Top 10 Motel Tips. Know Before you Go!
With 27 motels nationwide, Bella Vista is well placed to cater for anyone requiring a motel stay. They are affordable, comfortable and convenient plus in most instances, you will get a better feel for your locality. Whether you stay at Bella Vista Oamaru, Bella Vista Hamilton or Bella Vista Queenstown you will enjoy the hospitality of your Bella Vista host and be assured that each motel is Qualmark endorsed.
Unlike hotels, motels in New Zealand are not big complexes, will not have an on-site restaurant, swimming pool, lobby area, nor different staff for each department. But then you don't have to pay for these extras either! By comparison, Bella Vista Motels will have a welcoming reception area, a convenient carpark, some public spaces such as a garden or BBQ area and guest units within a secure courtyard.
As Bella Vista's are managed by the owners/operator, you will certainly enjoy Bella Vista's genuine kiwi hospitality; a laid back and down to earth style and attitude.
Up to this point, if you have now decided to make a reservation with Bella Vista Accommodation Nationwide, here are 10 light-hearted tips you really should know before you arrive at the motel - particularly if you are an international traveller who hasn't travelled in New Zealand before.
1. The Slipper Situation
Let’s address the elephant in the room early. Bella Vista motels and most New Zealand motels, do not provide complimentary slippers. We know. It’s shocking. If fluffy foot comfort is essential to your travel experience, best pop a pair in your suitcase.
2. Two Stories, No Elevator
All Bella Vista motels are two storeys high and, yes, there’s no elevator. If stairs and luggage aren’t your favourite combination, request a ground-floor room when booking directly with the motel. We can’t promise it every time, but asking nicely goes a long way.
3. The Heater is not a Clothes Dryer
We admire the ingenuity, but draping wet clothes over the heater is a serious fire risk. It’s also an excellent way to make your host panic. Please resist the temptation and if you need to dry clothes, your host can point you in the direction of the Guest Laundry and the clothes dryers.
4. Leave your bags in the car (for now)
On arrival, take a moment to check in first. Leave the luggage in the car, grab your key, and then carry everything in once. Your future self will thank you.
5. Bella Vista Motel reception is not open 24/7
Bella Vista motels are owner-operated and the owners live on site, but they do occasionally sleep. If you expect to arrive later than the posted office hours, just give your host a heads-up so they can make arrangements.
6. Check-out time is 10 o'clock
In New Zealand motels, 10am checkout is standard practice. Need a little extra time? Just ask your host — if it’s possible, they’ll happily help.
7. Drying Dishes, please
A small cultural note: in New Zealand we wash dishes, dry them with a tea towel, and then put them away. Putting wet dishes straight back in the cupboard is frowned upon… mostly by the next guest.
8. Discover the electric blanket
Electric blankets are one of New Zealand’s great winter inventions. Turn it on about an hour before bed to warm things up nicely, then switch it off when you hop in. Toasty.
9. DIY breakfast
Every Bella Vista room features a kettle and toaster, complimentary tea, coffee and milk. So feel free to add some extras and put together a half-decent breakfast before you leave.
10. Be Aware of the T&C's
Terms and Conditions sound so tedious but they are there for a reason. So it is important that you understand them once you have completed your booking. Look specifically for cancellation and amendment policies so you can be sure your booking won't become problematic.
With these tips now safely stored, head to www.bellavista.co.nz and book your next stay.