Last October, my family and I had our first trip to Europe. Since it was our first trip to Europe, we had no clue on where to stay. We had to search everything ourselves and look for hotels that were easy on the pocket. We couldn’t look for affordable hotels so we decided to try out AirBNB.
I have heard of AirBNB for a few years already and at the beginning, I was quite hesitant. If you are not familiar, AirBNB is a site where tourists can rent local’s apartments and feel like they are at home away from home. It gives the locals the chance to earn some cash from renting their apartments to other tourists.
My Experience
Our first trip was held at Edinburgh, Scotland. The place we got in Edinburgh is located at Rose St., within the city center. Everywhere we went to was a walking distance. We barely rode any taxis while roaming around the city. Even while bringing our luggages to and fro the train station, we didn’t bother getting a taxi. The only time we rode a public transportation was when we went to St. Andrews to visit the history of golf.
Since it was our first time to avail of an AirBNB, we had no idea if the place had an elevator to manage our luggage. We were only able to find out as we arrived the apartment. We had to carry our luggage in 4 flights of stairs. As we went in the apartment, I was pleased with the outcome because the way the apartment looks in real life exactly looks like how it was posted in the AirBNB website.
The owner of the apartment, Lynne, was courteous and hospitable. We were not able to meet up with her during our stay in Edinburgh since she was also on vacation. We met with her friend, Claire instead. Inside the apartment, there is this booklet where you can find instructions during your stay and how to operate certain items like the heater, TV, etc. After your stay, you are recommended to leave a review so that other guests can see it and how the owner of the apartment can improve some more. Below are pictures of the apartment of Lynne:
Disclaimer: Got the pictures through the owner’s page in AirBNB
After Edinburgh, London was the next place in our itinerary. This is where we had our 2nd trial of AirBNB. The apartment’s located at Central Limehouse. From King’s Cross Station, it will take you 30 minutes to reach Limehouse Station. The apartment was near the train station. It will take you around 5 minutes just to walk to the train station. It will take you a bus stop away to go to attractions like Tower Bridge, St. Paul, Trafalgar Square.
When we reached the apartment, we were not able to meet Stephenie (owner) since she was busy that day. She was able to give me clear instructions on how to get in the apartment and what we should do before checking out. Security of the apartment was tight indeed. But, we had a hard time to get in. The door that time could not open remotely. A kind gentleman was able to help us get in instead. After that small incident, everything went smoothly.
Stephenie’s apartment was cozy. The place looked exactly like the pictures posted in the AirBNB website. What lacked in her amenities were the duvets. But, it was okay since we were able to find a way for me not to feel cold while I slept on the couch. Other amenities that we needed can be found in her apartment.
Disclaimer: Got the pictures through the owner’s page in AirBNB
With the way that AirBNB is changing the travel industry, I will definitely use AirBNB for my future travels. AirBNB is ideal for big groups and families. If you are a solo traveler and don’t have the budget, then I highly suggest you check out websites like Agoda.
TIPS
MAKE SURE to check the host’s reviews. It is through the reviews that you will know how secure a place will be.
If you need to confirm something with your desired home, always make sure to leave a message to the host before clicking the book button. You want to make sure that the host can accommodate to your needs.
Take care of the host’s belongings and be a great tenant!
Relax and have fun!
Have you ever tried AirBNB? If so, kindly share your experience. If you haven’t, would you want to try it out? Why or why not?
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