What to look for in an Airbnb that’ll make your trip smoother
As a digital nomad, I frequently bounce from place to place — hauling a 40lb luggage along with a large backpack.
Sometimes, horrible jetlag hits me.
Other times, my legs give out.
The last thing I want is a crappy hotel room with an uncomfortable bed and slow wifi. That’s why I always book an Airbnb, simply because it feels like home.
But the thing is, there’re THOUSANDS of Airbnb homes to choose from. Which one is the best?
Here’s what I narrowed down that will give you a smooth trip.
1. Fast wifi
Internet is everything.
You need Internet to work. To search for food, coffee shops and play. To check your social media. To watch videos. To FaceTime your loved ones.
Usually, I go for 30 mbps (or higher) which is enough for the average traveler, businessmen and digital nomads alike. Anything lower will make you wait a few seconds longer before you could see the page/image/video.
Some Airbnbs list the wifi speed within the description. But incase they don’t, you can always contact the Airbnb host and ask for the internet speed.
2. Close to main transportation
One of the most annoying thing about traveling is wasting time — especially when you need to walk 10 minutes to civilization from home where there’re taxis, trains and buses waiting to drop you off at your next destination, and vice versa.
Now 10 minutes might not sound long, but when you’re carrying a backpack, a sack of groceries or a fresh haul of new clothes & souvenirs in 90F+ heat (or -xF if you’re living in the cold), it becomes unbearable.
That’s why I always bookmark Airbnbs that are close to the bus stops, the trains or the main streets. Ideally 500 meters away (~5 minute walk). Because at the end of the day, this puts less stress on my feet, on my shoulders and makes my day easier.
3. A caring & attentive host
This is for people who:
1. Never tried Airbnb.
2. Are visiting the country for the very 1st time.
If you know nothing, and I mean NOTHING about the city you’re living in, chances are you’re going to get lost, be unimpressed by the food, get scammed by dishonest taxi drivers — all these unforeseen disasters that will make you wish you never booked a trip.
That’s why you need somebody who knows the city like the back of their hand: Your Airbnb host.
How you distinguish a good Airbnb host, specifically one who responds to your questions quickly and warmly, is through their listing’s description.
If they mention how far the train is from the Airbnb, what extra amenities you get, or they list a bunch of places you should check out, you know they’re going the extra mile to be accommodate your every need.
That’s about it!
If you have any questions, just shoot me an email at misstiffanysun@gmail.com.
I live to travel and want you to experience that too. :)
