UK Ferry Tickets

I spent the last bank holiday weekend lying on the beach in glorious sunshine, before enjoying a relaxing evening in our accommodation, which was clean, modern and great value-for-money.

Nothing unusual there – until I tell you that it was in England, just outside Bournemouth.

Many readers complain to me that UK holidays are often overpriced and service levels are poor. Fair points. But when we get it right, England can be the best country in the world.

We stayed in a bed-and-breakfast house and I think it was the first one I’ve ever stayed in that was modern and with fresh decor. The rooms had plasma televisions and CDs and the service was excellent, without being intrusive.

At £35 per person per night I thought it was great value. But it’s not that hard to impress. If I’d checked in and found the shower room dirty, or an old television in the corner of the room, I’d have thought it a rip-off.

Why was the place I stayed in the exception rather than the rule? Do we just accept poor standards in the UK? Or am I off the mark because there are thousands of decent bed-and-breakfasts around if you look for them?

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore

Sunday, September 30th, 2007