Work out which part of Croatia you would like to visit. Decide if you want a ‘package’ or more independent travel. If you are after a package holiday, contact your local travel agent, who should have a range of villa-rental holiday options. These normally include flights and transfers to your chosen villa, maid service, and insurance.
Contact villa owners directly if you would prefer a more independent holiday. Bear in mind you will have to make your own travel arrangements, and there is often no guarantee the property will be up to standard. Most private owners in Croatia require a deposit of around 30 to 75 percent on booking. Credit cards are the accepted method of payment.
Decide whether you want to be centrally located in a town, or further afield in the countryside. The countryside is generally quieter, but you will probably need to hire a car to get around, or rely on local transport. Some villages in Croatia are very remote, and the locals are unlikely to speak English. The roads are reasonably good, but public transport can be slow and uncomfortable.
Ask for references and more pictures of the villa you are interested in and its physical address. This way you can look it up on a local map of the area to check if the location is suitable for your needs. If you don’t want to hire a car, for instance, you will need to be close to local amenities for shopping and sightseeing.
Make sure you know what is included in the price. Check if the electricity and water, maid service and pool cleaning are included, and if the property has its own swimming pool. Ask if there is a local representative who speaks English that you can contact if you need anything.
Remember, Croatia is a seasonal holiday destination and most of the resorts close down by mid-September. The weather is still good at that time of year, but many of the restaurants and water activities will be shut for the winter season.
