OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION FOR SQUASH PLAYERS

Many squash players will find that, on occasion, they require overnight accommodation while playing in an event of one kind or another. Accommodation basically comes in three categories.

Firstly, part of the ‘package’ around an event may be a deal with one local hotel which is designated as the official ‘event’ hotel, often with a special financial deal negotiated by the event organiser and/or the host club, and which all players requiring accommodation are encouraged to use to enhance the social aspect of the event. Details will be given as part of the information about the event.

Secondly, locally owned and run hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfast establishments reasonably close to the squash club and known to the staff of the club. The club may produce a list of local establishments, and, in some cases recommend and/or negotiate special deals with one or more of them. Some squash clubs are part of larger health and leisure clubs (eg the Village chain) which have accommodation as part of their facilities, and may offer special rates for visiting players.

Thirdly, there are a number of hotel chains which offer a variety of facilities ranging from room only to full board (although in the case of room only, such as Travelodge, they are usually adjacent to a restaurant such as a Little Chef). Most of these offer a rate per room which makes it cheaper for two people sharing.

The major ones are as follows

TRAVELODGE www.travelodge.co.uk Most squash clubs will have a Travelodge reasonably close. They offer a good size ensuite room with basic facilities (tea making, TV etc.) and often offer a good deal if booked in advance – rooms can be obtained for £29, £19 and even £9 per night! The standard charge is £50+. It is worth going on their website and registering to be kept informed of future offers.

PREMIER TRAVEL INN www.premiertravelinn.com Like Travelodge, they have full country coverage, and are slightly more upmarket (eg you get biscuits with the tea!) but don’t seem to do special offers. They start at £48 per night. Again, they do not include breakfast, but there is usually a pub or restaurant next door which is open for breakfast.

INNKEEPERS LODGES www.innkeeperslodge.com This chain does not have the extensive coverage of the two above, but nevertheless there are Lodges within striking range of many of the major squash venues. They offer good quality ensuite rooms with satellite TV, but the ensuite is a shower without a bath. They do, however, include a continental breakfast in the adjacent restaurant (usually a Toby Inn), which offers a wide range of cereals, fruit, toast etc. Rooms, including breakfast, start at £29.95 per night, and they often have a three nights for two offer which makes it good value, especially for two people sharing.

Depending upon your pocket, inclination and location, there are a number of other chains, although none are as extensive as the three above. These include

Ibishotel.com

Campanile.com

ChoiceHotels.com

Daysinn.com

Gtahotels.com

Swallowhotels.com

Marriott.co.uk

Macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Holidayinn.co.uk

Devere.co.uk

Village-hotels.co.uk

Foliohotels.com

Premierinn.com

Thistlehotels.com

If you are aware that a hotel which is part of one of these chains is located near the playing venue, it is then worth going on to the website to check out the deals. It is also worth registering with www.hotelshopuk.com, although it is a matter of chance as to whether one of their cutprice offers coincides with where you want to be at a particular time.

MBC/Jan2008