There’s always a place for you…
Accommodation is probably the single biggest worry for all travellers when they set out on a journey into the unknown. It’s also the biggest cost for those not taking a plane across the world. Where you stay will largely influence how you feel about your holiday. A bad night’s sleep will result in a disappointing subsequent day. Hopefully, you’re reading this article before you’ve booked your hotel rooms and it’s not too late. I’ll go over the best accommodation resources on the web suited for all budgets and styles. By Sohaib S.
Hotels – For the high-maintenance
Let’s start with the most popular first: hotels. Many people who plan on going on holidays prefer a hotel to skip any difficulties they may face. Hotels are the safest option for the most part; they have all the facilities you could possibly need. My top pick is HotelClub who have an endless list of ideal hotels all over the world. The good thing about this resource is their iPhone app. Load up your smartphone and download their hotel booking app to get access to advance filtering options suited to your every need. Travelling with a pet? Want a swimming pool? Need an airport shuttle? Whatever the case is, HotelClub will have you sorted.
The website also has a member’s reward scheme. The more you book with them, the cheaper your next reservation will be.
Vacation Rentals – For the elegant wanderers
PerfectPlaces has never failed me with vacation rentals. They have over 60,000 properties available spread throughout 79 countries all over the globe. They deal with homes, villas, condominiums, cabins, B&B’s, and the list goes on. PerfectPlaces is certainly the resource to go to if you’re looking for something alternative.
The good thing about this website is that they connect you directly to the property owners if you have any questions. Their service is good so you won’t need to wait weeks before you can get in touch with the people who manage your holiday’s accommodation. It’s a ‘perfect’ alternative for travellers who are looking for something other than a typical hotel. Their resorts have space and value that hotels often seem to lack.
Camping – For the outdoor lovers
Camping is always an exciting and fun alternative to hotels and resorts. And a much cheaper alternative, too. It’s affordable and perfect for those on a budget, especially students who plan on making the most out of their weekend breaks. Campinmygarden.com is a very neat little tool for those who have their own gear. You can book as well as advertise on their website. They have camp sites available in most of the major cities around the world. The campsite owners are clear and to-the-point about their individual rates and what facilities are available. It’s really cheap—where you would usually get a London hotel from HotelClub at no less than £40 a night, Campinmygarden.com has campsites as cheap as £5 a night.
It really offers a unique experience every single time, promising you an adventure like no other. If you’re the type who doesn’t like planning and enjoys surprises, then this resource is your little gem. Bookmark it, favourite it, share it, and most importantly, use it.
Couch Surfing – For the wild at heart
Obviously, Couchsurfing.org takes the spot for the best couchsurfing resource out there on the web this year. Believe it or not, the term couchsurfing actually pre-existed before the organisation itself. It refers to individuals or groups moving from one house to another while sleeping in any available space such as a couch or the floor. If you thought that camping was cheap, then couchsurfing must be next to nothing. Most of the time, no monetary exchange is taken place, but it’s always nice to bring along a little gift for your host.
The good part about Couchsurfing.org is that it’s more than just a place to sleep. Their mission is clear: to “create inspiring experiences”. There are over 5 million members from over 97,000 cities spread throughout the world. It connects travellers to the locals to share cultures, adventures, and hospitality. It’s a great resource with a great cause.
