In the first of our new series about what holiday rental guests really want in a holiday home, we meet Lois, a past guest at Basse Copette, an idyllic gite and B&B situated in the beautiful countryside of Normandy, France.
1. What made you decide to stay at Basse Copette over the thousands of other French places to stay on the web?
Location, facilities and quality are the three things I always look for and Basse Copette had them all. Price is obviously a factor too! If we are going to France I look for something that has a French flavor and character rather than modern, Ikea furnished accommodation that could be anywhere in the world.
Comfortable beds are also a must and I have often asked the owner what the beds are like (apparently lots of people do this!) We like to have a swimming pool as our daughter (aged 12) enjoys this and it means there is always something to do (weather permitting)
2. What was the best thing about your stay at Basse Copette?
Definitely Thomas, the owner. He was so lovely and helpful and had the right balance of being there when you needed him but not interfering. He is also an amazing cook and it was great to go out for the day and not have to think about an evening meal as he cooked for us a couple of times. As a mum that is pure joy when you are on holiday! The location is lovely too – only a short drive from Calais and very peaceful.
3. Would you recommend someone else to book a stay at Basse Copette?
Yes I have no hesitation in recommending Basse Copette to others (so long as they don’t book the week we want!)
4. As a potential future renter, what do you think of the way holiday homes are presented on Getaway Earth?
I like the various search options and the fact that you can choose exactly, at least, at most. The features, activities and style are a great idea too and being able to choose more than one is helpful. I particularly like that you have a “shared pool” and “private pool” as most sites to not differentiate.
The presentation is good and navigation easy. Having lots of photos is great and they are relevant. One of my pets hates is when owners include close up photos of taps, windows, door knobs etc. which is not helpful and just very self indulgent. I want to see the rooms, the beds, the outside etc.
The map info is good and quick links to weather, activities etc very helpful – it saves me a lot of work. I also like the “Meet the owners” and think this is important particularly if they live on site.
5. Looking at the Getaway Earth website and its holiday accommodation listings, would you return to the site when looking for your next holiday rental? If not please let us know why.
Yes I would. Although the choice is limited at the moment I feel this is an honest site that offers all the information I need to find my holiday home. However, there is a lot of competition with sites such as holidayrentals, holidayletings and ownersdirect plus other more localized sites.
The level of information and quality of rentals is probably what makes you stand out from the crowd. You have also incorporated the facility to utilize social media which will help in raising awareness. You are clearly doing your research so will have a good understanding of what owners and holidaymakers want.
on June 17, 2012 at 3:54 pm
A great interview!
We have done a “Meet the Owners” interview with you, but think getting actual past guests to give feedback is a great idea. If we got the chance to visit France we’d like to visit Basse Copette – as what Lois says about the decor, the owner, the food and the private pool all resonates with us!
I am sure our past guests would be happy to give you their feedback. Can you let us know how this can be arranged?
Thanks again
Got, Thailand