Have you had the chance to work any travel into your schedule yet for this year? If you know where you’re going, have you figured out where you are going to stay? There are so many travel accommodations to choose from depending on your budget and where in the world you’re going.
You could stay at a private villa on Grace Bay, the most spectacular beach in Turks and Caicos, or a charming tree house for two in Hawaii. There’s also an assortment of hotels and resorts to choose from, which could be ideal if you’re traveling to a new destination or alone.
Figuring out which travel accommodation suits your needs can be hard, but here are some pros and cons of different travel accommodations to help you not only plan your next trip, but also determine the right one for you.
Villas
If you’re able to experience a private villa just once, you won’t regret it.
The Caribbean and Europe are known for having some spectacular villas. They range from small honeymoon houses to veritable palaces.
“When working with friends and families, I recommend villas as a way to create wonderful memories together,” travel advisor Lena Brown told Travel Market Report. “Having private areas where they can all hang out together is just one of the reasons to stay in a villa.”
There’s almost always the option to add on services, such as housekeeping and a chef, for an extra cost.
A con for renting a villa could be the cost, which can be exorbitant. While some would be willing to spend thousands of dollars a night, that might not appeal to most. Also, unless the staff lives on site, you’re basically on your own in the event an emergency happens.
Hotels or Resorts
If you’re in a country for the first time and don’t feel safe “living” alone, hotels and resorts could work.
Islands, like Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, offer plenty in the way of all-inclusive resorts that are palatable to families and groups of friends. Most resorts are geared towards all ages, but there are a few with a strict “adults-only” policy.
Stumble Safari cautions that there are cons that come with hotels or resorts.
“Hotels, especially chains, are virtually the same around the world, so you may be giving up a cultural experience,” according to the website. “Rooms rarely have a kitchen to cook your own meals, forcing you to go out for meals and spend more money on your trip.”
Airbnb — Home Accommodations
When Airbnb debuted in 2008, it changed the short-term rental scene forever. One of the pros is that the owner of the rental can look out for you during your stay and advise on things to do in the area.
Airbnb has its share of cons, though.
Stumble Safari notes that it has “driven up the cost of living for locals in some cities, as people purchase houses and apartments solely for the purpose of renting them out to travelers.”
There have also been a series of complaints leveled at the rental company giant, including security breaches and last-minute host cancellations
Camping — Accommodations That Are “Roughing It”
Camping is the perfect option for those who like adventure (and don’t mind bugs and other wildlife).
As noted by The World Wanderers website, “staying at a campsite is the most popular option, due to the amenities on offer. Most campsites only charge a couple of dollars for a pitch. More expensive campsites may have a greater range of facilities, such as swimming pools, bars and entertainment. ” Glamping or “glamorous camping” has picked up popularity. The advantages are having access to a real bed and not being at the mercy of the elements.
The cons of camping include abrupt weather changes, limited amenities and poor wi-fi.
Couchsurfing
Fair warning: this option definitely isn’t for those who want all the bells and whistles. It’s humble by design, which makes it palatable for young adult travelers.
A major pro is that not only is it free, you also have a chance to make friends while on the road.
There are a lot of cons with this option. Stumble Safari states that “couch surfing has its risks. You also have to apply for the space and contact the owner. Their home is not always going to be available for everyone, and you may be denied.”
