Airbnb: What is it? Rethink the Traditional Hotel

There are a handful of companies out there now that are disrupting traditional business models by using their own unique technologies. Airbnb is certainly one of these companies as they are currently changing the way folks look at their travel plans.

Airbnb and its technology connects property owners with folks in search of lodging. Essentially, Airbnb is removing both the hotel and the travel agent from the equation of finding quality lodgings across the world, while directly connecting owners and renters.

Airbnb users feel a sense of community with the other users, and rely on ratings and reviews when making their decisions.

Airbnb is also known for its slick technology focused on providing great photos of the property, and making it as easy as possible for travelers to explore lodging options across the world from their smartphone!

Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Airbnb app or website.
2. Enter your filters for the search: select your location, dates of travel, how many bedrooms, and if you want a pool, or washer and dryer.
3. Review your lodging options! They range from a shared room, a private room with a live-in host, or the whole home. Use the filters to narrow down the options.
4. Use the map to help you see where the rooms/homes exist in relation to your activities.
5. Read the reviews—it’s up to you to find an owner you’re comfortable either staying with, or interacting with.
6. Look up other opportunities: Airbnb also offers experiences, such as hikes, yoga, and concerts, available near the area you’re searching.

What you need to know:

• You’ll be interacting with an individual, not a corporation or a person working the “front desk.”
• Make sure you are comfortable communicating with the host via email and texting.
• Read the reviews about the property owner to decide if you are compatible with their style and the property.
• You will be responsible for making your own bed, washing your own towels, and cleaning the kitchen during your stay.
• Each property has “house rules” to follow, so be sure to review those first before you make your reservation.

Pros

• Might be a larger space than a room in a hotel.
• Likely cheaper per square foot.
• Access to a full kitchen, washer, and dryer are possible.
• More like living as a local.
• Experiences with a live-in host will be more personal than employees at a hotel.

Cons

• It may take a bit more time to book an Airbnb rental due to the back-and-forth communication between you and the owner.
• You’re doing your own cooking and cleaning.
• You don’t have the built in accountability of the host that you would expect with a traditional hotel or hospitality chain.