Deciphering the directions to your villa
Of all the aspects of villa vacationing, we probably get the most complaints
about finding the house! Deciphering the owner/manager's directions can
sometimes be the biggest "adventure" of your getaway.
Avoid getting off on the wrong foot (who wants to start a vacation by
getting lost?) by doing a bit of homework before you get behind the wheel of
your rental car.
- Bring the owner/manager's name and phone number, including exact dialing
instructions (e.g., use the "0" in European city/town codes when
calling from within the country).
- Give yourself a break. If you arrive after a long plane ride and after the
sun goes down, consider spending the first night in a hotel. You'll be much
fresher in the morning.
- Before leaving home, get your hands on the most detailed map of the region
available—like the four-miles-to-the-inch maps distributed by Britain's
RAC—and compare the written directions with roads on the map. The internet
is another source of detailed maps for some regions.
- Study the map so you're familiar with the names of nearby villages/towns,
landmarks, and the general layout of the major roads.
- Review the common road signs.
- Practice a few phrases in the local language ("I am looking for the
village of . . .").
- Appoint a "navigator"—the person in your group with the best
map skills and sense of direction.
- Add an hour to the time you think it will take you to arrive. Remember,
this is a vacation!
- Keep your sense of humor. Getting there can be half the fun, even if it's
by a circuitous route! Think of it as your first day of exploring.
Spring 1999