If you didn't already know, I LOVE Airbnb
Airbnb has been one of the most useful Apps I've ever downloaded onto my iPhone. If you're looking for unique places to stay, at very great rates, and have interaction with some great locals... Airbnb is for you. Now, I know that many people are skeptical about the whole "staying in a stranger's house" thing, but with Airbnb, it's SO easy to weed out the "sketchy" rooms from those of great promise! You can easily see all of the reviews from others who have stayed there and great pictures of the place, information about the host, and even amenities offered once you arrive. All money transactions are done on the secure site, and there is no handling of money once you arrive.
That being said, I have stayed in A LOT of great homes, cottages, and even bamboo-woven nests. It's hard to choose just 5, but here is a list of the ALL-STARS. I recommend each of these places personally, so if you find yourself traveling to any of these destinations, check them out!
1. Portland, Maine USA
Sweet East Bayside Bedroom
http://abnb.me/EVmg/B1CP6U768A
First of all, I LOVE Portland, Maine. Secondly, I loved this accommodation. The hosts, Rosalee and Toby, will go out of there way to make sure you have a great time. They had no problem answering any questions about the city. The room is a beautifully painted room, lined with walls of books, a desk, a coffee pot and has a very comfortable full-size bed.
Outside, there is the porch with rocking chairs and you're only minutes from Old Port. It's only a bedroom for rent, so you share the rest of the home with the family, including the bathroom. However, there was never an issue there- plus the bathroom is very nice and clean. This rustic house will make you feel right at home in this beautiful port city, and will cost you about $49 a night.
2. Medellin, Colombia
Small Room with Bathroom
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/11212198
From the moment I arrived, Felipe warmly welcomed me and went over everything I may possibly need to know during my stay. The room is quiet, at the back of the house, and the window over the bed opens to a small little garden area, perfect for having breakfast every morning. You have your own private bathroom, which is clean and remodeled. There are two other tenants who live in the house, both woman, who were respectful and nice, and super quiet. I often thought I was there alone. You're free to use the rest of the house, including the kitchen that has everything you'll need.
The house is SO close to everything, including coffee shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. I stayed at Felipe's for ten days, and he made sure to check up on me often, making sure I had the best stay possible. Such a great value, highly recommended! Felipe, although he doesn't live at the house, is such a helpful guy. He even left chocolate for me in my room! You're looking at $10 a night, US dollars. PS- Felipe speaks great English!
3. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Bamboo Birds-Nest Rice Field View 4
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9305759
The dirt path is difficult to find from the main road, but just call the host, Wayan, and he will send people to fetch you and carry your bags. The great thing about this place, is it's far off from the road- down a path- in the middle of beautiful rice fields. Complimentary breakfast was served every morning; tea, drinking water, and coffee were provided, and the common area is huge and gorgeous!
To be located in such a remote place, there is great Wi Fi, and great company. If you're planning to book this, please be adventurous! You'll be using the traditional balinese shower outside, the traditional balinese toilet outside, and you'll be climbing high into a bamboo nest to sleep- with no door and open air walls, only covered by a mosquito net.
I, however, loved it!! But, I could see that it would be very uncomfortable for some. There was "something" in my room one night rattling in my bags.. I scared it away, but didn't get to see what it was. Nature lovers only apply, for sure. Your cost, $15 US dollars per night.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Cozy Living-Room in the City Centre!
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13685904
This beautiful and sunny apartment in Edinburgh, Scotland is positioned above a Starbucks on Nicolson Street. The hosts, Frank and Helen, were awesome. They were accommodating, extremely friendly people with whom I chatted it up with upon my arrival. They offered all kinds of advice about the city and the room was clean and charming. They're artists, and a lot of there work is on display, as well as, their art desk which you're free to use!
I didn't see them much while I was there, but would have loved to spend more time with them. The room, although technically their living room, is secluded with a door for privacy and they're respectful of that and your space. It's also super close to everything, you can walk everywhere, really. Their kitchen is available for use, and the bathroom is super nice! This beautiful space will set you back a whopping $26 US dollars per night.
5. Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Cute House with Garden in Seminyak / Room with FAN
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5909788
Ok, so I fell in love with Bali. I spent a month traveling the island and staying in multiple different places. I couldn't have been any more satisfied with my stay at the Cutehouse.
It's exactly that, a very cute house, that is right in the middle of Seminyak groove, but tucked away enough to limit the noise and activity at night or while relaxing during the day. The hosts, Sergejca and Lukec, went out of their way to make me feel at home, and I'm happy to now call them friends! Honestly, we chatted for hours over drinks, and I felt like I was among family.
From the moment I arrived, I felt a warm welcome, and felt like I belonged! The room and house were very clean, very accommodating, and I wish I could have stayed for weeks longer. The house is open, and allows so much sunshine and fresh air to filter in. Fresh air and Sunshine = $14 US dollars per night.
So, now that you know of some great places around the globe for pretty cheap... GO EXPLORE!
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