Local, regional and national award ceremonies are a great way to recognise excellence in the tourism industry. From small and large hotels to attractions, self-catering, dining experiences and individual contributions, awards can profile those who excel and set high standards for others to match.
For owners of holiday homes who run the property as a business offering self-catering holidays they are a great way to raise your profile locally and regionally, and generate more publicity and bookings.
But for those looking to improve the quality of their self-catering property, looking at the winners from around the UK can provide some excellent insights into best practice presentation, marketing and holiday experience for self-catering properties.
With this in mind, we look at some of the winners from 2011 in the awards around the country and see what can be learnt.
Enjoy England – England Awards for Excellence
2011 winner in the self-catering category: The Dovecote Barns, York, North Yorkshire, http://www.dovecotebarnsyork.co.uk/.
- Winner of not only the national awards, but also the local and regional awards, Green Tourism Gold, and 5 star awards for Quality, all displayed prominently on their homepage.
- VisitEngland rating for disabled guests.
- Complementary extras including a grocery basket, toiletries and logs for the stove.
- Good local information and link to the York tourist website to help guests explore the area.
- Internal decor of a high standard with modern touches such as an iPod dock and under-floor heating.
- Eco-friendly credentials.
Runners-up
East View Farm Holidays, Norfolk http://www.eastviewfarm.co.uk/
- Good selection of area photographs on the front page – remember that area information is very important for holidaymakers, especially if they have not visited the area before. Providing this on the website established confidence in potential guests.
- Easy to view availability and weekly prices.
- Free wi-fi – fast becoming a essential requirement in self-catering properties.
Millbrook Cottages, Devon - http://www.millbrookcottages.co.uk/
- Tripadvisor comments on the website front page, establishing their credibility.
- Structured area guide with pages for where to eat, attractions, beaches and activities.
- The photos section helps to convey the atmosphere and draw in potential guests.
A few themes across all three winners:
- Internally the cottages are presented with quality, durable furniture in a contemporary style.
- Details are important, such premium entertainment systems, the quality of bedding and facilities in the kitchen. Quality brand items are provided, such as Smeg, Villeroy and Boch, Denby and Bose.
- Providing extras such as logs for a wood burner, a luxury welcome basket and detailed area information will set you apart from the crowd.
- If you have won awards, show them prominently in your marketing material.
