Today, e-mail has basically replaced snail mail. Within seconds we can send messages to people on the other side of the world. It’s truly amazing. We use our e-mail accounts to place orders, communicate with loved ones, and sign up for stuff. We can also use it to make reservations for travel accommodations. In fact, e-mail can be as effective as other methods for such tasks, such as travel agents and phones. But like those other methods, it’s important to know the ins and outs of making reservations for accommodations via e-mail. Taking the wrong steps could result in all types of problems, and in a worst case scenario—prevent our reservation from being made. Here are some helpful tips to prevent such an event from happening:
1. Know the steps of the process
When making a reservation for travel accommodations via e-mail, it’s important not to put the cart before the horse, so to speak. First, you should verify if rooms are available on the dates that you’ll be travelling to your destination. Also, ask for the latest prices, since they tend to fluctuate quite frequently. If you prefer to stay in a certain type of accommodation, ask if it’s indeed available when you’ll be staying in the accommodation. After you get all this information, you’re ready to make reservations from Date A to Date B. The next step is to secure a confirmation from your country’s embassy, if you’ll be traveling abroad. In order for them to give you a confirmation, you’ll need to provide certain details (such as the passport details for each visitor). Finally, make an inquiry about the accommodation’s cancellation policy, and directions to the lodging.
2. Send 1-2 questions at a time when not writing in the receiver’s native language
This is critical when sending an e-mail to make reservations for a travel accommodation. After you send the questions, wait until the receiver sends answers to your particular questions. Send 1-2 more questions, and then repeat the process until all of your questions have been asked. The big benefit of this approach is that it can prevent large delays in your questions being answered.
3. Don’t personal financial info through e-mail
This includes various types of information, such as your credit card details. When you send such information through e-mail, there’s a fairly high chance that it could be intercepted by a third party. Instead, it’s better to submit your personal financial info on the accommodation’s secure website. Make sure that a secure server is used. Look for a small padlock icon on your search engine. Also, the web address should start with https://. If you don’t see this in the address, then it’s time to take your business elsewhere.
Before you depart for your travel destination, consider making accommodation reservations through e-mail. It’s fast and simple. By following the above-mentioned tips, you’ll be able to do it as effectively as possible. When you’re resting or sleeping comfortably in your accommodation, you can be certain that you’ve made the right choice.