Airbnb

For travellers weighing a hotel against alternative accommodation, Airbnb offers private rooms, apartments, houses and unusual stays booked directly with individual hosts or professional property managers. Its main advantages over hotels are space, kitchens and the chance to stay in residential neighbourhoods, which can suit families, groups and longer stays. Airbnb also lists some boutique hotels and serviced apartments. Guest protection is provided through AirCover for guests, which addresses issues such as significant listing inaccuracies or check-in problems, subject to its terms. Unlike hotels, cleaning fees, house rules, check-in methods and cancellation policies vary by listing, and there is usually no front desk. Read recent reviews, confirm the total price including fees, and check the host's cancellation policy and location details before booking.