Adventure with your furry friend: The charm of pet friendly hotels

Imagine packing your bags, loading up the car, and next to you in the back seat is your faithful four legged friend, wagging their tail with excitement. The prospect of a trip together, exploring new places, and not having to leave your pet behind is a dream for many. However, taking a pet on holiday requires a specific approach. It's not just about finding a place where they are allowed, but where they are truly welcome and feel at home. This is where the concept of pet friendly hotels plays a significant role in the travel experience.

The term 'pet friendly' can be broadly interpreted. For some, it merely means pets are permitted; for others, it means a complete experience where their animal is just as welcome as they are. In recent years, there has been a clear shift towards hotels that go beyond merely allowing pets. They embrace the presence of animals and create an environment tailored to the needs of both owner and animal.

More than just a welcome: Comfort for both humans and animals

When you choose a pet friendly hotel, there are a few things that can significantly enhance the travel experience. It goes beyond the basics, focusing on creating a comfortable, worry free stay.

• Adapted rooms: Rooms are often available on the ground floor or with easy outdoor access, which is ideal for walks and potty breaks.
• Pet amenities: Think of a comfortable dog bed, water and food bowls, and even special 'doggy treats'. These small touches make a big difference and show that animals are more than just allowed.
• Walking routes and exercise areas: Hotels near parks, forests, or with their own designated exercise areas on the premises offer plenty of opportunities for exercise. Some hotels even have maps available with designated walking routes.
• On request services: Sometimes a 'dog sitter' is available if you want to go out without your pet for a while, or contact details for local vets for emergencies.

These extras contribute to a sense of peace of mind. You don't have to worry about your pet's basic needs, because the hotel has already thought of everything.

Important considerations before departure

While the experience in a pet friendly hotel is often worry free, there are always a few things to keep in mind before you leave. This basic information helps prevent unexpected surprises once you arrive.

• Rules and restrictions: Every hotel has its own rules. Sometimes there are restrictions regarding size or breed, or pets may not be allowed in certain common areas like the restaurant. It's wise to inquire about this beforehand.
• Additional costs: Often an extra charge per night or per stay is requested for bringing a pet. These costs are intended to cover additional cleaning.
• Identification and vaccinations: Ensure your pet's identification details are up to date, and that all necessary vaccinations have been arranged, especially when traveling abroad.

Good preparation ensures that the focus can be on enjoying the trip, rather than solving problems.

Destinations that invite adventure

The world is full of beautiful places that are perfectly suited for a trip with your pet. Think of destinations with vast natural areas, such as the Ardennes, the German Eifel, or the coastal regions of the Netherlands and Belgium. The range of pet friendly options is also growing in cities. For example, in many European capitals, such as Paris and Berlin, a growing number of hotels welcome pets, often with parks or green zones in the immediate vicinity. These places offer the perfect backdrop for shared explorations and creating lasting memories.

Choosing a pet friendly hotel, perhaps with a HotelCheque, is a choice for a richer travel experience, where you can share the joy of discovery with your most loyal travel companion. It's about finding that balance between comfort, attentiveness, and a sense of freedom, so that both you and your pet can fully enjoy the journey.