Have you ever found yourself thinking what kind of accommodation you should be booking for your next holiday? Would a hotel room or a private home be the best option for your upcoming trip? As booking private homes has become really popular lately, we decided to point out some pros and cons for both of these accommodation services.
On one hand, the idea of being home away from home definitely sounds good but staying in a clean & comfy hotel is also appealing. On the other hand, some people have safety concerns regarding private homes and others don’t like the constant buzz of the hotels.
So, which accommodation is more suitable for your holiday: booking a hotel or a private home? It really depends on your preferences, destination and the group you’re travelling with. We gathered some facts after travelling and staying quite a few times in both hotels and private homes as well. Here are some ideas that will help you decide easier.
Booking a Private Home: The Pros and Cons
Private homes are cosier, more comfortable and usually, they have all the amenities you might need during your stay. However, you have to be aware of the house rules and what is permitted. You host will fill you in on this or you will find the rules in the home.
If you are travelling with a group or with your family, booking a private home might be a better choice. First, you will be able to enjoy time together without having your beds next to each other. Second, this type of accommodation might be the cheaper option. You will be able to cut costs on meals as well if you prepare something together. If you’re not travelling with a group, another option is to rent a room in a shared flat.
Another good thing about booking a private home is that you will have the flexibility to meet with the host. Some homes have a self check in so you won’t need to meet the host at all. However, not all homes have these options and your hosts might be late which not a nice situation to be in while on holiday.
There is always an element of risk when booking a private home. However, you can avoid this by taking some easy steps before placing the booking. First, make sure you book only from well-known sites and from verified profiles. Next, check the reviews – this way you will be aware if something went wrong during other people’s stay.
Hosts are usually very friendly people. They know the neighbourhood well so they can share some tips and tricks or recommend a few nice things to do. These insights come in handy especially if you don’t live in the centre or if you don’t have a tour guide to show you around.
When booking a private home, an inconvenience can be the cancellation which is not always flexible. Make sure to check this before booking your accommodation. You might not need it but it’s better to have it, just in case.
So, to sum up, booking a private home can be both a great experience but also an unpleasant one if certain things don’t go well. This depends on your hosts, your preferences and also on some unforeseeable events. However, if you have a flexible itinerary and you’re travelling with a group of friends, it’s a great way to enjoy a cosy home on a budget.
Booking a Hotel Room: The Pros and Cons
Hotels ensure certain security most people prefer to have. If you choose to go to a hotel, there is always someone there to help you out in case anything happens. Whether you have a question, you need something or if there is an emergency, you will be able to ask for and get help shortly. This can come in handy especially if you go to a country where you don’t speak the language.
Hotels are also a better accommodation choice if you don’t know your exact arrival time because you don’t have to establish a common meeting time. Also, you won’t be running late and you won’t be losing holiday-time waiting for someone else.
If you book a hotel and there is something wrong with your room, you won’t have to worry. At a hotel, you will always be given another room or the problem will be fixed shortly. This does not necessarily apply to a private home. Although hosts will probably do their best, some things don’t have a quick solution.
If you choose a hotel, you can book special offers or last-minute deals. Whether these are all-inclusive packages, access to on-site facilities or just breakfast, you can take advantage of the offers and maybe enjoy some pampering.
On-site facilities are great to have and most hotels have a few. So, you can easily have a meal at the hotel restaurant if you don’t want to go out. Or, you can take advantage of the spa and enjoy some relaxing time or you can work out at the gym.
Booking Your Holiday Accommodation: Hotel vs. Private Home?
So, should you consider booking a hotel room or vacation home for your next trip? Well, there is no right or wrong. It really depends on the accommodation options available for your destination and the exact situation.
The important thing is to keep in mind your preferences and your itinerary as well. For example, if you will be out all day, booking a hotel might be a good decision. But if you are going to pop in during the day, booking a private home might offer more comfort as you will also have a lounge area where to relax a bit.
Think about the pros & cons of both options and book your accommodation based on them!
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