed groups
unless you have booked in advance, Many will only accept two bikes per party or
even individual riders. It's always ideal to book in advance during peak season
and advise the owners that you are on motorcycles or they may refuse entry.
Group Accommodation, in Europe there are a large number of different
kinds of group accommodation available. Backpacker hostels often accommodate
motorcyclists, Bunk Houses are more commonly found in rural areas of the UK.
Self Catering
If you are looking for a touring base, then a self catering cottage, cabin,
apartment or lodge may be your first choice if you are not travelling alone.
Check in advance if towels and bed linen are provided. There may be a surcharge
for bed linen on a per week basis. If there are laundry facilities within the
accommodation you may be able to freshen these up yourself, however do check in
advance if your stay is longer than a weekend.
The advantage of SC accommodation is that you can clean your bike down at the
end of a days ride usually without much ado (providing there is a bucket and
sponge under the sink!)
Bed & Breakfast
Bed and Breakfast accommodation is different around the world! So if your trip
is in a different country, you may wish to bear this in mind! Also known as B&B,
BnB. Some establishments will offer DBB, which is Dinner, Bed & Breakfast.
Traditionally, a private home which takes in paying guests,
with breakfast included in the price of lodging. These can range from modest
homes with one spare room to elaborately restored historic houses with luxury
prices. Used increasingly to describe any lodging arrangement that includes
breakfast, even in a hotel.
Rooms will be private rooms, may or may not have an ensuite
bathroom, or shared bathroom/toilet with other guests. Owners will be resident.
Guests are usually expected to be away from the room for the main part of that
day, and to return in evenings only.
Some B&Bs only accept 2-3 night bookings over weekends,
although may agree to 1 night stops during week days.
Pricing is usually per person, or per room, based on two
people sharing. Be sure to check
Bed and Breakfast in the USA
B&B's in the USA can be almost of any size, They will usually provide a full
breakfast.
Guest House
A Guest house is usually a private dwelling converted to provide
rooms for paying guests to sleep.
The difference between guest houses and B&B's and hotels that provide a bed
and breakfast service is connected with additional services provided by the
hotel.
In Guest Houses the emphasis is personal and individual service for guests.
Prices will always be good value, and rather than lots of facilities and a more
standardised service you'll get friendly, usually family run accommodation.
Some will provide meals to guests, although it is not a requirement. The less
formal atmosphere and personal attention are typical for both of these
categories.
If you would like any further information, please do not
hesitate to contact us by emailing
info@hartside.com
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