Thoughtfulness When Staying at an Airbnb
Anyone familiar with me knows my love of travelling and appreciation of comfortable hotels. A few years ago, as I surfed the internet for hotels in Florida, I got recommendations for Airbnb. So, I looked into them and read as many reviews as possible. I was intrigued and took the chance and reserved a house that promised ocean views and easy access to the beach. I told myself that if the living quarters didn't live up to the promise, I would swallow the cost and book myself into a hotel.
I am happy to report that I did not need to come up with a contingency plan at all. I was pleasantly surprised when I showed up at what would be my home for ten days. The home was beautiful, well-kept and clean. The owner was true to their word about the ocean views and beach access. They had purchased this fantastic beach-front home to enjoy for only a few months a year and decided to share their experience with others travelling to the area the other times of the year.
Since I'm more familiar with hotels, I honestly did not know what to expect. I had become accustomed to a hotel's expectations of me as a guest and had to look at this new arrangement differently.
Obviously, there would be no housekeeper knocking on my door every morning to freshen up my living quarters, which I didn't mind. I appreciated the space and having appliances to make my meals when I fancied staying. Having a washer and dryer in the home was also a big bonus.
All the homeowner expected of me was to leave their home the way I had found it, which was a no-brainer for me.
Here are a few tips that I picked up from my Airbnb experience:
Pay attention to the check-in and check-out times, and respect them. If you're running late when checking in or out, communicate this with your host as soon as possible.
Read the contract carefully before signing and ensure you're on the same page with the host. Look out for any hidden fees, and don't be afraid to ask questions if you need clarification.
If you are a pet owner, don't drag your pet along with you if the host has specific instructions stating "no pets" in their home. This is an infringement you might pay handsomely for. Additionally, your hosts may have allergies that you do not want to trigger with your actions.
You have been entrusted with someone's investment; respect it and don't trash the place or break anything. Sometimes accidents happen, and we end up breaking a plate or glass, report this to the host.
If your trip involves time spent at the beach, make a concerted effort not to bring any sand into your temporary home.
Clean up after yourself before you leave and throw out your garbage. Leaving the home with the least possible signs of your adventure is a thoughtful gesture that hosts appreciate.
When it's time to leave, turn off the lights, all water taps and the stove.
Make sure all windows are securely closed.
If you have a key, remember to leave it where directed. Taking off with the host's key is more than frowned upon.
Finally, leave a review if you can.
Airbnb offers a unique experience, different from hotels and bed and breakfasts. For those who love the feeling of home on their travels, they are the perfect fit. As we enjoy our holiday experience, let us be courteous and respectful in our treatment of these homes, enabling the same experience for anyone who may come after us.
