Frequently Asked Questions
Booking a villa holiday is a significant decision, and we believe everything should be clear from the start. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about booking, payments, cancellations, security deposits and what to expect during your stay.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help.
A deposit secures your dates and removes the property from the market. Villas are in high demand and owners won’t reserve them without a confirmed payment. Your deposit also allows us to lock in the agreed price and start the booking process with the supplier.
Our standard payment schedule is 30% deposit to secure the booking, with the remaining balance due 10 weeks before arrival.
If you book within 10 weeks of arrival, the full amount is typically due at the time of booking.
Please note: some suppliers set their own schedules, so the exact payment dates and rules will always be shown clearly at checkout and in your confirmation.
It’s part-payment toward your holiday and confirms your intent to book. Once paid, we can proceed to final confirmation with the supplier and issue your booking paperwork.
Cancellation terms vary by villa and supplier. Some bookings are non-refundable, while others have staged cancellation charges. Your exact cancellation terms will be displayed at checkout and confirmed in writing.
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers cancellation for unexpected events.
Most villas require a security deposit as protection against accidental damage, missing items, or extra cleaning. It’s standard in the villa industry and is usually refundable after departure, subject to an inspection.
This depends on the property. Some suppliers take it as a pre-authorisation on a card, some take it as a separate payment before arrival, and some collect it locally on check-in. We’ll confirm the method and timing for your specific villa.
Yes — we regularly run offers on selected villas, and some owners also provide discounts for longer stays or off-peak periods. If you’re flexible on dates, we can also suggest villas where better value is available.
Please forward the details to info@bnbstay.co.uk. If the supplier confirms the discount, we’ll apply it properly to your booking so your confirmation documents match the agreed rate.
We can’t recommend one specific provider, but we strongly advise comprehensive travel insurance that covers: cancellation, medical, travel disruption, and personal liability. If you’re travelling with a large group or for an event (e.g. a wedding), make sure your policy covers that too.
Sometimes, yes — and these vary by property and destination. Common extras can include: local tourist taxes, pool heating, extra housekeeping, late arrivals, or event fees. Where we’re aware of extras, we’ll flag them clearly before you confirm.
Typically, villa rental prices are shown as the total cost for your stay. VAT treatment can vary depending on the supplier and location. If VAT applies separately, it will be shown clearly on your invoice/checkout.
No — because Bnbstay arranges villa accommodation only and does not sell flight-inclusive package holidays. ATOL protection applies to packages that include flights. We recommend travel insurance for added peace of mind.
For privacy and security. Villas are private homes and we protect owners and guests by not publishing exact addresses publicly. You’ll receive full arrival details once your booking is confirmed.
Some owners request a marketing name for privacy or branding. The villa name you see on our website is the one we use consistently across your booking documents.
We include approximate travel times in listings where possible. If you tell us your preferred airport or arrival method, we can confirm the best route and estimated transfer time.
It depends on the location. Some villas are walkable to restaurants and shops, while others are more secluded. If you share your plans (relaxing villa stay vs exploring), we’ll advise what works best.
Yes — depending on destination and supplier support. We can recommend trusted local partners and help coordinate bookings such as boat trips, excursions, or private tours.
Often yes. Many villas can arrange private chefs, BBQ catering, or meal delivery — subject to availability and local rules.
In many areas, yes. We can help arrange pre-arrival shopping, welcome hampers, or grocery delivery if the supplier supports it.
Some villas allow weddings/events, others do not. If events are permitted, there may be extra fees, stricter occupancy rules, higher deposits, or supplier approval required. Always ask before booking if this matters.
We don’t arrange flights directly — we focus on villa accommodation. However, we can share guidance on the nearest airports and best routes.
Yes, in many destinations we can recommend or arrange trusted transfer providers, especially for larger groups.
In some locations we can connect you with local childcare services, subject to availability and local regulations. This is usually arranged directly with the provider.
Yes — tell us what you have in mind (cake, decorations, balloons, champagne, etc.) and we’ll advise what’s possible at your villa.
Many villas are family-friendly, but suitability varies (open pools, steep steps, balconies, etc.). If you’re travelling with young children, tell us ages and we’ll guide you toward the safest options.
Yes. Maximum occupancy normally includes children and infants, unless the supplier states otherwise.
Some villas provide them free, some on request, and some for an extra charge. Availability can be limited, so please request these early.
Some villas allow pets, many do not. Pet-friendly rules vary by owner (size, number, extra cleaning, deposit, restricted areas). If this is important, ask before booking so we can confirm exact rules.
Pool safety varies widely (no fences, infinity edges, steps, depth changes). Children must always be supervised. If you need specific safety features, ask before booking.
Some villas offer pool heating, others don’t. Heating is often an extra cost and must be requested in advance.
“Heated” doesn’t always mean “hot.” In cooler months, pool heating improves comfort but can’t guarantee a fixed temperature because weather conditions affect heat retention.
Usually yes, but some destinations have seasonal pool availability, maintenance schedules, or safety rules. If there are restrictions, we’ll confirm them.
Bnbstay operates as a booking agent. Your rental contract is primarily with the property owner or local management company (the supplier). We facilitate the booking process, payments (where applicable), and pre-arrival support.
Most do not, but a small number of properties may have an owner or caretaker living nearby or on the grounds (in a separate area). If this applies, it should be stated on the listing — and you can always ask us to confirm.
In most cases, yes — but not always. If English-speaking support is essential, tell us and we’ll confirm for that specific villa.
Most villas provide an information pack or local recommendations. Some also have a concierge/local manager who can assist during the stay.
Only if the supplier explicitly allows it in writing. Many villas have strict no-party rules. If events are permitted, additional fees, deposits, and guest limits often apply.
Bed sizes can vary by country and property. We’ll confirm exact configurations if it’s important to your group.
This depends on destination — beaches, boat trips, hiking, wine tours, water sports, family attractions, nightlife, etc. Tell us your vibe and we’ll recommend the best areas.
Most villas have set check-in/check-out times for cleaning schedules. Flexibility depends on availability either side of your stay. If you need early check-in or late check-out, ask and we’ll request it.
Some do, some don’t, and sometimes it’s only in bedrooms. The listing should state this, but if it’s essential, we’ll confirm for your villa.
We may record or monitor calls for training, quality assurance, and to help resolve any disputes. This also helps us make sure we capture booking details accurately.
Still Have Questions?
If you need any further clarification before booking your villa, our team is happy to assist.
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Email: info@bnbstay.co.uk
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Phone: 442 0392 58646
We aim to respond to all enquiries promptly.