A personalised service, accommodation in private homes



Frequently Asked Questions

Accommodation:

I haven't stayed in "Hosted" Accommodation before. Why should I choose this instead of other types of accommodation?
This is much more than just accommodation. It's all about living with locals and experiencing the wonderful Australian culture and lifestyle. This residential style of accommodation provides you with a very personalised service. You are not just another number but a special guest in a private home. Our hosts will provide you with local advice; they know the best places to shop and best places to visit.

Will I have privacy in my Hosted Retreat?
Most definitely. Our hosts have been carefully selected by us to ensure your privacy and a high standard of accommodation. The amount of interaction you have with your host is entirely up to you. You get the best of both worlds, the benefits of being a guest and the privacy of your own space.

Will my host do my laundry?
Some of our hosts prefer to do the laundry for you, others may give you access to the laundry and washing machine. Please check with your host upon arrival. Either way laundry costs are free.

Is linen provided?
Yes, towels and sheets are provided by your host and your room will be made up and ready for your arrival.

Will my host clean my room and change my bed linen?
Your room will be clean and have fresh linen and towels on your arrival. Your room is your own private space so your host will not enter without your permission. It is your responsibility to maintain the room in a clean and tidy condition and to change the linen as required during longer stays.

Will my host transport me anywhere?
Your host will transfer you to their local tour pickup point for tours and itineraries booked through Hosted Retreats Australia only. Additional transport is your own responsibility. Most host homes are located close to public transport and taxi services are available.

What facilities in the home will I have access to?
Generally you will have access to all facilities in the home. Please advise us if you have any special requirements.

Will I be given a key to the house?
This is entirely at the hosts' discretion. Your host will ensure though that suitable arrangements are made so you can come and go as required.

Is it OK if I arrive home late?
Yes of course, though please keep your host informed of your movements as a matter of courtesy.

Can I use the telephone and Internet?
Please let us know if you have specific requirements for telephone or internet connection. Additional costs may be incurred for this service. Most hosts do provide free Internet access.

Are there any house rules?
We will advise you prior to arrival of anything that we believe you need to know. Please check with your host on arrival to ensure good communication and understanding is maintained.

Can I bring friends home?
Our hosts are very welcoming, please discuss this with them. If additional people are to stay overnight an additional charge may be required. You will need to inform your host and Hosted Retreats Australia if additional guests need to be accommodated at any time during your stay.

Is alcohol allowed in the home?
Most hosts permit alcohol in the home, though please ask us or discuss with your host if you have any concerns.

Can I bring my pet with me?
Yes, we have a number of pet friendly Hosted Retreats that can accommodate a dog. Please advise us when you book so we can place you in a home that allows pets. Alternatively there are a number of quality pet boarding facilities that we can recommend.

Are cots available for young children?
Arrangements can be made to hire cots if you notify us in advance. The rental charge will be added to your reservation cost. The cot will be delivered to your Hosted Retreat before your arrival.

Will my host mind my children for me?
Child minding services are not our host's responsibility. Please make alternative arrangements with a qualified child minding agency if you require child minding services during your stay.

Tours and Travel:

How can I get to Cairns?
Cairns has a modern International Airport and direct flights available from every capital city within mainland Australia and other regional airports. A high speed tilt train operates between Brisbane (capital of Queensland) and Cairns. Bus services are available throughout Australia. All main roads are sealed for those travelling to Cairns by car.

How do I book additional tours after I arrive?
Please advise your host. 24 hours notice to book a tour is required. Your host will phone us and Hosted Retreats Australia will book the tours for you. A cash deposit will be required and the balance paid at the terminal. Your host will then provide transfers to their local tour pickup point.

If I book a tour itinerary, can I change my mind?
Yes, you can change your mind. If you cancel you will forfeit your deposit. We may be able to transfer your deposit to another tour reservation although this cannot be guaranteed.

Will my host transfer me for all of my tours?
Yes, if they are able to and the tour has been booked through Hosted Retreats Australia.

Will my host meet me at the airport?
Yes, if we are aware of your arrival time and you have requested an airport transfer with your reservation.

If I arrive by train or bus will my host meet me at the station?
Yes, if we are aware of your arrival time and you have requested a transfer with your reservation. Hosted Retreats Australia will need to know your exact travel details, including arrival time and arrival location.

If I am travelling by car, or decide to hire one, is there parking at my Hosted Retreat?
Most Hosted Retreats do have parking facilities. Please advise us if you are travelling by car.

Will Hosted Retreats Australia organise car hire for me?
Yes, Hosted Retreats Australia can organise car hire for you with our preferred providers.

Please Contact Us if you have any further questions. Toll Free: 1800 765 750




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Hosted Retreats Australia - Cairns Accommodation