Confused about the difference between twin share and double? Want to know how to tell a villa from a retreat? All these questions and more are answered in this handy glossary.

Self-Contained

A self-contained accommodation is a property booked exclusively for your use. For example, if you book an accommodation that has two bedrooms, but are only using one bedroom, the unused room will not be booked out to other guests.

Single

Accommodation for one person in a single, double, queen or king size bedroom.

Twin

Accommodation for two people sleeping in one room with two separate beds.

Double

Accommodation for two people sleeping in one bedroom that has either a king, queen or double bed.

Modest

Comfortable, no-frills accommodation and facilities. Budget self-contained accommodation means properties with kitchenette facilities, such as toaster ovens, microwaves and electric fry pans, and bathrooms without spas. Budget accommodation also encompasses lodges, hostels, and some inexpensive and cheerful guesthouses.

Medium

Mid-range accommodation, which usually comprises a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, and bathroom with spa bath.

Premium

Architect-designed, full-featured dwellings on prime locations throughout the region. These properties provide the very best of everything - wood fires, ducted climate control, double spas, gourmet kitchens, DVD entertainment systems, and quality furnishings.

Bed & Breakfast or Guest House

These options usually offer double or twin share bedrooms, often with en suite. Rooms may contain extras such as armchairs and televisions, although all have specially designed communal lounge, dining and/or garden areas. Generally property owners live on-site and prepare breakfasts for guests each morning.

Cottages

These generally contain one or two bedrooms, doubles or twin. Most cottages have separate dining and lounge areas with television, VCR, CD player and so on. Recreational areas can include courtyards, decking or verandahs. Kitchens are fully equipped. Some properties have laundry facilities, which are ideal for longer stays. Bathrooms will most likely contain either a deep spa or claw-foot bath.

Girls Weekend Venues

Properties accommodating six or more guests, or smaller properties which are adjoining or close together, perfect for Girls Weekends, Hen Nights and so on.

Large Family and Group Venues

Large families or groups can be accommodated in substantial single dwellings, or in complexes consisting of multiple smaller dwellings. Big properties accommodate six or more - usually in three-to-five double or twin bedrooms. They usually also contain at least two living areas and multiple bathrooms. Complexes comprise several small cottages or units, linked by common doors, covered walkways or paths. Lodges can accommodate up to 25 people, and contain up to 12 bedrooms, communal living and recreation areas, and several bathrooms.

Hotels

Hotels offer double or twin rooms, most with en suites. Facilities include room service, in-house cafes, bars and restaurants, al fresco dining, and in-room entertainment.

Suites

Smaller than a villa or cottage, suites are primarily open plan spaces with lounge, dining and bedroom all in one area. They usually have a CD player, television and VCR. Kitchen facilities comprise microwave, bar fridge and toaster oven. Bathrooms are generally en suited. Suites can sometimes be attached to another property.

Retreat

A Retreat is a substantial property with character and luxurious features, catering for more than two guests, generally in a secluded location.

Villas

Villas are modern and often architect designed. Generally they contain one or two bedrooms (double or twin) and an open plan living area with television, VCR or DVD player and CD player. Kitchens are fully equipped. Recreational areas include courtyards, gardens and decking. Many properties have spa baths, and some have laundry facilities.

Full Kitchen

Full kitchen, fully equipped kitchen, and country style kitchen all refer to a kitchen that is equipped with a fridge, stove top, oven, microwave, toaster, electric jug, coffee plunger, pots, pans, cooking utensils, cutlery, and crockery. You would be able to cook a roast or bake cookies in a full kitchen.

Kitchenette

Kitchenettes are compact kitchen facilities that usually have a hot plate or an electric frying pan to cook with, as well as a microwave, toaster, electric jug, coffee plunger, pots, pans, cooking utensils, cutlery, and crockery. Don't plan on preparing a huge feast in a kitchenette.