AirBnB vs Hotel: What’s the Best Lodging Option When on Vacation?
Over the years, staying in a hotel was always the standard when people went on vacation. However, now with the emergence of AirBnB and sites like it, people are wondering if staying at a hotel is still the best option. Today, we’re going to compare which is the best lodging option: AirBnB vs Hotel.
It used to be that hotels were your only lodging option when traveling. But now, with the booming popularity of Airbnb, your options have grown by leaps and bounds.
And while having a variety of places to choose from is great, it also brings about the inevitable question… which one should I choose?
The Airbnb vs hotel debate has many pros and cons. But it all comes down to personal preference and the kind of getaway experience you’re after.
Let’s look at the advantages of each to help you decide between a hotel or Airbnb for your next vacation.
Advantages of Staying in a Hotel
Hotels are a great option for those who have a short trip planned. Or for those wanting the convenience only a hotel can offer.
It’s the full-service pampering that many people want during a getaway.
Convenience
With hotels, you know what you’re getting. Because the service and expectations are relatively the same no matter where you go or where you stay.
You know there’s always going to be someone there to check you in upon arrival. You know your room will be cleaned daily. And how you’re supposed to leave everything when it’s time for you to go.
This is very appealing to those who don’t want a lot to worry about while away from home. The more off your plate, the more you can relax.
24/7 Service
If something should go bad in the middle of the night, it’s always reassuring to know someone will be there to help out. Or if you get a craving for a 2am cheeseburger, you can always call down and have one delivered to your room.
Having 24/7 service is a must for many people. This is especially true when you’re away from home and in a brand new place.
It’s a great feeling to know that someone is always there to help fulfill our needs no matter what time of day it is.
Amenities
Feel like taking a dip in a swimming pool? How about getting in a morning workout? Or maybe you need help getting tickets to a local show?
Hotels offer a wide array of enticing amenities. Things you can’t find in most Airbnb’s.
From activities to concierge services and about everything in between, you know there will be plenty to do at your hotel that will keep the whole family entertained.
Location, Location, Location
Most hotels are situated in ideal locations for both vacations and business travel needs. Whether it is next to a theme park or attached to a conference center, chances are you’ll be able to find one in the location that’s perfect for your plans.
Many of them will offer shuttle services to/from the airport or major attractions. And there are a variety of restaurants and shops within walking distance. This eliminates the need to rent a car and find your way through unfamiliar areas and into residential neighborhoods.
Advantages of Staying in an Airbnb
Airbnb’s are ideal when you want a unique vacation rental experience. They can feel more personal, homey, and compliment a long stay somewhere or a trip with a larger group of people.
Stay like a Local
Since Airbnb’s are local homes and apartments, you’ll find yourself off the beaten path and surrounded by a local experience. An experience that can make you feel like a local yourself.
No more tripping over other tourists or finding yourself in the middle of the pricey tourist traps. You’ll be able to explore restaurants and shops in areas you likely wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
You’ll also have more opportunities to meet local people and learn about attractions that aren’t in the main tour guides.
Can Help You Save Money
Booking an Airbnb can save you money in more ways than one. Which is a major draw for many travelers.
There are no hidden fees when booking, everything is listed out for you. That means no tacked on tax, resort fees, or any other add-ons hotels may charge after your stay.
Plus, you’ll likely have your own kitchen which means you can cook for yourself. If there’s very many of you, that can easily add up to big savings versus eating out for every meal.
And speaking of traveling in a group, the more people you travel with, the more booking an Airbnb can save each of you on the total bill.
Private Space and More of It
Hotel rooms are nice, but they all seem to be packed in together and limited on space. That’s not true with an Airbnb, however.
By renting out an entire apartment or home, you can have all the space you need. Which can come in especially handy when traveling with a large group of people. Or even if you bring the family pet.
And you can have separate rooms to get away… because we all need time for personal space. Even on vacation.
The Comforts of Home
Most people travel to relax. And many of those prefer to have the comforts of home to truly get the relaxed feeling they crave.
This means having a living room to watch TV in. A kitchen to cook meals in. And separate bedrooms for everyone to retire to at the end of the day.
You may even have your own laundry room to do some washing up.
Hotel rooms can be nice, but they will always feel like a hotel room. When you rent an Airbnb, you get more of that homey feeling you’re looking for.
Airbnb vs Hotel: It’s All About Meeting Your Particular Needs
There’s no perfect option for everyone. When it comes to the Airbnb vs hotel debate, the winner depends on what your needs are for each individual trip.
And really, that’s great news for us all. No matter what, there is an option out there that will compliment your next trip. That’s a win-win for everyone.
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