Frequently Asked Questions

What is Holiday Stays?

Holiday Stays is a search engine for South African holiday accommodation. We automatically index information that properties publish on their own websites — and live rates where a property's booking system is connected — so you can discover and compare places to stay in one place, then book directly with the property. We are not a booking platform and take no commission on bookings.

How did my property get listed?

Listings are created automatically by indexing your establishment's own public website, the same way a general search engine indexes web pages. Each listing shows which website it was created from and when it was last indexed.

As the owner or manager you can take control of your listing at any time via the "claim it and update it" link shown on the listing page.

My property isn't listed — how do I get it added?

Email us at [email protected] with your establishment's website URL and we will index it. Two requirements:

1. You must have your own website featuring your establishment — we do not list social media pages or pages on other booking platforms.
2. Email us from an address associated with your establishment's domain, as a verification precaution.

Note: Suitable properties are usually indexed and live within a few days, and we'll confirm by email.

Is there a cost to be listed?

No — listings are completely free, and being listed is never conditional on paying us anything. We are preparing to launch optional paid upgrades for property owners (such as premium placement); these will only ever affect how a listing is presented and ranked, never whether it is listed.

How do I update my listing?

We periodically re-index your website, so changes you make there should reflect on your listing automatically. To make changes directly, use the claim link on your listing page, or email us at [email protected] and we will make the changes manually.

Note: You must email us from the establishment's email account as a verification precaution.

How do I remove my listing?

Use the "claim it and update it" link on your listing page, or email [email protected] with your property name or website URL. Removal is free, we will unpublish the listing, and we mark the property so future indexing does not re-publish it. See our Privacy Policy for your rights over any personal information involved.

What types of accommodations do you list?

We index a variety of accommodation types, including:

• Hotels
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Holiday Rentals and Vacation Homes
• Guesthouses and Lodges
• Hostels and Backpacker Accommodations
• Boutique and Luxury Properties

How do I make a booking?

We are a search engine, not a booking platform — all bookings are made directly with the property:

1. Browse our listings — find properties that match your needs
2. Go direct — follow the link to the property's own website or booking engine
3. Or send an enquiry — where a listing has an enquiry form, we forward your message and contact details to the property by email and they reply to you directly

What are my responsibilities as a user?

As a user of our platform, you are responsible for:

• Verifying all information — confirm prices, availability, and terms directly with the property
• Travel documentation — ensure you have valid passports, visas, and identification
• Travel insurance — protect yourself against cancellations, illness, or other travel risks
• Understanding terms — read and understand each property's specific terms and conditions

What if I have a problem with my booking?

Since bookings are made directly with accommodation providers, any issues must be resolved with them directly. We recommend:

• Contacting the property immediately if problems arise
• Keeping records of all communications
• Reviewing the property's cancellation and refund policies
• Seeking resolution through appropriate consumer protection channels if needed

Note: Holiday Stays does not handle bookings, payments, or disputes between guests and accommodation providers.