Airbnb or Hotel: Which One is Best for You?
There are many choices when it comes to accommodations while traveling. With Airbnb coming into the picture, the options have multiplied and there is now more variety than ever.
Of course, there are pros and cons to both hotels and Airbnbs. The one you choose will depend on your preferences and probably where you are traveling to. I’ve stayed in both hotels and Airbnbs and while I tend to lean more towards Airbnbs lately, I have definitely stayed in hotels more often in my lifetime.
Instead of focusing on both the pros and cons of each, I want to highlight the positives. The positives of one are usually what the other is lacking, so I decided to leave out the cons to avoid being redundant.
Hotel
1. 24-hour staff in case you need anything
Checking in at 2am? Air conditioning not working? Hotels are (usually) staffed 24/7 so there is always someone you can call for any issues. This is really nice if you have any issues in the middle of the night or early morning hours.
2. Access to amenities like extra towels/blankets
Most hotels offer basic amenities like shampoo/conditioner, but they also have extra blankets, towels, cots and more. Not to mention the out-of-room amenities some hotels have like an on-site spa, pool and hot tub, complimentary breakfast, happy hour, on-site restaurants, and more.
3. Close to the main areas of each city
Hotels tend to be situated right in the heart of the city, close to popular attractions, restaurants, and other hot spots. This is nice if you don’t want to walk/drive far to the main attractions of the city you’re visiting.
4. You know exactly what to expect
The rooms of conventional hotels all have the same beds, bedding, bathrooms, etc. You know what you’re going to get and there are not any unwelcome surprises (like a bathroom full of mold – thank you, Madrid Airbnb).
5. Professional staff trained in hospitality
There is a level of professionalism you get from a hotel that you might not with an Airbnb. The staff has all been trained, hotel managers often studied hospitality in school, and there is a standard that must be met.
6. Guaranteed maid service
Coming home after a long day to a tidied room with made beds feels so nice. While you might not want to shine a black light in a hotel room, you know that it is being cleaned and tidied before, during, and after your stay.
7. Earn loyalty points
While I, a millennial who books the cheapest places possible, might not stay loyal to one hotel brand, you can earn loyalty points if you do! Racking up loyalty points means discounts and free stays all over the world (depending on the program and how often you book hotels).
In summary, hotels are great if you want to splurge a bit to get that extra level of quality, convenience, and care. They also tend to be a better option for families because of the 24/7 staff, ease of check-in/check-out, and daily maid service. If you are someone who must have the amenities and likes to be close to the action, a hotel might be the best option for you!
AirbnB
1. Unique and cool accommodation
One of best things about Airbnbs is the wild variety you can get with them. They are unique homes, apartments, and condos (sometimes even tree houses!) that have been decorated by one person or family so they don’t have the boring, ordinary hotel decor.
2. Situated in more local/less touristy areas
Airbnbs are all over the place, so you can find some in city centers, but I love staying in more local areas when traveling. It gives you a better feel of what the city is really like, new experiences you might not get in the touristy areas, and you will be surrounded by local people and culture.
3. Earn Airbnb credit for referring friends
That’s right! Airbnb has a affiliate program where you can give friends $40 off their first Airbnb stay and YOU get credit for future stays after they take their first trip!
4. Have your own space and privacy
Unlike hotels, Airbnbs are completely your own space (if you choose “entire home” instead of “private room” or “shared room”). There aren’t lobbies or common areas – it’s all for you! Especially if you rent a house instead of a condo or apartment, you’ll have all 4 walls without sharing any along with a front yard/backyard.
5. full kitchen to cook in
We cooked more often than not while staying in Airbnbs throughout Europe which not only saved money, but felt more cozy and comforting. Airbnbs are homes, so they typically have full kitchens! Getting to have home-cooked meals while traveling is such a nice feeling and you can’t really get that with a hotel.
6. feels like a home
Between having your own space, eating home-cooked meals, and being in a furnished/decorated house, staying in an Airbnb truly feels like home. Granted, not all Airbnb’s are the same and some may be more homey than others.
7. Make friends with a local
Airbnbs tend to be hosted by locals in the area and some come to meet you in-person for check-in. They will show you around the Airbnb, maybe give you some tips about things to see and places to eat, and make sure that you are comfortable. You might just make a connection and gain a new friend!
Airbnbs are a great option if you want a more comfortable, home-base to come back to after a day of exploring a new place. You can get a lot more for your money in terms of space, there is a full kitchen to cook meals (which also saves you money), and get a less-touristy experience of the place you’re visiting.
Which one is best for you?
Now to decide which one is best for you!
I lean towards Airbnbs while traveling internationally because I love getting to stay in a local home and get a true feel of what it is like to live there. There is always a slight risk and element of surprise when staying at an Airbnb and seeing it for the first time, but I’ve had more good experiences than bad.
Hotels offer a bit more luxury and convenience. I prefer hotels/condos when we go to Hawaii because it is really nice to have restaurants on-site, a pool just steps away from the room and beach, you can order take out from the on-site restaurant and eat it on the beach, and the rooms on upper levels have amazing views of the pool or beach (or both!).
