Ditch Hotels forever with AirBnB

While in the process of planning a long awaited vacation abroad at  the end of this summer, the question of where we would stay during our international escapades became a hot topic of debate particularly due to lack of cash flow. When traveling as a couple, the idea of fighting for shared bunk space in a dirty hostel is less than ideal. But we’re also a little young and cash-strapped to be staying at posh hotels or “charming” bed and breakfasts. I’m really not one to be sharing small talk and danishes with strangers awkwardly over breakfast. Then I found my travel salvation in the web start-up AirBnB.

Apparently I was late in my discovery, since every publication print and online has been singing the praises of this San Francisco based company for over a year now. While Craigslist has long dominated the world of online classifieds, AirBnB has perfected the process of renting out spaces from strangers, and all transactions are all done beforehand using their secure transaction system. Since its launch, the site’s listings are now offered in more than 44,000 cities and 135 countries.  Listings include everything from more conventional spaces like studio apartments or spare rooms to even rooftop bedrooms and treehouses. You can search by types of accommodations, location and most importantly price.  Whether you’re looking to do a quick weekend getaway or week long trip abroad, you can stay in slick accommodations at the fraction of the price a hotel would cost.

The financial benefits work both ways, especially for those who are looking to make some extra money on the side by renting out their space. While some of the spaces you get to yourself others involve the occupant playing host to out of town guests. It’s also a great option for visiting family, particularly when you live in hotel sparse areas like Brooklyn where the closet cheap place to stay is a Best Western in Long Island City. It makes for awkward encounters when you come home at 4 am to your father crashing on your fold-out. Even if airfare is usually the biggest financial obstacle when it comes to planning a trip, AirBnB gives you the option to treat yourself to a little staycation in your hometown.  So the next time you finding yourself getting cabin fever to get out of the city, try staking out some modern loft for the weekend where you can play house while you sip on cheap champagne in your underpants.  You take life’s luxuries when you can get it.

Photo Courtesy of: NY Daily News