So I tried Airbnb....and sort of like it?
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
As a budding travel enthusiast, I’m always trying to save
money when possible when abroad. So when my friends mentioned that they were
staying in Paris at discounted weeks I had to see if it was too good to be true
and try it out for myself. As my friend and I looked at the possibilities for a
Parisian flat for the week we grew more excited by the chic styles,
affordability, and comfort that each place had to offer. Here are a few tips
for first-timers trying Airbnb
#1) Be aware of false advertisement
When I was
searching for apartments to stay at during our time in Paris I made sure that
we were located in areas that were accessible to public transit and that were
in walking distance of some of our favorite cafes. Some listings are advertised
on Airbnb as being located in ‘Paris’ when they are actually 15 minutes from
the periphery of Paris. The map is your friend, use it!
#2) Understand that cheap isn’t always the best
Know your limits
both financially and personally. I’d rather spend more many on my stay at an
Airbnb and have an entire apartment to myself than reserve a bunk bed for 5
euros a night crammed next to ten other guests.
#3) Communicate with your hosts/ potential hosts
I admit that sometimes
I have trouble with this piece of advice myself when I was trying to book a
place. Hosts are there to help and give you guidance during your stay. Contact
your hosts of your travel plans (both for arriving and leaving) in advance so
that they can plan accordingly. In the same manner if the state of the
apartment isn’t up to par, mention this to them. You have a right as a
customer.
In the same manner,
if you plan on staying in a place long-term with Airbnb feel free to see if you
can visit the premises before you give them over your credit card information.
Most hosts understand this. Understand also that if you do plan on staying long
term that there might be additional fees (such as taxes or internet bills) that
are usually covered in short term stays.
Finally, understand that not every host is suited for you. Not everyone
is meant to be together. Period.
#4) Take pictures of your Airbnb when you arrive/Clean
One of my biggest
regrets was not taking pictures of the condition of our apartment when we first
arrived. Taking pictures allows for you to use a point of reference for how the
apartment should look upon departure as well as solve issues between you and
your hosts on cleanliness. Remember to clean before you leave and follow your
host’s rules on leaving the premises.
#5) Just because you booked a place doesn’t mean you’re
guaranteed to get it
Your host has 24 hours to respond to your request for
Airbnb. At times hosts simply do not respond to requests and you will then have
to select another Airbnb for your stay. Instant booking allows for the stress
of not knowing to disappear. Be aware of cancelation policies and that your
host can cancel on you at a drop of a hat.
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