Now that there are so many accommodation options, travelers are left wondering what should they choose. One of the most frequent question a globetrotter asks himself is if he should stay at a hotel, a hostel, or Airbnb.
Well, no exact answer can be given here, as each type of accommodation comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Even though it all comes down to personal preferences, there are a few criteria that you should take into consideration before choosing an accommodation:
Staying at a Hotel
Hotels are the costliest option out of the bunch. But the prices and accessibility depend a lot on your location. Remote areas have fewer hotels, but they might have more hostels and Airbnb options. Popular travel destinations usually come with much more options.
Amenities usually include kitchen, laundry facilities, parking spaces, gyms, private bathrooms, and showers. Hotel rooms are also much more comfortable and more aesthetically decorated.
Usually, hotels have working staff on wait to serve you, as well as some restaurant, bar, coffee or store on-site, meaning you have everything you need near to you. But hotels usually tend to have more additional costs for their services.
If money isn’t an issue, people often opt for hotels if they’re seeking an option that has a higher degree of comfort and amenities.
Staying at a Hostel
If privacy is what you’re looking for, then hostels are not for you. If you are planning on staying at a hostel, you have to keep in mind that you‘ll have to share almost everything with the other guests: living quarters, bathrooms, facilities, etc.
Hostels are ideal for students and backpackers that need a place to sleep or bathe and plan on spending most of their time exploring. They’re also a great way to socialize with other travelers as there are common areas (sometimes with a bar) where guests gather to chat and have fun.
Unlike a hotel, hostels usually require you to share a room with multiple strangers, unless you ask for a private room (not available at all hostels).
The main advantage is that the prices are considerably lower than those at hotels, as the cheapest hotel will always be costlier than a hostel from that same area.
Safety is an issue since the room is shared, making it a less secure option than a private hotel room.
Staying at an Airbnb
Airbnb is a website that lets you rent a home, apartment or room in the location you plan to visit. Travelers can search their accommodation according to the price, size, and location they’re interested in.
Airbnb lets you book more private quarters, but this option usually requires additional costs, as, obviously, private rooms cost more than shared ones.
The price is usually situated somewhere between a hotel and a hostel, depending on a variety of factors.
There will be no amenities provided by the facility you are staying in. That means that you’ll have to change and wash the sheets yourself, as well as cook and clean.
Sometimes, the owner of the place will live with you, but this can be an advantage if you want to know more about the region you’re traveling to, or if you want to experience how locals live.
Conclusion
Hotels are the best option for you if privacy and comfort are important to you, and if you have a flexible budget.
Hostels are for those that want to save money and have no problem socializing with fellow travelers.
Airbnb is somewhere in midway hotels and hostels. It allows you to save money and still book a private place and experience living as the locals do. Though, to find the accommodation you desire, you need a lot of patience to go through thousands of listings.
No matter what kind of accommodation you opt for, make sure to enjoy your travels and make the most of your journey.
