Here in the UK autumn has now quickly descended into winter and the big chill is really starting to bite. The cold, wind and rain can really get you down, so if you’re feeling those end-of-year blues, why not banish them by booking next years summer holiday. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about those long, sun-filled days, both home & abroad.

Not only will you cheer yourself up and have something to look forward to in 2013, you’ll also guarantee the best possible selection of holiday homes with your first choice of dates, which is crucial if you have school-aged children and can only book fduring the school holidays. Or, if you are planning a holiday away with family and friends booking early is crucial when trying to co-ordinate dates, finding availability to suit everyone can be tricky if you leave it too late.

Few (if any) other types of holiday accommodation can offer the same privacy, freedom and space at the same price as self catering holiday home. You’ll be able to make the place your own while you’re there, and enjoy all the comforts you have at home, from a fully equipped kitchen to a range of entertainment options e.g. DVDs, board games, and computer games for the kids. And a holiday home is ideal for young children, who will have plenty of room to run around safely and holiday homes usually offer cots and high chairs as well as toys and books so you don't need to pack the proverbial kitchen sink!

Blue Sea market a number of properties here in the UK predominately in the South Hams, Devon, but we also represent a property in West Wittering, near Chichester, West Sussex and a stunning 3-bedroom villa in South-West France.

The largest property in South Devon is Paxdene, a 4-bedroomed house in stylish Salcombe which sleeps up to 9 people.  Next is the one and only Kingsgrove, a beach-side cottage sleeping up to 7 people with its own boathouse and moorings. Waves is a spacious duplex apartment near Dartmouth with sea-views sleeping up to 5 people, and nearby Top Deck is a fabulous 1-bedroom barn conversion in the heart of the coastal village of Stoke Fleming, which sleep 2 with another 2 on the sofabed.  3 Prospect House is a New England style apartment perched on the cliff high above Start Bay with outstanding views. This 2-bedroom apartment sleeps up to 4 and has a swimming pool and tennis court.

Spinningdale is a  spectacular West Wittering coastal house which offers the very best of seaside chic and countryside living. It has been carefully designed, stylish yet practical for a family or larger group and it sleeps up to 10. Situated on the "Estate" only seconds walk from the surf. And last, but by no means least is Maison Vailhan, located in South-West France close to Bezier and Montpellier. This 3-bedroom villa has been immaculately renovated with exquisite attention to detail. Both the garden and house boast beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards hills beyond and it has a stylish pool and two terraces perfect for lazy days in the sunshine and dining alfresco.

Renting your own holiday home can be also be a cost effective holiday option. Unlike a hotel or B&B you can spend more time at your "home away from home", without having to go on costly days out. And with good kitchen facilities, including a good-sized fridge, you can buy all your own food and drinks, rather than having to dip into your wallet every time someone fancies a drink or quick bite to eat.  Shop locally, take some of your own stuff, eat in, eat out, pack up a picnic grab a takeaway – the choice is yours!

Wintry British skies and temperatures will be much easier to tolerate if you know you've got a lovely summer holiday planned in 2013, so get booking today!

They say that looks aren't everything.... Sadly thats not true when it comes to Holiday Letting your home, as then looks ARE everything, and your potential guests want to see a light, spacious, clean and stylish home in the pictures they see when deciding where to book their holiday and in reality on arrival at the start of their holiday.


The main DO's and DONT's are as follows:-

DO keep decor neutral. A neutral colour scheme isn't likely to put anyone off, while brightly painted walls may not be to everyone's taste. Ultimately you want your holiday home to have mass appeal.

DO accessorise and accentuate with colour. Use stronger colours on smaller items throughout the home, such as throws, rugs and cushions.

DO opt for quality, durable furnishings. Not only will these last longer, but they will look more attractive to holidaymakers than cheaper alternatives.

DO put yourself in the shoes of your guests. Think about what you would like to find on arrival at a holiday home and use that to guide you. 

DON'T leave your own clutter lying about. Designate a lockable cupboard where you can store your personal belongings while you're letting your holiday home to guests.

DON'T go over the top with cutting edge design. Unless you're targeting the top end of the market, stick to simple elegance and durable furnishings.

The important thing is that your home is a "home from home" for your guests, somewhere they want to be come rain or shine!   For more advice and assistance in updating your home email us today info@blueseadevon.com.