With summer just around the corner, aren’t we all dreaming about the adventures to come? To just pack up and leave for the summer months and relocate to a fabulous beach house where life is simple.
I thought I would keep this post a little lighter than usual and just show you some of the most beautiful summer homes available to us through Air BnB.
Thanks to a revaluation that’s been quietly taking place for the last five or six years, there’s never been more choice for travellers when it comes to finding a place to lay your head. With Air BnB now having over 1.6million listings across the world, the accommodation possibilities are endless — and so unique.
Welcome to 2015, where the traditional idea of what constitutes “normal” accommodation is gone. There’s no check-in desk. There’s no concierge. There’s no bellboy, no room service, no mini-bar, no restaurant, no day spa, and no breakfast buffet. Sometimes, there isn’t even a room.
See below some AMAZING holiday spots I have found across the world…
1. Casa Dos Chicos hilltop villa- :: Nayarit, Sayulita, Mexico
Accommodates 8 approx $591 per night
2. El Centro, stunning villa with pool :: San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico
Accommodates 6 approx $422 per night
3. Modern 6 Bed/pool in Beverly Hills :: Beverly Hills, CA, United States
Accommodates 10 approx $13,287AUD /week
5. Spectacular modern villa in Pipa :: Praia da Pipa, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Accommodates 6 approx $2493AUD /week
For most of us, this is such a new thing. Should we trust it, are we going to get scammed? I have found some answers to those questions that may help with piece of mind before jumping on and finding that dream holiday destination.
Tips and Tricks when booking Air BnB ::
1. Always look for a triangular, “A” watermark in the top right hand of photos. This indicates that the owners had professional Airbnb photographers come out and snap photos. This means that you shouldn’t be surprised when you arrive – what you see is what you get.
2. Remember that you’re being rated as well. Airbnb’s rating system goes both ways so make sure you are a great guest.
3. Make sure you read the owner’s cancellation policy very carefully. Airbnb hosts can use one of five different cancellation policies. Make sure it’s one you are happy with.
4. Try and contact the owner directly before requesting to book. A quick email or phone call can make your experience more comfortable for you and for them.
5. Always keep an eye on your email (and junk folder) after booking. If the owner has to cancel or something changes, you won’t know unless you check your email.
6. Remember it’s not a hotel. You cannot expect the owner to wait around all day for you to show up. Stick to times that you have suggested because there is no formal check-in desk and you don’t want to start off your holiday on the wrong foot.
7. All transactions go through Airbnb’s website. Face to face cash swaps are actually 100% forbidden under Airbnb rules so whatever you do — don’t exchange cash. You’ll pick a place you’d like to stay and request a reservation. If there’s a problem, contact Airbnb within the first 24 hours, and they will put a hold on the payment.
How exciting. I know that I will be using Air B&B on my trip to Bali early next year.
Georgie xx
:: All images from airbnd.com.au ::
