Airbnb launched in 2008 and has quickly spread worldwide. It’s an innovative concept that allows people to make use of any additional space or property they have, whilst also giving travellers an affordable and unique accommodation option.
We tried it out for the first time in Morpeth, just outside of Newcastle. Mr M, the two younglings and I were visiting family and a good friend of mine, and staying over made it much more manageable. I looked at hotel rooms, but the only affordable availability was right in the city centre, which wasn’t great for us. On top of that, hotel rooms can be a squash when you have an energetic toddler and a five year old in tow…
My friends in Bristol have just started to rent out their property on Airbnb; it’s a stunning house that they’ve worked very hard on. It sleeps up to eight people, and you can rent it for just £125 per night – amazing!! Have a look:
Our host was fantastic. He responded to our messages quickly, and made the whole process very easy.
The house itself is amazing too. It’s exceptionally clean, and actually feels much cosier than it looks on the Airbnb pictures. The place has a touch of luxury about it, but still manages to feel homely and comforting. There were lovely touches to the house too; the bath was stunning, there were interesting decorations around, and a charming grandfather clock chiming out each hour.
It was great for the kids to be able to run about the house, play the piano(!) and for us to easily cook them dinner and make breakfast. It just felt so much easier than staying in a hotel (especially as we could stay up and enjoy our Saturday night after the tots had gone to bed).
The great thing about Airbnb is that you can look for whatever you need. This house was perfect for us, and in just the right location, but you can look for rooms, apartments, villas or even castles depending on what you’re after. Also, it’s WORLDWIDE!
Have a look at this place – it can sleep up to 21 people, which would cost just £71 each a night:
I love the flexibility of Airbnb, and the fact that many hosts allow you to book a one night stay. It doesn’t cost the earth either. We spent the same as we would have on a hotel, and had a much, MUCH, better experience. I’ll definitely look at Airbnb first the next time we’re going away.