The type of accommodation you choose to stay in while traveling will have a big impact on your experience. Whether you are backpacking around Southeast Asia or having an Eat, Pray, Love experience in Paris, it’s essential to find the right place to lay your head. This will determine how much time you spend exploring your destination and whether you’ll be able to afford other things, like airfare and food.
The best way to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck is to stay in accommodation that offers amenities you actually need. This means things like a complimentary breakfast or wifi that works. These little perks can add up to significant savings on your travel budget.
While it might be tempting to stay in a hotel because of its location, consider other factors, such as whether it is close to the places you want to visit and how noisy or quiet the area is. Also, check out reviews of the hotels you are considering from travelers who have visited there before. These honest opinions can save you a lot of hassle and money.
Lastly, if you are traveling on a budget, consider the time of year you’ll be going to your destination. If you can, try to go during the shoulder season or off-season when it will be cheaper and less crowded. This will allow you to get more out of your trip, and avoid crowds that may distract you from enjoying the local culture.
Another thing to keep in mind is hidden fees when choosing accommodation. While some hotels have gotten better at holding back on these, they still exist. Be sure to ask for a full breakdown of all the charges before you book. You can often find information online, but it’s always a good idea to contact the accommodation directly.
Both hotels and Airbnb can offer some great amenities to attract guests. Hotel brands have stepped up their game and are now offering things like complimentary hairspray, deodorant, and travel-sized toiletries. They are also bringing in fitness centers, spas, and rooftop bars to appeal to travelers. In addition, many Airbnb hosts now offer perks such as discounted tour tickets and pub-crawls.
However, Airbnb is a more affordable option for long stays and can offer space that is hard to match at hotels. It is worth checking out Airbnb for both short and extended stays, but just be sure to research the fine print carefully. This includes the cancellation policy, as there are some rentals with extra charges that can catch you by surprise. Lastly, it’s a good idea to find out if your accommodations have a guest loyalty program if you are a frequent visitor. This can give you access to exclusive deals and even earn you free stays in the future. If they are partnered with your airline’s frequent flier program, this can be especially beneficial. You can also use websites such as Yelp to see real-life photos of hotels and read candid reviews from previous visitors.