Gone are the days that you needed a hotel booking for your trip. Nowadays, there many different options for your travel accommodation. From hostels to working holiday. As each one has their own features, we bring you some tips, so you can get the best from the option that you prefer.
Hostel
Take your time to select the hostel, I recommend to do it through a recognized websites such as Booking, Agoda, Hostel booking, Hostelworld. It is important you know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re not. Some hostels offer luxurious amenities like blackout drapes or air conditioning, but if they don’t show it on their website, don’t expect it. Select the room, normally these have from 2 to 20 beds, and many hostels have specials room for girls. If the hostel has two-floor beds it is better to pick up the bottom bunk. Arrive early to the hostel, so if the place is not satisfying your expectations you will have time to go to a backup hostel. It’s better to go shower ready (small towel, soap, shampoo, and flip-flops). Finally, watch your valuables, if the hostel offers a locker or a safe, use it. If not, keep them on you at all times, either in a soft, flat bag around your neck or under your pillow while you sleep.
Airbnb
It is important to read well the information provided for the potential hosts, look at their profiles and reviews, verify phone numbers, social networks, and references. Before booking them you can message and confirm details such as profile, amenities, house and neighborhood rules. Make sure you understand the host's cancellation policy before submitting a reservation request. Airbnb doesn't offer travelers insurance for guests, so you could think about signing up for traveler's insurance. It bears mentioning that paying for a reservation outside their website is prohibited in order to ensure security. Finally, be a considerate guest.
Working holiday
A Working Holiday allows someone to visit a country for longer than the average tourist, with the opportunity to take on short-term jobs to save money or at least help fund the trip. You can take a look at the Workaway, HelpX or Hippohelp programmes to participate in a volunteering, working and cultural exchange; or search for other programmes on the internet. Before accept be clear about the type of work you will do, and benefits you will receive in exchange for it: food, accommodation, free time, visa, any type of transportation. Check out the location you will stay, the community nearby, and evaluate the easiness to visit other cities of the country. Some programmes promote paid work positions for hosts looking for extra help with their business.
Couchsurfing
There is a stigma about Couchsurfing because many people see it as an insecure option. Nonetheless, the numbers of guests and host continue growing year by year showing successful and great experiences for both hosts and guests. So, if you also want to share time with the locals and gain new friends in a safe ambiance, you should first inform yourself by looking for hosts who have complete profiles with a real name, clear photos, and detailed descriptions of themselves and, if applicable, their couches; read the hosts’ references, and women travelers may prefer to book with female hosts. Second, communicate with them through Couchsurfing messaging system, and ask questions about the place and people who live there. Third, make sure you have a plan to communicate with friends, family, and backup accommodation options once you arrive. Spend some time getting to know your host, and see if you feel comfortable with them, trust your instincts and do what you need to do to be comfortable.
Are you ready to choose your next accommodation?
Learn here how to get internet on your next trip