It’s completely true. I’m shaking my head as I write this. I mention Airbnb a lot in this blog – because we travel a LOT and we use it a LOT. In my opinion – it’s awesome – you can hand pick your wants (i.e. pet-friendly, wifi, hot tub etc . . . ) and you’ll consistently find a wonderful place that saves you MONEY!!
The other thing I LOVE is that for the most part – you’re given instructions on how to get in and that’s it – you get in. No standing around, when you’ve been traveling all day, at a front desk only to give them another credit card, even though you have already paid for your room, but they are functioning like you’re a 1970’s rock star and will be destroying everything . . . there’s none of that with Airbnb.
I have a few posts on incredible stays we’ve had on Airbnb specifically traveling with a pup. But I travel a lot alone and I really feel much safer renting a room in someone’s home – that has children and I know, that they know, I am coming. If that makes sense. A hotel feels unsafe to me at times. Depending on my mood and budget – I’ll get an entirely private space (apartment/studio etc) or make some new friends and just rent a room. (side note – a private room – always has a lock on the door and for the most part, is run like a bed & breakfast)
We’ve been using Airbnb as both guests and hosts since 2012 – with over 100 reviews about us. That’s the thing, it’s review based, so you can feel comfortable reading what other guests have experienced even before booking. And more times than not we are completely thrilled with the accommodation, the attention to detail and the overall quality of how someone is hosting you (even if you never meet). Some stays have even been so out of this world and whimsical we could NOT stop talking about it.
But, here’s the one other thing. There are certainly times we’ve NOT had the most over the top amazing experience. I can think of three. Where the host was just odd or the listing was NOT as described. And I reviewed them accordingly and if needed reported them to the site. For listing inaccurately.
All you have to do is read the listing when you’re booking. Look at the pictures and read the reviews. If you believe you are someone who does not have great decision-making skills, poor judgment or simply doesn’t read about what you’re getting, then you might get yourself into a weird situation. It could happen. But if you’re up for saving money, staying in a sweet accommodation and can look at some photos and read some reviews and make a solid decision – then you should be using Airbnb.
They have also added a PLUS category to the site – which is listings that . . . well, PLUS!! And I am so excited to be staying in one in Barcelona this year!!! I will completely keep you posted on how it goes.
How do you like to travel – do you use airbnb – where was your favorite stay??
Or are you still hoteling it??
