Staying in an Airbnb apartment when traveling can be an overwhelming experience. This type of vacationing is usually a lot more exciting and a lot more rewarding than simply sleeping in a hotel or a B&B.
Airbnb apartments are usually reasonably priced and add a unique, personal touch to your travels. However, if you are a first-timer, there are some tips that you need to follow to avoid unpleasantries and make the experience positive both for yourself and your host.
Read the Reviews
Before deciding which Airbnb apartment to go for, make sure you read as many reviews as you can. Don’t choose the place only by looking at the pictures. Each host has a different personality and preferences, which you can learn about if you spend a couple of minutes reading what other guests have written.
This way, you can make an informed guess as to whether you will click with your host and if that is what you’re looking for. Similarly, when you finish your stay, write a compelling and informative review of your experience, and try to be as objective as possible.
Share Your Schedule
Sometimes, when you’re renting an Airbnb apartment, the host will reside in the same house or the same apartment. If that is the case, talk about your schedule with your host and make sure you remember theirs as well. This is especially important if you are planning on leaving very early or coming to your Airbnb very late at night.
Additionally, talk about the bathroom use if you are sharing one and try to establish a schedule. Make sure not to occupy the bathroom for a long time in the evening or the morning when your host probably needs it as well.
Arrive and Depart on Time
Hosts who rent their place on Airbnb usually do it as an additional source of income and most probably have a full-time job or other personal obligations. Make sure to let them know when you’re going to arrive and leave and try to be on time.
This way, your host won’t have to lose time waiting for you, and they will have enough time to clean the apartment and prepare everything for when the new guests arrive.
Respect Your Host
Respect your host by respecting their home. Ask about any house rules if they are not already clearly shown in the apartment and adhere to these. Be mindful of the furniture and the appliances in the apartment, honor them and don’t break anything. Make sure to clean the apartment before you depart, and leave everything as it was.
No Need for Tipping
Airbnb is never paid in cash. You always pay with your card and the platform usually charges a surplus to protect you and the host, just in case. There is no need to offer your host a tip since they do not provide a service. Most of the time, they reside in the same premises that they rent out. If you want, you can give them a gift, or write them a kind note.
