Safety Checks You Should Perform On A Private Apartment Break
While there are a lot of downsides to staying in hotels, such as rigid dining schedules, noise restriction hours and early check out times no matter when you are scheduled to leave, a big positive about them is that they must adhere to strict health and safety measures. While a private holiday letting company can ensure that all the hosts of their holiday apartments in Hong Kong, for example, are legitimate and will provide everything listed on their advert, it is your responsibility as a guest to know what to do in case of an emergency. Below are a few simple things you can do to ease your mind on a privately booked holiday.
First of all, once you have settled into your accommodation, walk around and take a good look at everything. If there is minor damage to anything, take photographs. If you should lose a percentage of your deposit, present the pictures you have taken as evidence of the condition of the accommodation when you arrived.
You should also make sure that everybody with you is aware of the nearest fire exit and the easiest way to get out of the building. The property should have smoke detectors installed and if you are staying in an apartment building, an evacuation procedure should already be in place. Ask your host for a copy before arrival. An awareness of the layout of your holiday home could also make the difference if an emergency situation arises. For example, furnished apartments in Istanbul, if decorated in a traditional way, could contain footstools that may prove dangerous in an emergency evacuation. Knowledge of their position can help prevent this.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office website provides advice and guidance on staying safe while on holiday. If you are unsure of the laws or culture of the place you are visiting, the FCO can answer any question you may have.