How to Make the Most Out of Your Airbnb Experience
6 Essential Steps I Take Before Booking an Airbnb Insights from My Solo Travels to 100+ Unique Destinations
A travel enthusiast, I’ve booked over 100 Airbnbs worldwide. Here’s my checklist before making a reservation.
Picture this: you’re sitting on a cozy patio by the ocean, sipping tea from a vibrant teapot, surrounded by lush greenery. Ah, the bliss of a perfect Airbnb stay! I’ve stayed in 100 Airbnbs across 50 countries, and let me tell you, I’ve mastered the art of finding that delightful mix of comfort and style.
Now, let me share with you some insider tips that will elevate your Airbnb experience from “meh” to marvelous:
1. Book just outside of peak season – say hello to savings!
Why pay a fortune for a stay when you can nab a sweet deal just by tweaking your travel dates? Booking just outside of the peak season can save you a pretty penny. Trust me on this! Once, I scored a 28-night stay in a stunning beach town in Montenegro for a mere $540! That’s the power of avoiding those peak-season crowds and prices.
2. Do some digging before ruling out a place with no reviews – hidden gems await!
We know that reviews are the lifeblood of any Airbnb listing, but sometimes a fabulous gem may not have any reviews just because it’s new to the platform. Don’t dismiss it so quickly! Instead, be a detective and check out the host’s profile. They might have other properties with stellar reviews, so you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.
3. Remain vigilant when reading reviews – beware of the smoke and mirrors!
Reviews can be a tricky maze of hidden agendas and biased opinions. To dodge the pitfalls of fake reviews, keep an eye out for some telltale signs. If the reviewers haven’t stayed elsewhere, there might be a connection with the host. And if a host has multiple listings with reviews from the same people, it’s time to raise an eyebrow. Stay sharp, my fellow adventurers!
4. Ask the host to test the home’s internet speed before booking – because strong Wi-Fi is a must!
Picture this: you’re working remotely from your Airbnb, on an important video call, but your Wi-Fi is slower than a snail on a lazy Sunday morning. Disaster! As a digital nomad, internet speed is my holy grail. So, I’ve learned to ask my hosts for internet speed tests before booking. It’s like the Airbnb Olympics of connectivity. Winning!
5. Check who else will be on the property – no surprises, please!
Imagine arriving at your Airbnb, all excited about a peaceful retreat, only to discover a surprise roommate lurking in the shadows. Yikes! To avoid awkward encounters, always ask if the host lives on the property or if they have other Airbnb guests. Clearing up those details beforehand will ensure smooth sailing during your stay.
6. Look for homes that offer self-check-in – because flexibility is your new BFF!
Life doesn’t always adhere to a strict schedule, and neither should your Airbnb stay. When you’re a free spirit with a penchant for late-night adventures, finding a place that offers self-check-in is a game-changer. No more worrying about meeting the host at ungodly hours. Just breeze in, unpack, and let the good times roll.
And there you have it, my fashion-forward friends! These tips will help you unlock the secret wonders of Airbnb. Now go forth, book your dream getaway, and remember, the beauty of travel lies in the details!
What’s your secret to finding the perfect Airbnb? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
