Warts and all Airbnb review – What You need to Know

By Guest Blogger, Marie N.

Warts and all Airbnb review – What You need to Know

 

Almost ten years since it hit the market in 2008, Airbnb has become a staple for lodging services in the modern global society. Travelers, tourists, businessmen and women from all around the world are using Airbnb as a means to experience modern travel in a unique way from what was considered to be the norm, much to the chagrin of hotel chains.

If you are unfamiliar with how Airbnb works, and whether you should give this popular network a whirl, here are the pros and cons of Airbnb that will put your mind at ease and allow you to make the best possible decision in terms of money, accommodation, and experience. Let’s dig in.

Pro: a travel experience

Firstly, while Airbnb hosts a wide variety of demographic, it is important to note that it is primarily centered on travelers. But who is a traveler? A traveler can be anyone, and it can be a very unique persona, it all depends on the nature of your trip.

If you are a tourist, looking to experience the pampering that hotel chains offer, then Airbnb might not be the thing for you. However, if you are looking to imbue your mind, body and soul with different cultures, customs and the local way of life, then look no further.

Because you are staying in an apartment or a house, devoid of any management or room service (apart from what the host provides) you will be instantly thrown into the center of the local community, and their way of life. This is truly a unique experience, one which more and more people are opting for.

 

Con: non-professional hosting

Bear in mind that the majority of hosts are not professionals, as in they lack the training and experience of say a hotel manager. While there are extraordinary hosts on the platform with stellar reviews and recommendations, and while the quality of service is increasing across the board with each passing year, there is always a possibility that you will run into a host that is a bit unprofessional.

Fortunately though, unprofessional hosts are slowly becoming a thing of the past. Property management around the world, most notably the growing Airbnb property management in Sydney, has brought professionalism into private lodging that now rivals that of the finest hotels. With the rise of property management, travelers can rest assured that they will have an amazing stay.

 

Pro: cheaper than a hotel

Why do hotel chains twitch at the mention of Airbnb, you ask? Because not only does private accommodation offer freedom and a unique travel experience, it’s also cheaper than paying for a hotel room. This makes Airbnb an excellent choice for those traveling on a budget.

However, bear in mind that Airbnb hosts lodging options of every kind, from cheap rooms to luxurious houses, so there is something for everyone. If you have some extra cash to spend, you can definitely experience luxury on your travels using Airbnb.

Con: misleading photos

There is always a possibility that the accommodation is not the same as it was presented on the website, however, given the fact that Airbnb has strict rules and penalties for such cases, it’s less of an occurrence with each passing year. Be sure to communicate with the host and read all of the reviews before placing your reservation in order to avoid such situations.

 

Pro: your own place

Finally, the thing that is amazing about Airbnb and the thing that millions of people from around the world love, is the fact that you get to be in “your” own place, at least for the duration of your stay.

While hotel rooms are predominantly stale and mundane, often devoid of any personality or ambiance, private accommodation is usually rich in culture, personality, and has a unique flair. There is nothing quite like staying at a place that is meant to accommodate real people, as opposed to a hotel room with a bed and a minibar.

Airbnb is certainly not a platform without its quirks that need to be looked at, but it sure is a fun and inexpensive way to travel. Hopefully, these pros and cons gave you the information you need to make your next journey as pleasant and unforgettable as possible.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
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