Budget getaways come in a mind-boggling array of guises, shapes and forms: crumbly farm cottages smelling of sweet cow and thatch; rural yuppie pads posher than your own home; restored shepherd cottages spilling old-time character and massive hearths; suspect backpackers’ hostels, others hip gathering places; love ’em or hate ’em municipal resorts, most pretty grotty but invariably packed out over season; rustic riverside cabins dozing under shady willows; endearingly simple State nature reserve campsites blending like chameleons into the surrounds; airy Out-of-Africa chalets; caravan parks organised along Third Reich principles; backyard granny flats with frilly tea doilies and knitted hand-me-downs; wholesome family beach houses licked by aquamarine waves, and others smelling like an old dog. But have no fear - stick with us and we'll guide you safely through this perilous self-catering universe.