Avstays.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Avstays.co.uk appears to be a legitimate platform offering serviced apartments and holiday homes across the UK, primarily focusing on London, Kent, and Liverpool.

They emphasize providing a “home away from home” experience for various needs, including business stays, relocations, holiday lets, and emergency accommodation.

The site highlights features like flexibility for short and long-term stays, value for money compared to traditional hotels, high cleanliness standards, and essential amenities such as Wi-Fi and Smart TVs.

While the concept of short-term accommodation itself is permissible, the website explicitly mentions “Smart TVs with streaming services” and “Media room,” which often involve content that may not align with Islamic principles regarding modesty and entertainment. Businessshop.o2.co.uk Reviews

Furthermore, services like “Boat trips” and “Spa Center” are listed among amenities, which, depending on their execution, could also include impermissible elements.

The platform positions itself as a practical alternative to hotels, aiming to provide more space and privacy.

They offer direct booking benefits, such as lower prices compared to third-party platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, and promise prompt customer service.

For individuals or families seeking temporary lodging, a service like Avstays.co.uk could be beneficial, but users must exercise caution and diligence.

It’s crucial to thoroughly vet the specific property and its offerings to ensure they align with Islamic values. Shopbitcoin.com.au Reviews

For instance, ensuring that entertainment options can be bypassed or that facilities like spas offer segregated, private access is essential.

The core service of providing lodging is acceptable, but the auxiliary features and content should be carefully reviewed to avoid anything that falls into forbidden categories.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Avstays.co.uk Review & First Look

Based on an initial review of Avstays.co.uk, the website presents itself as a professional and user-friendly platform for booking serviced apartments and holiday homes in key UK locations.

The interface is clean, with prominent “Book Now” calls to action and clear navigation.

They immediately highlight their core offering: self-catering accommodation for various purposes, from business travel to family holidays.

Website Navigation and User Experience

The navigation bar is straightforward, featuring links to “Book now,” “About us,” “Contact us,” and sections for different locations.

The homepage prominently displays various property listings with key details like guest capacity, number of bedrooms, and bathrooms, along with inviting images. Buchymix.co.uk Reviews

This makes it easy for a potential user to quickly grasp the types of accommodations available.

• Intuitive Layout: The site uses a grid-based layout for property listings, which is visually appealing and easy to scan.
• Clear Call to Actions: Buttons like “Book now” are strategically placed throughout the site.
• Responsive Design: The site appears to be optimized for various devices, ensuring a consistent user experience.

Initial Impressions of Trustworthiness

Avstays.co.uk provides a physical address, contact numbers, and email, which adds a layer of credibility.

They also mention being a registered company AV STAYS MGMT LTD T/A AV Stays, Company Registration No. 14839540, which can be verified independently.

The inclusion of client testimonials, even if generalized, aims to build trust.

• Transparency: Physical address and company registration details are provided.
• Customer Support Channels: Multiple ways to contact them are listed, including 24/7 WhatsApp support.
• Security: They mention a “secure and instant booking platform.”

Avstays.co.uk Features

Avstays.co.uk boasts a range of features designed to make stays comfortable and convenient, catering to both short and extended durations. Futurespro.org Reviews

While many features are beneficial, certain amenities listed, such as “Smart TVs with streaming services” and “Media room,” could potentially expose users to content that goes against Islamic principles of modesty and permissible entertainment.

It’s crucial for users to exercise caution and discretion when utilizing these features.

Accommodation Types and Locations

Avstays.co.uk primarily offers serviced apartments and holiday homes.

Their geographical focus is clear: London, Kent, and Liverpool.

This specialization allows them to potentially offer more tailored options within these areas. Cevrehastanesi.com.tr Reviews

• Serviced Apartments: Fully furnished, self-catering units.
• Holiday Homes: Larger properties suitable for families or groups.
• Key Locations:
  • London: Wide range of properties from central to suburban areas.
  • Kent: Options in Sittingbourne and surrounding areas.
  • Liverpool & Merseyside: Focus on areas like St Helens.
  • Buckinghamshire: Specifically mentions Gerrards Cross.

In-Property Amenities

The website emphasizes that their properties come with standard amenities, aiming to provide a “home away from home” experience.

This includes practical features beneficial for self-catering stays.

• Connectivity: Lightning-fast complimentary Wi-Fi is a standard offering, crucial for business travelers and staying connected.
• Kitchen Facilities: Well-equipped kitchens are provided, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, which is a significant advantage for those seeking halal food options and maintaining dietary preferences.
• Entertainment: Smart TVs with streaming services are mentioned. Users should be mindful of the content accessed through these services, ensuring it aligns with Islamic guidelines.
• Parking: Free parking is a valuable amenity, especially in urban areas.
• Other Potential Amenities Property Dependent: The site lists “Pool, Kitchen, Garden, Beach access, Snorkeling, Wifi, Media room, Spa Center, Boat trips, Jacuzzi, Safe home, Sport center.” It is important to note that features like “Pool,” “Spa Center,” “Boat trips,” and “Media room” should be approached with caution, as they may involve mixed-gender environments or impermissible activities/content. Users should inquire about segregation and content filters if these amenities are a consideration.

Booking and Customer Service

Avstays.co.uk highlights a streamlined booking process and robust customer support.

They offer instant online booking and emphasize their direct booking benefits.

• Online Booking Platform: A “secure and instant booking platform” is available for self-service reservations.
• Direct Booking Discounts: They incentivize direct bookings by promising savings of 15% to 20% compared to third-party platforms.
• 24/7 Guest Care: A dedicated team is available around the clock via live chat, email, and WhatsApp, with an emergency phone number provided upon booking. This level of support is beneficial for addressing immediate concerns.
• Flexible Check-in: Self-check-in systems are used to provide flexibility for arrivals, eliminating the need to coordinate with a host for keys.

Avstays.co.uk Pros & Cons

When considering Avstays.co.uk for accommodation, it’s helpful to weigh the advantages against potential drawbacks. Sarahhornebotanicals.com Reviews

The main benefits lie in their focus on comfort, convenience, and value, while the primary “cons” stem from potential exposure to impermissible elements through advertised amenities and the need for due diligence.

Pros

Avstays.co.uk offers several compelling advantages, particularly for those seeking an alternative to traditional hotel stays.

• “Home Away From Home” Experience: This is a major selling point, offering more space, privacy, and the comfort of a fully equipped home compared to a hotel room. This can be especially beneficial for families or longer stays.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The website explicitly states that their serviced apartments and short-term lets offer “highly budget-friendly rates” compared to pricey hotels. Direct booking discounts of 15-20% further enhance this value proposition.
• Flexibility in Stays: They cater to both short and long-term needs, accommodating various group sizes. This flexibility is ideal for business trips, relocations, or extended holidays.
• Convenient Locations: Properties are strategically located in London, Kent, Liverpool, and Buckinghamshire, providing access to urban centers and key attractions.
• Self-Catering Capability: The inclusion of well-equipped kitchens is a significant advantage, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, which is crucial for those adhering to specific dietary requirements like halal food. This also offers significant cost savings on dining out.
• Essential Amenities: Standard amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, free parking, and Smart TVs are valuable additions, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Dedicated Customer Support: The promise of 24/7 customer service via multiple channels WhatsApp, email, emergency phone indicates a commitment to guest satisfaction and quick resolution of issues.
• Simplified Check-in: Self-check-in systems offer convenience and flexibility, especially for late arrivals.

Cons

While the core service is beneficial, certain aspects and advertised features on Avstays.co.uk could be problematic for a Muslim discerning traveler.

• Potential for Impermissible Entertainment: The mention of “Smart TVs with streaming services” and a “Media room” raises concerns. These platforms often host content movies, podcast, shows that may not align with Islamic principles regarding modesty, violence, or themes that are considered impermissible. Users must be proactive in avoiding such content.
• Ambiguous “Spa Center” and “Boat Trips”: The inclusion of a “Spa Center” and “Boat trips” as amenities though possibly property-specific can be concerning. Spa facilities often involve mixed-gender environments or immodest attire, and boat trips could involve entertainment or activities that are not permissible. It is essential to confirm the specifics and ensure gender segregation or private access where applicable.
• Absence of Explicit Halal-Friendly Assurances: While kitchens allow for self-catering, there is no explicit mention of halal food availability in proximity or any specific services catering to Muslim travelers e.g., prayer mats, Qibla direction, nearby mosques. This requires guests to conduct their own research upon arrival.
• Reliance on External Booking Platforms for Reviews: Although they encourage direct booking, many user reviews for such services often reside on third-party platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. While Avstays.co.uk has testimonials, a comprehensive external review aggregation is not directly linked, making it harder to get a holistic view of consistent customer experiences outside their curated section.
• Pet Policy Complexity: The pet policy, which requires prior approval, an additional fee, and strict terms, and the consequence of termination for non-compliance, might be a minor inconvenience for pet owners.

Avstays.co.uk Alternatives

For those seeking temporary accommodation that aligns more closely with specific needs, especially for Muslim travelers looking to avoid potentially impermissible aspects, several alternatives to Avstays.co.uk exist.

These alternatives can range from other booking platforms with more specific filters to private rentals or even exploring short-term apartment rentals in specific, Muslim-friendly neighborhoods. Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Reviews

Other Mainstream Booking Platforms

Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com remain significant players, offering a vast array of options.

• Airbnb: While Avstays.co.uk states you can book their properties through Airbnb and offers discounts for direct booking, Airbnb itself has an extensive global inventory. You can often filter by “entire home” for privacy and look for listings that explicitly mention a full kitchen.
  • Pros: Huge selection, user reviews readily available, detailed filters.
  • Cons: Service fees can be higher, content on Smart TVs/streaming services in individual listings might still be an issue requiring diligence.
• Booking.com: Similar to Airbnb, Booking.com offers hotels, apartments, and holiday homes. It provides robust filtering options.
  • Pros: Wide variety, often good cancellation policies, loyalty programs.
  • Cons: Many listings are hotels less private, streaming services and entertainment options still need scrutiny.

Direct Private Rentals and Local Agencies

For a more tailored experience, especially for longer stays, consider working with local property management companies or directly renting from private landlords.

• Local Property Management Companies: Many cities have local companies specializing in short-term furnished rentals. These might offer more personalized service and potentially more flexibility regarding specific requests e.g., removing certain items from a property.
  • Pros: Personalized service, potential for negotiation, local expertise.
  • Cons: Smaller inventory, might require more direct communication.
• Private Landlords e.g., through Gumtree, SpareRoom for longer stays: For extended stays, looking at classifieds or dedicated rental sites might yield private rentals. This offers maximum control over the environment.
  • Pros: Direct communication with the owner, potential for long-term discounts, complete control over amenities.
  • Cons: More legwork, less immediate booking, safety concerns if not properly vetted.

Halal-Focused Accommodation Options

While not as common for general serviced apartments, there are emerging efforts to cater to Muslim travelers specifically.

• Muslim-Friendly Hotels/Resorts: Some hotels and resorts cater to Muslim guests by offering halal food, prayer facilities, and gender-segregated pools/spas. While usually larger establishments, some smaller boutique options might exist.
  • Pros: Explicitly catering to needs, less worry about impermissible aspects.
  • Cons: Limited availability, might be pricier, focus often on hotels rather than apartments.
• Community Boards/Networks: Sometimes, local Muslim community centers or online forums might have information on private rentals or guesthouses run by fellow Muslims, ensuring a more aligned environment.
  • Pros: Strong alignment with values, community support.
  • Cons: Very limited availability, informal booking processes.

When choosing an alternative, prioritize properties that offer:

• Fully equipped kitchens: Essential for preparing halal meals.
• Privacy: Entire homes or apartments are preferable.
• Clear amenities: Inquire about specific entertainment options and ensure they can be avoided or are not present.
• Good reviews: Check reviews focusing on cleanliness, service, and accuracy of listings.

Ultimately, the best alternative depends on individual needs, budget, and the level of diligence one is willing to undertake to ensure the accommodation aligns with Islamic principles. Cleanseforceuk.co.uk Reviews

How to Cancel Avstays.co.uk Subscription / Free Trial

Avstays.co.uk operates primarily as a booking platform for serviced accommodation rather than a subscription service.

Therefore, the concepts of “subscription” or “free trial” in the typical sense like a monthly membership for content do not apply to their core offering.

Instead, cancellations would refer to booking cancellations.

Understanding Avstays.co.uk’s Business Model

Avstays.co.uk provides short- to medium-term accommodation rentals.

When you “book” with them, you are entering into a rental agreement for a specific period, not subscribing to a recurring service. Nctilesandbathrooms.com Reviews

The “discount code” for signing up to their newsletter is a one-time offer for a first stay, not a free trial leading to a subscription.

Cancellation Policy for Bookings

While the website’s main pages do not immediately display a direct link to a comprehensive cancellation policy, it is standard practice for accommodation providers to have one.

This policy would typically be presented during the booking process or within the terms and conditions that a guest agrees to.

• Likely Scenarios for Cancellation:
  • Refundable vs. Non-Refundable Rates: Many booking platforms offer different rate types. A “non-refundable” rate is usually cheaper but offers no refund if you cancel. A “refundable” rate is more expensive but allows cancellation within a certain timeframe e.g., 24-48 hours before check-in for a full or partial refund.
  • Cancellation Deadlines: Even with refundable rates, there’s usually a cutoff point e.g., 7 days, 48 hours, or 24 hours before arrival after which cancellation fees apply or no refund is given.
  • “Force Majeure” or Extraordinary Circumstances: In unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters, severe travel restrictions, providers might offer more lenient cancellation terms, but this is usually on a case-by-case basis.
• How to Inquire About or Cancel a Booking:
  1. Check Your Booking Confirmation: Upon booking, you would have received an email confirmation. This email should contain details about your specific booking, including the cancellation policy or a link to the relevant terms and conditions.
  2. Contact Avstays.co.uk Directly: The most reliable way to understand or action a cancellation is to contact their Guest Care team.
     • Email: Use the contact email provided on their website e.g., .
     • Phone: Call their contact number e.g., 02035 760893 during business hours, or the 24/7 emergency number provided upon booking for urgent matters.
     • WhatsApp/Live Chat: Utilize their 24/7 WhatsApp messaging or live chat feature for prompt responses.
  3. Reference Your Booking ID: Always provide your booking confirmation number when contacting them to ensure efficient service.
  4. Confirm Cancellation in Writing: After speaking with a representative, request a written confirmation of your cancellation via email for your records.

Important Note: Since there is no “subscription” or “free trial” in the traditional sense, there’s no automated online portal for managing recurring payments or trial periods. All cancellations would relate to individual accommodation bookings. Always review the specific terms and conditions presented at the time of your booking, as these will govern any cancellation process and associated refunds or fees.

Avstays.co.uk Pricing

Avstays.co.uk positions itself as a cost-effective alternative to hotels, emphasizing “highly budget-friendly rates.” While they don’t provide a general price list due to the nature of accommodation pricing which varies based on location, size, dates, and demand, they do offer insights into how their pricing works and ways to save money. Myprivateproxy.net Reviews

Dynamic Pricing Model

Like most accommodation providers, Avstays.co.uk likely uses a dynamic pricing model.

This means prices fluctuate based on several factors:

• Location: Properties in prime London areas will naturally be more expensive than those in Kent or Liverpool.
• Property Size/Capacity: Larger apartments or houses accommodating more guests will have higher base rates.
• Seasonality: Peak travel seasons e.g., summer holidays, major events will see higher prices.
• Length of Stay: Longer stays often qualify for discounted weekly or monthly rates.
• Demand: Higher demand for specific dates or properties can drive prices up.
• Availability: Limited availability might lead to higher prices for remaining units.

Direct Booking Advantage

A key aspect of Avstays.co.uk’s pricing strategy is incentivizing direct bookings.

• Lowest Price Guarantee: They explicitly state that booking directly with them provides a “Lowest Price Guarantee.”
• Commission Savings: They claim that booking through third-party platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Agoda, and Vrbo typically imposes a 15% to 20% commission fee on top of their rates. By booking directly, guests can potentially save “up to 20%.”
• Direct Booking Discounts: The website mentions a “Direct Booking Discount 12% Off” by entering your email to receive a discount code. This suggests they offer direct promotional codes as well.

Special Offers and Discounts

Avstays.co.uk indicates that discounts are available, particularly for longer stays.

• Duration-Based Discounts: “Depending on the duration of your stay, you’ll automatically qualify for discounts of up to 15%.” This is a common practice in the serviced accommodation industry, where longer commitments reduce the per-night cost.
• First-Time Stay Discount: A pop-up on the website offers “GET 13% OFF your first stay with us by signing up to our newsletter.” Note: This specific code may not be valid on weekly or monthly stays, requiring direct contact for longer-term quotes.
• Contact for Extended Stays: They advise guests to “reach out to our team if you plan to extend your stay and seek discounted pricing options,” indicating flexibility for longer bookings.

How to Check Pricing

To get an accurate price for a specific stay, you would need to: 360imprimir.es Reviews

1. Visit Avstays.co.uk: Navigate to their “Book Now” section.
2. Input Search Criteria: Enter your desired destination, check-in/check-out dates, and the number of guests.
3. Browse Properties: The search results will display available properties with their respective prices for your selected dates.

Example Price Points Illustrative, not real-time data: While specific prices aren’t listed publicly without a search, properties can range significantly. A 2-bedroom apartment in Central London might start from £150-£250 per night, while a larger 4-bedroom house in South London could be £300-£500+ per night, depending on the season and demand. Long-term corporate stays would have significantly lower daily rates.

In summary, Avstays.co.uk employs a standard, flexible pricing structure common in the hospitality industry, with a strong emphasis on rewarding direct bookings with competitive rates and discounts for longer durations.

Avstays.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Avstays.co.uk, it’s beneficial to compare its offerings against some of its primary competitors in the UK serviced accommodation market.

These typically include larger online travel agencies OTAs and other dedicated serviced apartment providers.

Avstays.co.uk Strengths

• Direct Booking Advantage: As highlighted, Avstays.co.uk emphasizes significant savings 15-20% for direct bookings compared to OTAs. This is a strong incentive for budget-conscious travelers.
• Personalized Service Promise: Their commitment to 24/7 Guest Care via WhatsApp and an emergency line suggests a more direct and responsive approach than what might be experienced with large, impersonal OTAs.
• Focus on “Home Away From Home”: Their marketing heavily leans into providing space, privacy, and full amenities like equipped kitchens, which sets them apart from standard hotel rooms.
• Local Expertise Implied: By focusing on specific UK regions, they likely have better local knowledge and can offer more tailored recommendations, as they suggest being “trusted local advisors.”

Versus Online Travel Agencies OTAs like Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo

OTAs are the largest competitors, primarily because they list a vast array of properties, including those from providers like Avstays.co.uk itself. Campthailand.com Reviews

• Inventory Size: OTAs have a significantly larger and more diverse inventory globally and often locally. You’ll find thousands more options on Airbnb or Booking.com than on Avstays.co.uk directly.
  • Advantage OTAs: More choices, greater chance of finding something specific.
  • Disadvantage Avstays.co.uk: Limited direct choice, though they list properties on OTAs.
• Pricing: While OTAs add commission, they also run frequent sales and have loyalty programs that can sometimes offset the direct booking advantage.
  • Advantage Avstays.co.uk: Generally better direct price for their properties.
  • Advantage OTAs: Price comparison across many providers, flash sales.
• User Reviews: OTAs have robust, often verified review systems that provide extensive public feedback.
  • Advantage OTAs: Transparency through a large volume of public reviews.
  • Disadvantage Avstays.co.uk: Relies on internal testimonials, external reviews are scattered.
• Booking Process: OTAs offer standardized, often multi-language booking processes.
  • Advantage Both: Both offer online booking, but OTAs are globally recognized.

Versus Dedicated Serviced Apartment Providers e.g., Cheval Collection, SACO, The Ascott Limited – Citadines

These are companies that primarily own and operate their own portfolio of serviced apartments, often targeting corporate clients or longer stays.

• Scale and Brand Recognition: Larger players often have wider networks of properties and stronger brand recognition, especially in the corporate travel sector.
  • Advantage Larger Providers: Established reputation, wider reach.
  • Disadvantage Avstays.co.uk: Smaller, perhaps less recognized outside their focus areas.
• Service Level & Standardization: Larger chains often have highly standardized service levels, amenities, and loyalty programs across all their properties.
  • Advantage Larger Providers: Predictability in service quality.
  • Disadvantage Avstays.co.uk: May have slight variations between individual properties depending on management.
• Focus: Avstays.co.uk caters to a broader range business, leisure, emergency, while some dedicated providers are more strictly corporate.
  • Advantage Avstays.co.uk: More versatile offering.

In essence, Avstays.co.uk carves out its niche by offering a localized, direct-booking friendly alternative to the massive OTAs, while providing a “home-like” experience that differentiates it from standard hotels.

Its main challenge against larger dedicated providers is scale and brand recognition, but its focused approach in specific UK regions and emphasis on direct communication could be appealing to certain segments of travelers.

Ensuring a Halal-Friendly Stay with Avstays.co.uk

For Muslim travelers considering Avstays.co.uk, it’s paramount to approach the booking with a proactive mindset to ensure the stay aligns with Islamic principles.

While the fundamental service of accommodation is permissible, the details matter significantly. Syncfulfilment.nl Reviews

Prioritizing Self-Catering and Kitchen Facilities

The presence of a “well-equipped kitchen” is one of the most crucial features for a Muslim traveler.

• Halal Food Preparation: This allows guests to prepare their own halal meals, eliminating the need to rely on external sources whose halal certification might be questionable. It ensures complete control over ingredients and cooking methods.
• Cost Savings: Preparing meals at home is also significantly more economical than dining out, especially for families.
• Storage: Ample refrigeration and storage space for groceries is beneficial.

Managing Entertainment and Media

The mention of “Smart TVs with streaming services” and a “Media room” requires careful handling.

• Content Control: Be prepared to avoid or filter content that contains impermissible elements such as immodesty, alcohol consumption, gambling, or gratuitous violence. Most streaming services offer parental controls that can be utilized to restrict access to certain ratings or genres.
• Alternative Entertainment: Focus on permissible forms of entertainment:
  • Reading: Bring Islamic books, educational materials, or uplifting literature.
  • Dhikr and Quran Recitation: Utilize the quiet environment for spiritual reflection and worship.
  • Educational Content: If using the Smart TV, stick to documentaries or educational programs that are free from haram content.
  • Family Interaction: Engage in board games, conversations, or other family-friendly activities.
• Disconnecting: Consider simply not using the TV or media room if the content options are too problematic. The goal is to avoid unnecessary exposure to impermissible sights and sounds.

Scrutinizing Other Amenities and Services

Amenities like “Pool,” “Spa Center,” and “Boat trips” need to be reviewed carefully.

• Gender Segregation: For pools and spas, always inquire about gender-segregated timings or facilities. If mixed-gender usage is the norm and private use is not possible, it’s best to avoid these amenities.
• Modesty: If using any public or shared spaces, maintain modest attire.
• Nature of Activities: For “Boat trips,” inquire about the activities involved. Ensure they do not include podcast, alcohol, or other impermissible elements. Opt for simple sightseeing or fishing trips if available.
• Privacy in Accommodation: Confirm the layout of the property to ensure adequate privacy for family members, especially in multi-bedroom units.

Asking Specific Questions Before Booking

Don’t hesitate to contact Avstays.co.uk’s Guest Care team with specific questions before finalizing your booking.

• Qibla Direction: Ask if prayer mats or Qibla direction indicators are provided, or if they can assist with directions.
• Nearby Mosques/Halal Eateries: While they may not provide an official list, they might offer general guidance on nearby areas with Muslim communities.
• Specific Property Details: Inquire about specific details of the property’s amenities, especially regarding the points raised above e.g., “Is the pool private or shared? Are there specific hours for women/men?”.

By taking these proactive steps, a Muslim traveler can make an informed decision and strive to ensure that their stay with Avstays.co.uk remains within permissible boundaries, prioritizing spiritual well-being alongside comfort and convenience. Fosscarrental.com Reviews

The Importance of Diligence in Travel and Accommodation Choices

However, for a Muslim, every choice, including accommodation, should ideally align with Islamic principles.

This necessitates a proactive and diligent approach to vetting options like Avstays.co.uk, where the core service is permissible but auxiliary offerings might pose challenges.

Guarding Against Impermissible Elements

The concern with services like Avstays.co.uk stems not from the provision of shelter itself, but from the potential inclusion of entertainment options like Smart TVs with streaming services, media rooms, or certain leisure activities that frequently feature content contrary to Islamic values. This includes:

• Immodesty and Nudity: Prevalent in many movies, TV shows, and even some advertising.
• Podcast and Instruments: While opinions vary, many scholars discourage podcastal instruments and their widespread use in entertainment.
• Alcohol and Gambling: Often glamorized or normalized in mainstream media.
• Immoral Behavior: Promotion of illicit relationships, violence, or themes that contradict Islamic ethics.

The key is not to ban travel or accommodation services but to exercise due diligence and conscious choice. A Muslim is encouraged to seek out and choose what is beneficial and avoid what is harmful or forbidden. This means:

• Prioritizing Need: Is the travel essential e.g., business, visiting family, seeking knowledge or for leisure? Even for leisure, ensuring it’s within permissible boundaries is key.
• Researching Thoroughly: Don’t just look at the price and location. Delve into the amenities, read the fine print, and ask specific questions about facilities like pools, spas, or entertainment systems.
• Exercising Self-Control: Even if an impermissible option is present e.g., a TV with objectionable channels, a Muslim’s duty is to avoid it. This requires personal discipline and Taqwa God-consciousness.
• Seeking Alternatives: Actively look for options that are explicitly Muslim-friendly or allow for greater control over the environment. For example, self-catering apartments are generally better than hotels that might serve alcohol openly or have nightclubs.

Embracing Alternatives for a Wholesome Experience

Instead of settling for options that require constant vigilance against impermissible elements, consider alternatives that inherently foster a more Islamic environment.

• Halal-Certified or Muslim-Owned Establishments: While rare for standard apartments, some specialized hotels or guesthouses cater specifically to Muslim travelers, offering prayer facilities, halal food, and segregated amenities.
• Private Rentals with Owner Communication: Sometimes, renting directly from a private individual through platforms or word-of-mouth allows for clearer communication regarding preferences, such as removing a TV or ensuring specific prayer needs are met.
• Focus on Nature and Family: Opt for trips centered around exploring nature, historical sites, or engaging in wholesome family activities that don’t rely on problematic entertainment. For example, visiting national parks, historical Islamic sites if available, or spending quality time in a private, natural setting.
• Educational Travel: Combine travel with learning, visiting museums, libraries, or attending permissible workshops and lectures.

Ultimately, the choice of accommodation is a reflection of one’s commitment to Islamic values.

While necessity might sometimes lead to compromises, the ideal approach is to proactively seek out options that support one’s faith, rather than creating an environment where one is constantly battling against temptation or impermissible elements.

It’s about striving for a holistic experience that is beneficial in this life and the Hereafter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Avstays.co.uk?

Avstays.co.uk is an online platform that offers serviced apartments and holiday homes for short to medium-term stays across various locations in the UK, primarily London, Kent, and Liverpool.

They provide self-catering accommodation for purposes like business, relocation, leisure, and emergency housing.

What kind of properties does Avstays.co.uk offer?

Avstays.co.uk offers fully furnished serviced apartments and larger holiday homes, emphasizing comfort, space, and privacy, often as an alternative to traditional hotel rooms.

Where are Avstays.co.uk properties located?

Their properties are primarily located in London various areas, Kent e.g., Sittingbourne, Liverpool e.g., St Helens, Merseyside, and Buckinghamshire e.g., Gerrards Cross.

What amenities are included in Avstays.co.uk properties?

Standard amenities typically include complimentary Wi-Fi, well-equipped kitchens, Smart TVs with streaming services, and free parking.

Other amenities like gardens, pools, or spa centers may be available depending on the specific property.

Can I book Avstays.co.uk properties directly?

Yes, you can book directly through their website, Avstays.co.uk.

They encourage direct bookings and claim to offer significant discounts 15-20% compared to booking through third-party platforms.

Is it cheaper to book directly with Avstays.co.uk or through other platforms like Airbnb?

Avstays.co.uk states that booking directly with them is cheaper, offering savings of 15% to 20% compared to booking through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Agoda, and Vrbo, due to commissions charged by these third parties.

How do I check in to an Avstays.co.uk property?

Avstays.co.uk uses self-check-in systems for flexibility, allowing guests to access the accommodation independently upon arrival without needing to meet a host or collect keys from a distant location.

Does Avstays.co.uk offer long-term stays?

Yes, Avstays.co.uk provides both short and long-term accommodation options, catering to flexible stays for individuals and groups.

They suggest contacting their team for discounted pricing on extended stays.

Are pets allowed in Avstays.co.uk properties?

Pet permissions vary by property and require prior approval from the Avstays.co.uk team.

An additional fee is applicable, and specific terms must be acknowledged.

Bringing a pet without prior consent will result in termination of the stay.

How can I contact Avstays.co.uk customer service?

Their Guest Care team is available 24/7 via live chat, messages on booking platforms, email , and WhatsApp.

An emergency phone number is also provided upon booking.

What is the cancellation policy for Avstays.co.uk bookings?

The specific cancellation policy will depend on the rate type booked e.g., refundable vs. non-refundable and the terms and conditions agreed upon at the time of booking.

It is advisable to check your booking confirmation or contact their customer service directly for details.

Does Avstays.co.uk offer discounts?

Yes, they offer various discounts, including up to 15% off depending on the duration of your stay, and a 13% discount for first-time stays when signing up for their newsletter.

Direct bookings also receive 15-20% off compared to OTA rates.

Are Avstays.co.uk properties suitable for business travelers?

Yes, Avstays.co.uk specifically caters to business stays, corporate accommodation, and contractor accommodation, offering comfortable and fully furnished environments.

Can I prepare my own meals at Avstays.co.uk properties?

Yes, all Avstays.co.uk serviced apartments and holiday homes come with well-equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.

What payment methods does Avstays.co.uk accept?

The website mentions a “secure and instant booking platform,” implying standard online payment methods such as credit/debit cards are accepted.

Specific payment options would be detailed during the booking process.

Is there a “free trial” for Avstays.co.uk?

No, Avstays.co.uk does not offer a “free trial” in the sense of a subscription service.

They provide accommodation rentals, and any discounts are for actual booked stays, not trial periods.

What is the company registration number for Avstays.co.uk?

Avstays.co.uk operates under AV STAYS MGMT LTD, with Company Registration No. 14839540.

Are there any reviews of Avstays.co.uk properties online?

While Avstays.co.uk features client testimonials on their website, general user reviews for their properties can also be found on popular online travel agencies like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo, where their listings are also present.

How do Avstays.co.uk prices compare to hotels?

Avstays.co.uk claims their serviced apartments and short-term lets offer “highly budget-friendly rates” compared to traditional hotels, providing better value for money, especially given the extra space and amenities like full kitchens.

Does Avstays.co.uk have a loyalty program?

The website does not explicitly mention a formal loyalty program.

However, they offer discounts for direct bookings and extended stays, which serve as incentives for repeat customers.

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