When it comes to seaside holidays, the choice between a residence and a holiday village can make a big difference to the overall experience. But what exactly are these differences? The answer is simple: in a residence, you book a mini-apartment located close to the sea, with the possibility of taking advantage of contracted services, such as the beach or certain restaurants, which are, however, not included in the price of the accommodation.

In a tourist village, on the other hand, you book accommodation that may be similar to that of a residence, but with an all-inclusive formula that includes services such as a swimming pool, restaurants, sports activities and entertainment. In the holiday village, you become part of a community of people who have chosen an all-inclusive holiday.

What are the main differences between a residence and a holiday village?

When choosing between a residence and a holiday village, there are several considerations to make. 

Let us see what the five main differences are:

1. The accommodation is different.

In residences, accommodation typically consists of a self-contained mini-apartment, often with a kitchen and independent space. This gives you the freedom to organise your meals and manage your schedule as you wish. 

In holiday resorts, on the other hand, accommodation may vary, but it is usually rooms or flats with access to all the village facilities. The management of timetables and meals is more structured, as most of the activities are organised by the resort.

2.One of the most obvious differences concerns the services offered. 

Residences usually only offer accommodation, with some basic services such as cleaning or access to restaurants and beaches, but everything is generally charged separately. 

In tourist resorts, on the other hand, it is common to find an all-inclusive package including swimming pool, restaurants, sports activities, entertainment, and often excursions. This formula offers greater convenience for those who wish to have everything at their fingertips without having to think about additional costs.

3.The type of holiday varies significantly between the two options. 

In holiday villages, you have a more community experience, with group activities and entertainment that encourage social interaction. It is the ideal place for those who enjoy meeting new people and participating in organised events. 

In residences, on the other hand, the experience is more independent and private, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and more control over their daily routine.

4. Flexibility is another crucial aspect. 

With a residence, you have more freedom to customise your holiday, deciding if and when to use external services. This option is ideal for those who like to explore the area on their own and do not want to be bound by set timetables. 

In contrast, a holiday village is subject to scheduled hours and activities, which can be convenient for those who want a worry-free holiday.

5. The overall cost can vary considerably. 

Residences tend to be cheaper, especially if one considers only accommodation and is willing to manage meals and activities oneself. 

Resorts, while having a higher initial price, offer an all-inclusive formula that can be convenient for those who want to take advantage of all the services offered. 

It is to be evaluated what you decide to take advantage of, because the risk is to pay for services that you do not use.

What is a ‘residence formula’ in a holiday village?

Unlike the classic residence option, the residence formula within the holiday village, however, gives you the opportunity to freely organise your meals, as well as the cleaning of the premises. Plus, you have the advantage of more freedom, but you do not rest from the usual activities you do at home.

How are flats in a holiday village structured?

The flat in a residence formula is usually equipped with a kitchenette, bathroom, and bedroom. Options can vary significantly depending on your needs. If, for example, you have a family of four, what you will need is a two-room apartment. The choice is entirely up to you.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the residence formula compared to all-inclusive resorts?

When comparing the choice of holiday villages and the residence formula, there are both advantages and disadvantages. Let us look at them together: 

Advantages of the residence formula

1. freedom - you organise your holiday according to your own schedule. You have no constraints;
2. privacy - this type of formula offers a more intimate and independent experience;
3. lower costs - potentially this formula will cost you less.

Disadvantages of the residence formula

1. services not included - restaurant, swimming pools and/or recreational activities are not included in the price of accommodation;
2. absence of social interaction - for some this could be considered an advantage, but if you want to socialise, this is the wrong formula;
3. organisation of the holiday independently - you decide what to do, at when, and if you have children, you are the one who has to think about how to entertain them.

When choosing between a residence and a holiday village, there are several considerations to make in order to find the solution that best suits your holiday needs. 

The residence formula offers the possibility of staying in flats, townhouses or a holiday condominium, with a kitchen or kitchenette to prepare your own meals. 

This option is ideal for those who want a more flexible management of the pace of their holiday, without being tied to fixed timetables or menus as is the case in all-inclusive villages or villages with meals included.

Holiday villages, on the other hand, offer a more structured and comfort-rich experience, with the possibility of dining in a restaurant within a resort without having to think about meal preparation. 

Entertainment services, evening live music and cabaret shows, as well as nature and sea excursions are included in the package, guaranteeing continuous entertainment and a high level of service. 

However, those opting for a residence may actually benefit from a more affordable price, especially if they are willing to personally take care of the flat cleaning and organise their own activities, avoiding additional costs for services that would not be fully utilised.

Frequently asked questions & answers

What services are generally included in a holiday village residence formula?

In a residence formula holiday village, the services included can vary, but usually include access to common areas such as swimming pools, sports fields, and sometimes even entertainment activities. 

Some resorts offer additional services such as beach access, children's play areas and, in some cases, evening entertainment programmes. However, catering services and specific activities may be charged separately.

How is the cleaning of the flat in a holiday village managed?

The management of flat cleaning in a holiday resort in residence formula varies depending on the resort. 

Some villages offer a daily or weekly cleaning service included in the price, while others may charge an additional fee for this service. In some cases, only the final cleaning service at the end of the stay may be provided, leaving the guests responsible for keeping the flat clean during their holiday.

What are the price differences between a residence and a holiday village?

The price differences between a residence and a holiday village can be significant and depend on various factors, such as location, season, services offered and level of comfort. In general, a residence tends to have a lower price than a holiday village, as it offers fewer inclusive services.

However, when considering meal expenses, activities and extra services, the all-inclusive formula of a resort may be more affordable for those who want an all-inclusive holiday.

What catering options are available in a residence compared to a holiday village?

In a residence, dining options are generally limited to the use of the kitchen or kitchenette in the flat, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. 

Some residences may have restaurants or bars nearby, but these are not included in the price of the stay. In a holiday village, on the other hand, it is common to find in-house restaurants offering meals included in the holiday package, often with set times and fixed or buffet menus, allowing guests not to worry about preparing meals.

What recreational activities are available in a residence compared to a holiday village?

The recreational activities available in a residence can be more limited than in a holiday village. In residences, activities depend on the location and may include access to beaches, swimming pools, and sometimes sports fields, but often these activities are not organised and require self-management by guests. 

In a resort, on the other hand, it is common to find a full programme of recreational activities, which may include group sports, entertainment, organised excursions, evening shows, and more, with everything already arranged and included in the holiday package.

What are the differences in booking policies between a residence and a holiday village?

Reservation policies can vary considerably for both residences and holiday villages. In general, residences offer more flexibility, with the possibility of booking shorter stays and fewer restrictions in terms of check-in and check-out times. 

Resorts, especially all-inclusive ones, may require minimum stays, especially during the high season, and may have stricter policies regarding cancellations and booking changes. In both cases, it is advisable to check the specific booking conditions of the chosen resort.

30.08.2024