Understanding Your Travel Costs
Planning your next adventure is exciting, but navigating the terminology of tour packages and hotel bookings can sometimes be a little confusing. Two terms that often cause a bit of a head-scratch are "Per Person Sharing" and "Single Occupancy." Understanding the difference between these can save you both money and headaches when budgeting for your trip.
Let's break it down!
What Does "Per Person Sharing" Mean?
When you see "Per Person Sharing" (often abbreviated as PPS) listed on a tour package or hotel rate, it means the price quoted is for each individual assuming they are sharing a room with at least one other person.
You might wonder why travel agencies almost always lead with the "Per Person Sharing" price. It’s actually a clever marketing strategy designed to show you the best possible value.
By showcasing the PPS rate, we highlight the cost-saving benefits of communal travel. It serves as a visual reminder that luxury travel becomes significantly more affordable when the "overhead" of a room—the space, the amenities, and the service—is split between two people. Essentially, PPS is our way of showing you how to get a five-star experience on a more friendly budget simply by bringing a friend along!
Key characteristics of Per Person Sharing:
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Group Pricing: This rate is designed for two or more travelers occupying the same room.
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Shared Accommodation: You'll be sharing a room and its amenities (like a bathroom) with your travel companion(s). This could be a twin room (two separate beds), a double room (one large bed), or even a triple or quad room for larger groups.
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Cost-Effective: It's almost always the most economical way to travel, as the cost of the room is split among the occupants.
Example: If a tour package advertises "Ksh 55,000 Per Person Sharing," it means if you're traveling with a friend, each of you will pay Ksh. 55,000, totaling Ksh. 110,000 for the room/package.
What Does "Single Occupancy" Mean?
"Single Occupancy," as the name suggests, refers to the price for one person occupying a room alone.
Key characteristics of Single Occupancy:
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Solo Traveler: This rate is specifically for individuals traveling by themselves.
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Private Accommodation: You get the entire room to yourself, enjoying complete privacy.
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Higher Cost: This is usually more expensive than the "Per Person Sharing" rate for a single individual. Why? Because you are bearing the full cost of the room, which would otherwise be split between two or more people. Even if the room remains the same size, the hotel still needs to cover its overheads, and they lose the potential revenue from a second guest. This difference is often referred to as a "single supplement."
Example: If the same tour package also lists "Ksh. 37,500 Single Occupancy," it means if you're traveling solo, you would pay Ksh. 37,500 for your private room.
Why the Price Difference? The "Single Supplement" Explained
The higher cost for single occupancy is known as a single supplement. Hotels and tour operators base their pricing on the assumption that most rooms will be occupied by at least two people. They factor in costs like cleaning, utilities, and amenities, which remain relatively constant whether one or two people are in a room. When a single traveler occupies a room, the establishment effectively loses the potential revenue from a second person, hence the additional charge.
When to Choose Which Option?
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Choose Per Person Sharing if:
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You are traveling with a partner, family member, or friend.
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You want to save money on accommodation costs.
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You don't mind sharing a room.
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Choose Single Occupancy if:
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You are traveling alone.
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You prefer privacy and your own space.
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Your budget allows for the additional cost.
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Making the Right Choice for Your Trip
Understanding these terms empowers you to make informed decisions when booking your travel. Always check whether the price quoted is "Per Person Sharing" or "Single Occupancy" to accurately calculate your total trip cost. If you're a solo traveler looking to avoid single supplements, consider tours that specifically cater to solo travelers, or look for options where they can pair you with another solo traveler of the same gender (though this is less common with hotels directly).
At Stejos Tours & Travel, we strive for transparency in our pricing, so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming journey. If you ever have questions about our rates, don't hesitate to ask!
Ready to Explore?
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo expedition, we have a package that's perfect for you. Discover our latest tours and start planning your dream vacation today!
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q: Why is Per Person Sharing cheaper than Single Occupancy? A: PPS is a marketing-led price that reflects the split cost of a room. When two people share, the fixed costs of the accommodation are divided, allowing for a lower price per individual.
Q: Can I book a PPS rate if I am traveling alone? A: Generally, no. If you occupy a room alone, the "Single Occupancy" rate or a "Single Supplement" fee will apply to cover the full cost of the room.
