Callaway, hope the whole thing hasnt put you off self catering as they can be a great alternative for holidays. I find it easier than hotels when travelling because I can have the food I want to eat, when I want to eat it, etc. There are many lovely self catering places in Ireland and Jersey. In fact, I was told about some unusual self catering accomodation in Jersey today where you can hire out some small forts, martello towers, etc.