Smart Ways For Holiday Homes To Thrive Among Lockdown Restrictions

 

Since the start of the pandemic, holiday homeowners in the UK have been experiencing a roller coaster ride. While the pandemic resulted in an unprecedented lack of demand during the first half, the unprecedented summer witnessed a record number of British people searching for holiday homes in and around the UK. However, optimism for holiday homeowners was short-lived, as people had to again witness lockdowns and restrictions. Restrictions and relaxations owing to the pandemic came with travel restrictions, group size restrictions, and more. There had been an unprecedented number of last-minute bookings and cancellations. It kept the holiday homeowners on their toes. Needless to say, there is no guarantee that 2021 is going to be a harbinger of change. However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

The Current situation 

• England

According to government guidelines, all self-catering accommodations in England can start their businesses. However, holiday homeowners such as Flowery Dell Lodges in Richmond, North Yorkshire, can welcome up to six guests, or more from two households. Other holiday accommodations too can reopen. This rule has come into effect from 17th May. However, it must be kept in mind that keeping in view the new strains of the virus, the government is open to changes in guidelines. The ‘Rule of Six’ and two households allows six people, or two households, to meet indoors. It means that a maximum of six persons are allowed inside a holiday home if they are from the same household. However, Holiday homeowners can welcome people from two households in which case the number may go up. It also states that a ‘household’ may also include a support bubble.

 

• Wales

All holiday accommodations are open here, and Holiday homeowners can welcome guests from three households, even if they are extended households. The members may include a responsible adult living alone or with others as well as or 16 or 17-year-olds living alone or with others, but no adult.

Adapting to the Rule

The roadmap to recovery entails restrictions in some form or the other. They may last for a little longer than most people anticipate. You may have to cope with limited bookings so long as the rule of six and a single household continues. Unfortunately, it is the larger property owners who are likely to find the rule more harmful for them. They need to cancel bookings to stick to the rule of six and one household or up to six guests from two different households. 

For such owners such as Flowery Dell Lodges, it is a good idea to ‘downsize’ the property, by physically closing off some areas or reducing the number of available rooms. This can help you rebook certain cancelled bookings with a smaller number of guests. 

Bottom Line

People are raring to enjoy holidays, but the lockdowns and restrictions on travel and accommodation have ruined the holiday mood. Holiday homeowners too are ready to welcome guests, but the restrictions are playing spoilsport. Until the restrictions are lifted, it is a good idea to work around the restrictions and continue to be in the business.