The Questions to Ask Before You Book a Guest House

Start with the practical basics: what is included in the rate, what the check-in and check-out times are, whether parking is on the property and behind a gate, and what the cancellation terms are. Get the answers in writing on WhatsApp or email so there is no ambiguity later.

Then ask the questions specific to South Africa. Is there a backup generator and backup water? What is the internet speed, and is it fibre or LTE? Is the property inside a secured or boomed area? Is there someone on site overnight? These four answers separate a comfortable stay from a frustrating one, and any good host will answer them immediately.

Finally, ask about your particular trip. Early flight? Ask about a breakfast pack. Working remotely? Ask about desk space and whether the Wi-Fi reaches your room. Staying two weeks? Ask for a long-stay rate rather than accepting the nightly one. Hosts expect these questions and would far rather answer them before arrival.

You can put all of these to us directly on WhatsApp — we answer in plain language and usually within a few minutes during the day.