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We've devoted a whole section of our site to family travel because hotel accommodations aren't always the best solution for many families on the go. Those traveling with small children—especially finicky eaters—often want the option of preparing their own meals (at their convenience, and without restaurant hassles) as well as the ability to do their own laundry. They also prefer access to refrigerators (perfect for keeping the bottle cold!), cribs, high chairs and baby-sitting services. Family travelers also need more living space than other travelers (especially when traveling with the extended family), but cannot always afford the luxury of reserving two adjoining hotel rooms. Parents may wish to enjoy some much-deserved evening privacy—often not possible when children are sharing sleeping rooms. And finally, families are often on a tight budget and are looking for affordable accommodations— and relief from restaurant bills that can run $15 per person, just for a continental breakfast! As noted by such publications as Good Housekeeping, Traveling with Your Children, Family Travel Times and Family Fun, Barclay International Group (BIG) has the perfect alternative for families seeking spacious, private and competitively priced accommodations in England, France, Italy and other popular destinations for stays of three nights or longer—short- term, serviced apartment/villa/cottage rentals. These accommodations will leave families wondering if they ever left their own front door. They will be greeted by name by everyone from the housekeeping staff to the front desk clerk. They will have the choice of eating out or preparing their own meals in their own kitchen. They will enjoy the luxury of spreading out and having the kids play in their own living room and then later, sinking back into an overstuffed sofa and relaxing, surrounded by the comforts and charm of a fine home. Laundry facilities are often included either in the accommodation itself or in the building, so that parents who don't mind doing a wash or two can cut back on the clothes they pack for their journey. Cribs and high chairs can normally be provided free or at nominal charge and baby-sitting can be arranged locally by the property in question. Some accommodations come complete with video-cassette players; in other locations, they can be rented for a small additional charge. Best of all, travelers will be able to enjoy all this for as little as half the cost of comparably-appointed upscale hotels. In fact, in many cases, a family of four (two adults, two children) can stay at one of BIG's one-bedroom apartments for less than if they had reserved a single hotel room at a discounted rate. What great news for business travelers, for example, who don't want to leave the family behind for extended periods of time! Apartments and villas are also excellent choices for reunion locations. Those who want to congregate in major cities can reserve several multi-bedroom apartments in the same complex. Reunion planners who prefer a more rustic location can reserve villas that can sleep up to 20 persons or more! Whether your next trip is for business, vacation or for a reunion, our Destinations section will lead you to the country of your choice, with links to specific properties, supplemental services and prices to help guide you to your perfect vacation stay. And by filling out our Booking Form, you can secure the accommodations, sight-seeing, and other services that are guaranteed to delight the entire family! |