If you’ve spent the time finding the cheapest airline tickets you can manage, then why are you considering throwing your money away at a hotel? If you’re going somewhere that is an incredible resort and that’s what you’re there for, fine…so be it. However, if you’re traveling somewhere to enjoy time with a loved one, see the local culture and experience everything you can, then don’t go throwing out hundreds of dollars on a place that you’ll only see at night.
Instead, rent a house.
I know, I know, you’re thinking that something like that would surely cost more than a hotel. I’ll be the first to admit that I was surprised as well. Not long ago I took a trip out to wine country in Sonoma, CA. For a week in that beautiful landscape a hotel would have cost me almost $1,000 USD. The beautiful little cottage that we rented? Half that. Half!
So, beyond that obvious price difference what are some of the other advantages?
No Maid Service
Since when is this a good thing? Easy, when you’re looking to save some money on a luxurious vacation. No maid, means no overhead, which is one of the reasons that you get to keep the price down. Not to mention that you’ll never have to worry about housekeeping banging on your door at 8am because you forgot to hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign outside.
Table for Two
Say that you and your special someone are on vacation and staying at a hotel. Where are you eating that day? Breakfast, lunch and dinner are going to be out at a restaurant. Now, say that you’re in a house? Things change a little bit. Personally, one of my favorite things to do in a new place is hit up the local markets and see what I can find. Buy enough stuff and you’re going to be well stocked for the occasional romantic meal at home. Yes, you’ll still go out from time to time, you’re on vacation after all. However, you can spend some quality time in the kitchen as well.
Live Like a Local
This is perhaps my favorite reason for going with a house instead of a hotel. You have the opportunity to see life like a local would. Morning strolls, exploring shops and soaking it all in. More often than not, a hotel is located in a rather touristy region, while a house or cottage is a bit further removed from the reminders that you’re living out of a suitcase and not a home.
These are just some things to think about before you confine yourself to the same generic box-with-a-bed that you’ll find in a hotel. Before you set out on your next trip, take a look at house rental options and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Images by ParisSharing
