In short: read the rate type, the tax line, and the cancellation window before you click book — those three words decide most surprises.

The terms, explained

Aparthotel
A property that combines hotel services (reception, housekeeping) with apartment-style units that include a kitchen or kitchenette. Why it matters: you get hotel convenience with the cost savings of cooking some meals yourself.
Self-catering
A listing where no meals are provided and guests prepare their own food using an in-unit kitchen. Why it matters: cheaper per night but budget extra time for grocery runs, especially on arrival day.
City tax
A local charge added per person, per night, collected by the city rather than the property. It is often shown separately from the room rate or paid on arrival. Why it matters: it can add a noticeable amount over several nights and is easy to miss when comparing prices.
Non-refundable rate
A discounted price that cannot be cancelled or changed without losing the full amount paid. Why it matters: it saves money only if your plans are certain — otherwise a flexible rate is worth the higher price.
Check-in window
The hours during which a property will hand over keys or grant access, sometimes with a separate, more limited window for late arrivals. Why it matters: arriving outside this window can mean extra fees or no entry at all.
Walking distance
A listing's own estimate of how far a point of interest is on foot, with no fixed standard behind the phrase. Why it matters: always check the figure on a map rather than trusting the label alone.
Damage deposit
A sum held (often on a card, not charged) to cover potential damage, refunded after checkout if the unit is left in order. Why it matters: it can temporarily reduce your available card balance during the trip.
Host-managed vs. professionally managed
Whether a listing is run by an individual owner or a company managing many units. Why it matters: response times, check-in process, and consistency of standards can differ between the two.

A quick checklist before booking

  • Confirm whether the displayed price includes city tax or adds it later.
  • Check the cancellation policy name, not just the headline price.
  • Note the check-in and check-out windows against your travel times.
  • Look for whether a kitchen is listed as full, partial, or shared.
  • Read who manages the property if contact details matter to you.

None of these terms are reasons to avoid a listing — they are simply the fine print that turns a good-looking price into an accurate one. Reading them once, carefully, is faster than discovering them after you arrive.