F A Q

1. Some advice and FAQs on online booking
Almost all the hotel links on this website are to our principal hotel-booking partner, and more advice on using the booking service is provided below. Sometimes, in order to provide a comprehensive selection, we link to other booking services such as Hotelclub. Their booking conditions may be different, so you should read their explanations during the booking process.

2. Is it safe to book over the internet?
Yes, it's now standard practice to book hotels online, and our partners who supply the booking technology will ensure the security of your reservation details.

3. When do I pay?
As usual, when you check out of the hotel. You are asked for your credit card details only as insurance (check the cancellation deadline). The only exception to this is for a few apartments - they may require a deposit to be paid in advance. Where this is the case, it will be clearly stated. As long as your accommodation takes credit cards, you can pay how you choose; you don't need to use the same card. If you're staying in a humble small hotel or B&B, check whether you'll need to pay in cash.

4. Should I confirm with the hotel?
Increasingly you can find instant bookings, which are confirmed as soon as you complete the booking process. Theoretically all bookings are confirmed from the moment the hotel sends you a confirmation email. However, you may wish to call, email or fax the hotel a few days before your arrival, just to double-confirm room details, dates etc.

5. I'm confused about what I'll be paying You will pay the amount listed by the hotel in their confirmation email. Unless you specifically arrange extras when you're at the hotel, they're bound to charge you the amount previously agreed. Take the printed confirmation with you as proof. When you are comparing prices on the website, it's normal to list the price PER ROOM, not per person. If the hotel charges per person, this will be stated with the price list.

6. How does it work?
You follow the step-by-step booking procedure, which is very straightforward. Your reservation request is forwarded to the hotel. Some hotels offer instant confirmation, and this should be indicated in the website listing. Otherwise the hotel will send you a confirmation email as soon as possible. Some hotels take longer than others; you may have to wait up to two days, although this is unusual. If the hotel has to reject your booking (again, this is unusual), your request can be forwarded to other similar hotels in the area. You choose whether to activate this option when you make the original request.

7. Is breakfast included?
Generally, breakfast is included unless the hotel specifically states otherwise. But bear in mind that an Italian breakfast is nothing like a 'Full English Breakfast'. You may well be served only with a cup of coffee and a jam croissant - or even a voucher to use at a nearby bar. A good excuse for a mid-morning cake break...

courtesy: www.italyheaven.co.uk