I’ve been active in the travel and tourism sector for a number of years and the one thing that still worries me the most is the amount of false marketing and advertising when it comes to hotels, guesthouses, lodges and other getaway locations. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve reserved holiday accommodation at a place that looks totally gorgeous on the leaflets (at a price tag to match!) and then come to a rundown venue with below average amenities in a dodgy part of town!

In case you are researching joburg hotels for your upcoming visit to Johannesburg, there is just one single word that I would like to bring to your attention: Research, research, research!

The internet is a fantastic method to obtain enough detailed information in a relatively short time. But be mindful, appearance can be misleading! Do not come to a decision on a specific hotel or holiday destination solely by browsing the establishment’s website!

A great way to narrow your search down fast is by means of an overnight accommodation portal. By looking at one of these online sites you can quickly contrast and compare as many joburg hotels as you require. It is possible to generally sort the hotels according to price range, facilities, comforts and even quality ratings. Once you’ve narrowed your selection down to a few, it is a wise decision to then proceed to the individual website pages of each hotel. A professional looking web site is already a good indication that the hotel is not hesitant to put money into a professional image.

By spending some time on the webpage you will also get a more comprehensive overall feeling of the hotel, as the accommodation websites sometimes tend to be a bit fundamental. When you’ve familiarized yourself with your 5 top hotels your search should then carry on.

Perform a search for reviews on the joburg hotels in question. Many portals also offer the functionality of customer write-ups and reviews and it is fundamental to view as many of these reviews as you can get your hands on. Referral marketing is one of the most effective ways of recommending or warning against a certain service or product.

Remember to also check into the conveniences at the hotel. Not all hotels have eating places and pools – never assume that a specific facility will be available. Also question the points of interest and activities in the area – no one visits a hotel with the aim of spending day in and day out at the hotel.

The most affordable way to book your hotel is normally by working with the hotel directly. Having said that, many accommodation web sites now offer the booking service without charging more – if the website explicitly states that this is the situation you are of course more than welcome to book this way, but if unsure, contact the hotel directly.

Joburg hotels offer something for each taste, demand and budget. Make certain you research your options thoroughly and then enjoy a well-deserved break in the vibrant city of Johannesburg!