• Before going make sure you check all your paper work – many of the problems you might encounter while away can be resolved by spending 20 minutes a few days before departure checking everything is as you want.  Things to look out for include air conditioning, pool heating, car hire etc.
• Take all the telephone numbers with you for the management company etc and bring the holiday confirmation and directions with you.
• If you have changed your own numbers or will have a different telephone number whilst away let your travel agent or tour operators know.
• Take your own pool towels as these are often not supplied
• Pool heating is usually an additional extra when renting a villa. Not all properties have this facility and there is usually a charge for this which is dependant on the property being rented. Normally, the minimum period for pool heating is seven days and thereafter the charge will be pro rota.
• Make sure you close and lock doors and windows if you go out and don’t leave windows and doors open at the front of the house if you are around the back and vice versa! Most burglars are opportunists who would not go to any great effort to thieve, but if your wallet is on the window sill in the kitchen and they can see it and reach it while they are walking by they will take it! Act like you would at home!
• If possible book a car to allow you more freedom to explore the resort and surrounding areas.
• A food pack on arrival will also help you to settle in particularly if you are arriving late at night.  You can then relax with a cup of tea or a glass of wine rather than having to find a supermarket.
• If you have a complaint about a villa property, let the management company or whoever you have been instructed to speak to, know as soon as possible as they will do all they can to help.  This will ensure that they are given every opportunity to put things right for you whilst you are still on holiday.

If you have any other top tips please leave a comment.