One of the most common questions we are asked by guests is ‘why should I book direct with you?’ Whilst we cover this in our Frequently Asked Questions post; we feel it deserves a blog post all to itself!
So here, in no particular order, are the main benefits of booking direct with us.
Cost savings
Online third parties, think travel agents, booking.com, airbnb and vrb charge a commission of up to 20% in booking fees which is passed onto you, our guest, via their booking platforms.
Direct bookings allow you to avoid the added fees that these middlemen charge, resulting in a lower overall cost for your summer apartment rental.
You save, save save!
Improved communication and Personal Service
When you book directly with the owner, you can communicate with them directly and effectively, ensuring that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly. This direct line of communication also ensures that any special requests or needs you have can be easily accommodated and there is no delay in response.
You can also benefit from a more personalized service so if you are celebrating a special occassion, need a welcome hamper or a lift from the ferry port all you need to do is ask the owner direct.
Increased flexibility and no hassle bookings
Booking directly with us provides greater flexibility in terms of check-in and check-out times. This can be especially helpful for those with flight or transportation schedules that don’t conform to traditional check-in times.
Where possibe we will always accommodate your requirements and if your apartment is needed for our next guests you are welcome to leave your luggage in our safe luggage storage area while you take a last stroll through the village.
It is also easier to book small group holidays so whether you are a group of friends / some couples or a family with children and their partners our 4 one-bedroom apartments can be easily booked for the whole group when you book direct; on a booking platform you are reliant on each individual apartment still being available for the same period of time.
Local Owners = Local Knowledge.
When you book a summer apartment directly with us , you have the opportunity to connect us, learn about our property, the vineyards below; local attractions and recommendations. At The White House Lumbarda we live on-site . This can result in a more unique and personal vacation experience.
We have curated a contact list of phone numbers for restaurants, tours and events and so if you have found a restaurant you want to experience, or an event you wish to attend, let us know and we would be happy to book it for you.
As we are on site we are nearby to answer any questions you have and can readily provide you with maps and information about local walks and bike rides in the area.
Access to additional amenities
Booking a summer apartment at The White House Lumbarda directly with us entitles you to a cheaper rental of the equipment that we have on hand for your entertainment such as our Paddleboard and 2 person kayak.
Benefit the local economy
Did you know that by 2030 80% of holiday bookings are estimated to be through the OTA’s while by 2025 Airbnb estimates it will control 65% of the short term rental market. Booking direct benefits small local businesses not global conglomerates. We are people not algorithms! And your enjoyment is our primary goal.
Special Offers
When you book direct you receive discounted rates at our events such as our June and September yoga retreat, Kitesurfing Camps and Sailing holidays.
Signing up to our newsletter and you will also be the first to hear about our events and giveaways.
Sign up here