Awayonbusiness.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Awayonbusiness.co.uk appears to be a legitimate online platform offering short-term accommodation primarily for business travellers, individuals needing temporary housing due to unforeseen circumstances, and leisure guests within the UK. The site focuses on direct bookings to provide better rates, bypassing common booking platform fees.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Clarity: Good, clearly states purpose and target audience.
• Information Provided: Adequate for booking; details on property types and locations are available.
• Ease of Navigation: Simple and intuitive.
• Trust Signals: Lacks explicit trust signals such as customer testimonials, clear privacy policies, or a robust ‘Terms and Conditions’ page easily accessible from the homepage. No direct payment portal visible, implying contact-based booking.
• Ethical Considerations: Seems generally ethical, focusing on accommodation. However, the lack of transparency regarding full terms and conditions and privacy policies is a concern from a user trust perspective.
• Recommendation: Proceed with caution. While the service appears valid, the absence of crucial legal and trust documentation on the homepage is a red flag for a direct booking platform. Always ensure full terms, privacy, and cancellation policies are reviewed before any commitment.

The website aims to facilitate accommodation for various needs, from corporate stays to temporary housing for local residents affected by emergencies like floods or fires. They highlight the benefit of direct booking to save costs compared to major platforms. While the intent is commendable, the absence of direct links to comprehensive legal pages such as a Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, or a clear refund policy on the homepage is a significant oversight. In today’s digital landscape, transparency is paramount. Users expect immediate access to how their data is handled and what their rights are, especially when making financial commitments, even if those commitments are initiated after direct contact. This lack of readily available information could deter potential customers seeking reassurance about the platform’s reliability and ethical practices. For any transaction, particularly those involving accommodation, a thorough understanding of the terms is non-negotiable.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Accommodation Booking Platforms (Focusing on B2B/Corporate Stays and Ethical Practices):

• Booking.com for Business
  • Key Features: Centralised management for corporate travel, extensive global property inventory, customised reporting, flexible payment options.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on location and property.
  • Pros: Huge selection, robust corporate tools, established reputation, clear policies.
  • Cons: Can have higher fees than direct booking, less personal touch.
• Expedia Group Business Travel
  • Key Features: Comprehensive travel management, access to flights, hotels, car rentals, integrated reporting, dedicated support.
  • Average Price: Varies.
  • Pros: All-in-one solution, strong brand recognition, reliable customer service.
  • Cons: May involve complex integrations for smaller businesses, general travel focus rather than just accommodation.
• Corporate Housing by Owner (CHBO)
  • Key Features: Specialises in furnished corporate housing, connects landlords directly with corporate clients, wide range of property types.
  • Average Price: Typically monthly rates, varies by property.
  • Pros: Niche focus on corporate housing, often better value for longer stays, direct owner contact.
  • Cons: Less immediate booking capability, might require more manual vetting.
• National Corporate Housing
  • Key Features: Full-service corporate housing provider, global reach, tailored solutions for specific client needs, furniture rental.
  • Average Price: Varies based on location and duration.
  • Pros: Professional service, high-quality properties, good for large-scale corporate needs.
  • Cons: Primarily B2B, less suitable for individual leisure travellers.
• Synergy Global Housing
  • Key Features: Award-winning corporate housing solutions, sustainable options, global presence, personalised guest services.
  • Average Price: Varies, premium service.
  • Pros: High standard of accommodation, strong focus on guest experience, environmentally conscious.
  • Cons: May be more expensive than other options, geared towards corporate clients.
• SilverDoor Apartments
  • Key Features: Global serviced apartment agent, vast portfolio, dedicated account management, duty of care compliance.
  • Average Price: Varies.
  • Pros: Extensive UK and international coverage, expertise in serviced apartments, strong corporate client focus.
  • Cons: Not always the cheapest option, primarily for corporate and extended stays.
• Airbnb for Work
  • Key Features: Business travel tools, easy booking for teams, expense reporting integrations, diverse property options.
  • Average Price: Varies.
  • Pros: Wide variety of unique properties, often more homely than traditional hotels, good for team travel.
  • Cons: Can be less standardised than corporate housing providers, some properties might not be ideal for formal business stays.

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.

Awayonbusiness.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on Awayonbusiness.co.uk, you’re greeted with a clean, functional layout. The immediate impression is that it’s designed to be straightforward, focusing on its core service: providing temporary accommodation. The top navigation bar is simple, featuring ‘Destinations’, ‘Properties’, ‘About Us’, ‘Contact Us’, and ‘List My Property’. This basic structure allows for intuitive navigation, which is a good starting point for any website.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage

The homepage immediately highlights its niche, stating, “We specialise in working with companies that need short-term accommodation for staff on local projects, as well as individuals requiring temporary housing due to insurance claims or home moves.” This clear value proposition tells you exactly who they serve. It also explicitly mentions that leisure guests are welcome, broadening their appeal. A search bar prominently placed allows users to input their destination, check-in/check-out dates, and number of guests. However, there’s no immediate indicator of availability, and users are encouraged to “Get in Touch!” if they can’t find what they need, implying a more manual, human-centric booking process rather than an automated one. This might be seen as a positive for personalised service, but a negative for instant gratification expected from modern booking platforms.

Key Information Presented

The website quickly outlines its priorities, such as supporting local residents needing alternative accommodation due to flood or fire, which highlights a community-focused aspect. It also reiterates its commitment to contractors and corporate workers. The “Book Direct & Save!” section is a significant selling point, stating that direct bookings can often secure lower rates by avoiding the high fees charged by platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. This transparency about fees is a strong positive, though it also means the burden of trust falls entirely on Awayonbusiness.co.uk itself, rather than a large, regulated platform. The site then lists properties by city, with examples like Chandler’s Ford and Bognor Regis, and provides direct links to specific properties, giving a glimpse into their portfolio.

Missing Trust Signals

While the website’s design is clean and its purpose clear, a critical observation is the absence of easily identifiable trust signals that are standard for online businesses, especially those handling accommodation. There are no direct links to a comprehensive ‘Privacy Policy’, ‘Terms and Conditions’, or ‘Cancellation Policy’ on the homepage or in the main navigation. This is a significant omission. In the UK, robust data protection (GDPR) and consumer rights laws necessitate clear and accessible legal documentation. Without these, potential customers might hesitate, as they lack crucial information on how their personal data is handled, what their contractual obligations are, or what recourse they have in case of issues. The lack of visible customer testimonials or reviews also means there’s no immediate social proof to build confidence.

Awayonbusiness.co.uk Pros & Cons

Every platform has its strengths and weaknesses, and Awayonbusiness.co.uk is no exception. Understanding these can help you decide if it aligns with your specific accommodation needs, especially considering the ethical and practical aspects of online services.

Potential Advantages of Using Awayonbusiness.co.uk

One of the most appealing aspects highlighted on the website is the opportunity to “Book Direct & Save!”. The site explicitly states that major booking platforms charge high fees, and by circumventing these, Awayonbusiness.co.uk can often offer lower rates. For businesses managing budgets for staff accommodation or individuals looking for temporary housing, any potential saving is significant. This direct approach might also lead to a more personalised service, as you’re likely communicating directly with the property managers or owners rather than through a third-party intermediary. The focus on specific niches—corporate accommodation, temporary housing for emergencies (flood/fire), and leisure—suggests they understand the unique requirements of these groups. For instance, temporary housing for displaced residents means focusing on locations close to schools and work, a thoughtful consideration. The website is also simple to navigate, which means users can quickly find the information they need about destinations and properties.

Areas for Improvement and Potential Drawbacks

While the direct booking model offers cost savings, it comes with a trade-off: a notable lack of transparent legal documentation. As observed, direct links to comprehensive Privacy Policies, Terms and Conditions, or Cancellation Policies are conspicuously absent from the homepage. This is a major concern. In the UK, businesses are expected to be transparent about how they handle customer data and what contractual terms apply. Without these readily available, users are left in the dark about their rights, responsibilities, and data privacy. This could lead to a lack of trust and potential legal ambiguities in case of disputes. Furthermore, the absence of customer testimonials or reviews means there’s no immediate social proof of positive experiences. While the website lists properties, there’s no direct booking portal; instead, it relies on users “getting in touch” for availability, which might be less convenient for those expecting instant online confirmation. The limited number of properties listed on the homepage (e.g., “1 property” for some cities) also suggests a relatively small inventory compared to larger platforms, which could limit choice.

Trust and Ethical Considerations

From an ethical standpoint, the service itself, providing accommodation, is permissible. However, the method of operation raises questions about transparency. Trust in online platforms is built on clear communication, especially regarding legal and financial terms. The omission of easily accessible privacy and terms of service documents could be interpreted as a lack of transparency, which is a key component of ethical business practice in the digital age. While their intent to save users money by bypassing fees is commendable, it does not absolve them from the responsibility of clearly outlining their operational policies. For users, proceeding with any booking would necessitate a direct inquiry and thorough review of these documents before making any commitment. Without this, the risk of misunderstanding or unforeseen issues increases significantly.

How to Cancel Awayonbusiness.co.uk Subscription or Booking

Given that Awayonbusiness.co.uk operates with a direct contact and booking model rather than a subscription-based service or an immediate online booking portal, the process for cancelling a booking or any associated arrangement will largely depend on the terms agreed upon directly with the company. It’s crucial to understand that without clear, public-facing policies, the cancellation process is less standardised than with major booking platforms.

General Steps for Cancelling a Booking

Since the website encourages direct contact for inquiries and bookings, the cancellation process will inevitably involve direct communication. Your first step should be to contact Awayonbusiness.co.uk directly. This can typically be done via phone or email, using the contact details provided on their ‘Contact Us’ page. When you reach out, you will need to provide all relevant booking details, such as your name, booking dates, property name, and any unique booking reference number you may have received. Be prepared to clearly state your intention to cancel and the reason for the cancellation, as this might influence their response depending on their unstated internal policies. It is always advisable to make this contact in writing, such as an email, to create a clear record of your communication. This record can be invaluable if any disputes arise later. Clarkgillone.co.uk Review

Understanding the Cancellation Policy (or Lack Thereof)

A major point of concern, as highlighted earlier, is the absence of a readily accessible, clear cancellation policy on the Awayonbusiness.co.uk website. For established booking platforms, cancellation policies are usually tiered (e.g., free cancellation up to X days before check-in, partial refund after that, no refund for same-day cancellations). Because Awayonbusiness.co.uk lacks this transparency, the cancellation terms will likely be communicated to you during the direct booking process or will be outlined in any agreement or invoice they send you.

Crucially, before finalising any booking or payment with Awayonbusiness.co.uk, you must explicitly request and review their full cancellation policy. This should include details on:

• Refund eligibility: Under what circumstances are you entitled to a full, partial, or no refund?
• Cancellation deadlines: What is the latest you can cancel without penalty?
• Cancellation fees: Are there any charges for cancelling, regardless of timing?
• Process for requesting a refund: How long does it take for refunds to be processed?

Without this information upfront, you are entering into an agreement with significant ambiguity. Always ensure you receive their cancellation policy in writing (e.g., via email or as part of a formal booking confirmation) before making any financial commitment. If they cannot provide a clear, written policy, it’s a significant red flag that warrants extreme caution.

Awayonbusiness.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure for Awayonbusiness.co.uk is less straightforward than with typical online booking platforms, largely due to its direct booking model and the absence of an immediate online payment portal. The website’s primary focus is on encouraging users to “Book Direct & Save!” by avoiding the high fees charged by third-party platforms. However, this also means that explicit, publicly listed prices for specific properties are not readily available on the main pages.

How Pricing is Determined

Based on the website’s approach, pricing for accommodation at Awayonbusiness.co.uk properties is determined on a case-by-case basis following a direct inquiry. When you fill out the “Where are you going?” search form or use the “No Availability? Get in Touch!” option, you are essentially initiating a direct conversation with the Awayonbusiness.co.uk team. During this interaction, they will likely provide you with a tailored quote based on several factors:

• Property Type and Size: Larger properties or those with more bedrooms will naturally command higher rates.
• Location: Properties in more desirable or in-demand areas will likely be priced higher.
• Duration of Stay: While not explicitly stated, it’s common for short-term accommodation providers to offer reduced rates for longer stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates vs. nightly rates). Given their focus on corporate and temporary housing, this is a strong possibility.
• Seasonality: Peak travel seasons or local events might influence pricing.
• Specific Needs: If you have particular requirements or requests, these might impact the overall cost.

The website’s statement about booking direct to “secure a lower rate” implies that their prices are competitive and aim to be below what you’d find on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, which typically add service fees ranging from 5-20% for guests or hosts.

The Quoting Process

The typical process for obtaining pricing would involve:

1. Submitting an enquiry: Using the search tool or contact form, you’d specify your dates and requirements.
2. Direct communication: Awayonbusiness.co.uk would then contact you directly (likely via email or phone) with a quote for available properties that match your criteria.
3. Negotiation/Confirmation: You would then confirm the booking and agree on the price and any associated terms.

This manual quoting process means there’s no instant price comparison, and you won’t see a live calendar with immediate rates. This might be less convenient for those accustomed to the instantaneity of major booking sites.

Potential Hidden Costs and What to Ask For

While the website promotes savings, the lack of a public pricing structure or terms page means there’s a possibility of additional costs that might not be immediately obvious. When you receive a quote, it is absolutely essential to ask for a full breakdown of all charges. This should include:

• Nightly/Weekly/Monthly Rate: The core cost of the accommodation.
• Cleaning Fees: Are there separate charges for cleaning at the end of your stay?
• Security Deposits: Is a refundable deposit required, and what are the conditions for its return?
• Utilities: Are utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) included, or are there caps/extra charges?
• VAT/Taxes: Are all applicable taxes included in the quoted price?
• Any other administrative fees: Are there booking fees, service charges, or other hidden costs?

Always request a comprehensive, written quote that itemises all potential charges before committing. This proactive approach is vital for ensuring transparency and avoiding any unwelcome surprises down the line, especially when dealing with a platform that prioritises direct, less automated interactions. Law123.co.uk Review

Awayonbusiness.co.uk vs. Established Booking Platforms

Comparing Awayonbusiness.co.uk with well-known booking platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or even corporate housing specialists reveals distinct differences in operational models, target audiences, and the overall user experience. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Operational Model Differences

Awayonbusiness.co.uk: Operates on a direct-to-customer model. The website acts primarily as a brochure and an inquiry portal rather than a fully automated booking engine. Users submit requests, and the company then responds with tailored options and quotes. This model relies heavily on direct communication and personalised service. The core selling point is avoiding third-party platform fees, which could potentially lead to lower prices for the end-user. However, it also means a less immediate booking process and a greater reliance on the company’s internal transparency.

Booking.com/Airbnb: These are global marketplaces. They host millions of listings from various property owners and managers, offering instant booking capabilities with real-time availability and transparent pricing. Their business model relies on charging service fees to either the guest, the host, or both. They provide extensive filters, guest reviews, integrated payment systems, and robust customer support infrastructure. Their vast scale offers unparalleled choice and convenience.

Corporate Housing Specialists (e.g., National Corporate Housing, SilverDoor Apartments): These platforms often operate as managed service providers. They curate a portfolio of corporate-ready properties and offer comprehensive solutions including furnishing, utilities, and dedicated account management. They often work directly with large corporations, offering tailored contracts and services that go beyond simple accommodation booking. Their focus is on consistency, compliance, and convenience for business travel departments.

Target Audience and Niche Focus

Awayonbusiness.co.uk: Clearly targets specific niches: business travellers (contractors, corporate workers), individuals needing temporary housing due to insurance claims or home moves, and leisure guests. Their emphasis on supporting local residents in emergencies highlights a community-focused aspect. Their property inventory seems to be concentrated in specific UK regions.

Booking.com/Airbnb: Have a broad, global audience. Booking.com is strong for hotels and traditional accommodation, while Airbnb excels in unique stays, private homes, and a more “local” experience. Both cater to leisure and business travellers, offering diverse options for all budgets and preferences.

Corporate Housing Specialists: Exclusively target businesses and corporations with specific needs for extended stays, relocations, or projects. They cater to a more demanding B2B clientele, offering a higher level of service and tailored solutions that individual booking platforms might not provide.

User Experience and Trust Signals

Awayonbusiness.co.uk:

• User Experience: Simple and easy to navigate for initial inquiry. The direct contact approach might be appealing for those seeking personalised service.
• Trust Signals: Lacks crucial public-facing legal documents (Privacy Policy, T&Cs) and transparent customer reviews/testimonials on the homepage. This absence creates a significant trust gap for users accustomed to industry standards.
• Payment: Implies an offline payment process, which means users don’t benefit from the payment security features inherent in major platforms.

Booking.com/Airbnb:

• User Experience: Highly automated, instant booking, extensive filters, user-friendly mobile apps. Comprehensive information (photos, reviews, amenities, maps) is readily available.
• Trust Signals: Robust privacy policies, clear terms and conditions, secure payment gateways, extensive user reviews and ratings, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Their brand recognition itself acts as a strong trust signal.
• Payment: Integrated, secure online payment systems.

Corporate Housing Specialists: Onebear.co.uk Review

• User Experience: Often more bespoke, involving direct communication and account management. Their websites are usually informative, focusing on their service capabilities rather than just property listings.
• Trust Signals: Built on long-term corporate relationships, industry accreditations, and professional service. They typically have clear contractual agreements for businesses.
• Payment: Typically invoice-based for corporate clients, with negotiated terms.

In summary, while Awayonbusiness.co.uk aims to offer a cost-effective alternative through direct booking, its current online presentation falls short on transparency and trust signals compared to established platforms. For casual users, the convenience and security of larger platforms might outweigh the potential savings. For businesses, while direct contact can be beneficial, the lack of upfront legal clarity on Awayonbusiness.co.uk requires a proactive approach to ensure all terms are fully understood before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

Awayonbusiness.co.uk is an online platform based in the United Kingdom that offers short-term accommodation services, primarily catering to business travellers, individuals needing temporary housing due to emergencies (like floods or fires), and leisure guests.

Is Awayonbusiness.co.uk a legitimate company?

Based on the website’s content, Awayonbusiness.co.uk appears to be a legitimate accommodation service. However, it lacks readily accessible trust signals such as comprehensive privacy policies or terms and conditions on its homepage, which can be a concern for user trust.

How do I book accommodation on Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

To book accommodation, you submit an inquiry through the website’s search form or contact page. Awayonbusiness.co.uk then communicates directly with you to discuss availability and provide a tailored quote. There is no immediate online booking portal.

Can I save money by booking directly with Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

Yes, the website explicitly states that booking directly with them can often secure a lower rate compared to major booking platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, as it allows them to avoid high service fees.

What types of properties does Awayonbusiness.co.uk offer?

Awayonbusiness.co.uk offers various properties, primarily houses and apartments, with different numbers of bedrooms, catering to both individual and group stays. Examples on their homepage include 2-bedroom and 4-bedroom options.

Where are Awayonbusiness.co.uk properties located?

Their properties are located in various cities within the United Kingdom, including Chandler’s Ford, Bognor Regis, Bishop’s Waltham, Hamble-le-Rice, Twyford, Eastleigh, Emsworth, and Chichester.

Does Awayonbusiness.co.uk cater to corporate clients?

Yes, Awayonbusiness.co.uk specialises in working with companies that need short-term accommodation for staff on local projects, as well as contractors and corporate workers.

Does Awayonbusiness.co.uk provide temporary housing for emergencies?

Yes, a stated priority of Awayonbusiness.co.uk is supporting local residents who need alternative accommodation following incidents like floods or fires, ensuring they stay close to work and schools.

Is there a cancellation policy available on the Awayonbusiness.co.uk website?

No, a comprehensive cancellation policy is not readily accessible or linked on the Awayonbusiness.co.uk homepage. It is crucial to request and review their full cancellation terms directly before confirming any booking. Greenermedia.co.uk Review

How can I contact Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

You can contact Awayonbusiness.co.uk via the ‘Contact Us’ page on their website, which typically provides contact forms, email addresses, or phone numbers.

Are there any reviews or testimonials for Awayonbusiness.co.uk on their website?

No, the homepage of Awayonbusiness.co.uk does not display any direct customer reviews or testimonials to provide social proof of their service quality.

What should I ask for before booking with Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

Before booking, you should ask for a full, itemised breakdown of all costs (including cleaning fees, security deposits, and taxes), and crucially, their complete privacy policy and terms and conditions, including cancellation terms.

Does Awayonbusiness.co.uk have an instant online booking system?

No, Awayonbusiness.co.uk does not appear to have an instant online booking system with real-time availability and payment. Bookings are facilitated through direct inquiry and communication.

Is Awayonbusiness.co.uk suitable for leisure guests?

Yes, while they specialise in business and emergency housing, Awayonbusiness.co.uk explicitly states that leisure guests also love their stays, whether they are visiting family, friends, or exploring the area.

What payment methods does Awayonbusiness.co.uk accept?

The website does not specify accepted payment methods. This information would typically be provided during the direct communication after an inquiry, likely including bank transfers or card payments processed offline.

What is the process if there is no availability for my dates?

If the website shows no availability for your chosen dates, Awayonbusiness.co.uk encourages you to “Get in Touch!” as they may still have a solution or alternative options available.

Is Awayonbusiness.co.uk GDPR compliant?

While the website doesn’t explicitly state its GDPR compliance or link to a privacy policy, any business operating in the UK and handling personal data is legally required to comply with GDPR. Users should seek confirmation of their data handling practices.

How does Awayonbusiness.co.uk differ from Airbnb?

Awayonbusiness.co.uk operates on a direct booking model, aiming to save users fees, and focuses on specific niches, whereas Airbnb is a global marketplace with instant booking, extensive reviews, and a wide variety of properties, charging service fees.

What are the main benefits of using Awayonbusiness.co.uk for businesses?

For businesses, the main benefits include potential cost savings by booking direct, personalised service, and properties specifically suited for staff on local projects or contractors needing temporary housing. Refineme.co.uk Review

Can I list my property on Awayonbusiness.co.uk?

Yes, the website has a ‘List My Property’ section, indicating that property owners can inquire about listing their accommodation with Awayonbusiness.co.uk.