The rise of house sharing has transformed the way people travel. Rather than spending loads of money booking a hotel in cities throughout Europe, many travelers are instead opting to use services like Airbnb to find short-term house and apartment rentals in their destinations.
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not this is the right option for you, consider the following benefits of short-term rentals:
You May Be Surprised by European Hotels
If you’re an American traveling to Europe, you might find that European hotels aren’t what you’re expecting. The rooms, particularly in the major cities, are often very small, and rather than a luxurious king bed, you may find yourself facing single beds. Of course, there are luxury hotels in Europe that may be more like what you’re used to seeing, but you’re going to pay a premium for these lodging options.
Save Money
In many cases, when you opt to rent an apartment you’re going to get more space for the money than you would at a hotel, but if you’re sharing the space with other travelers, you’ll save even more money. For example, if you’re traveling with a few friends you can split the cost of the apartment three ways, giving you a great financial benefit.
A Kitchen
Most of the short-term rentals you’ll find in Europe are going to have a kitchen, and this is convenient so you can prepare at least some of your meals while you’re traveling, saving money on eating out. Having a kitchen can also be perfect for doing simple things, like brewing a cup of coffee or tea without having to leave. As well as a kitchen, you may also find your apartment is equipped with everyday conveniences like a dining table, so you can have a relaxed morning before setting off for the events of your day.
Local Point of View
If you want to travel to Europe and really explore beyond the tourist hotspots, renting an apartment is likely the perfect lodging option for you. When you stay at a hotel, you’re probably going to be away from the local shops, bakeries, and cafes that make a city or town unique. Instead, you’re going to be in tourist centers, and you may not get that authentic experience you want. If you do some research ahead of time, you can often find short-term rentals that are in vibrant neighborhoods, with exciting options you might never otherwise come across staying in a traditional hotel, or in some cases even a hostel.
Family-Friendly
If you’re traveling with children or a family, an apartment can be a much better lodging option than a hotel. With a hotel, you may end up crowding into one room uncomfortably, or having to book several adjoining rooms. It can be difficult to manage children in a small hotel room as well. Booking an apartment or short-term home rental alleviates these issues. You’ll have a set-up that’s more like what you have at home, which can lead to a more pleasant and relaxed experience for everyone.
Of course, renting an apartment isn’t for everyone, but there are many situations where it’s going to be advantageous as compared to other lodging options. Using a service like GoEuro can help travelers plan the logistics of all of their travel, from planes and trains to Airbnb accommodations.
