Why Book Direct?

When planning your vacation, many simply migrate to the options provided by large, third party vacation rental booking giants like Airbnb, VRBO and HomeAway.  In today’s vacation market booking direct will not only save you money but provide you a much better experience.

Book Direct to save money.

Did you know that the large booking sites add hundreds of dollars of fees to your booking total?  You will usually be guaranteed the lowest pricing available by booking direct.  This is a real comparison of a vacation rental search for the same property using the same requested six-night stay.

Actual price comparison

Book Direct to have better contact with the manager or owner.

Did you know that the large booking sites discourage any direct contact between owner and guest?  Emails and phone numbers are blocked in the messenger text between parties on the booking site platforms.  Booking direct gives you much greater access and personal connection when you have a question or an issue.  If you have a change in your needs or if you delayed, you will have the ability to immediately interact with the owner and manager who will be taking care of you.  If you have any personal requests or special needs, you will need the firsthand contact with the owner or manager to assist you.  In addition, reimbursements to the guest due to cancellations and simple return of security deposits have been delayed weeks and even months from the booking company, not from the owner, due to the financial troubles they are finding themselves in.  One booking site is reported to holding the reimbursed security deposit 14 days from checkout.  Some guests are reporting that their refunds from cancellations are delayed weeks after the owner released the funds.  Booking direct will remove the third party company and ensure you quicker, more personal results.

Book Direct to get the most in-depth knowledge of your place of destination.  

When traveling you often have questions about the area.  Where is the closest grocery store?  What are the good restaurants around?  Where do I find the best deal?  Booking direct gives you the local knowledge to help you plan your trip and feel comfortable when you arrive.  And in doing so, you are supporting the small local businesses that play an important role in the community.

How do I find options to book direct?

The best ways to find vacation rental options that book direct are through social media, internet searches, and personal referral.  There are many Facebook groups designed to publish direct booking options any many are tailored for specific areas.  Look for the websites of these properties within their post and their Facebook page.  Ask your friends if they have any experiences to offer.  And, once you find that great experience booking direct, share your thoughts with others.  Word of mouth is always the most reliable form of advertising.


Looking to take a vacation in the beautiful Riviera Maya, Mexico?   Vista del Mar, in Playa del Carmen, is a spacious two bedroom condo (sleeps six) with easy walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and the exquisite beaches of the Caribbean.  The rooftop deck and pool provides views of the sea and Playa.  Click here for more information.