We've stayed in apartments in Rome, Malaga, Malta and Paris. It's nice because you have the freedom (as you mentioned) to come and go as you want to, and you can save money by not going to a restaurant every evening but cooking youself! As lame as it may sound, I think it's a great experience to go to a supermarket or a bakery in foreign countries.
+Wolters World they get to see you, and some act like they never saw a brown person, especially the children. Korean Air was a racist nightmare from Chicago to Bali and return.
One more thing I LOVE about Airbnb is sometimes your hosts become friends. We made friends with a gorgeous family in the north of Wales, and have kept in touch now for almost five years. They were great company, and they also steered us toward amazing things to do that we could've never found on the internet.
I used Airbnb last trip to Europe and I'll never go back! Not only do you have the freedom, the local cultural experience and (usually) all the facilities, sometimes you find a place that is cheaper than a hotel but with WAY better views, or with a really cool historical factor! My favourite 2 stays were Paris and Florence, in Paris we raised our budget a little and found a rooftop terrace apartment right in Le Marais for a fraction of the price of a hotel room with a balcony! And in Florence we stayed in an apartment NEXT to the Medici Chapel! I was so amazed, we opened our window every morning and it was RIGHT there next to us. And these places were not at all expensive. Our only downsides were as you mentioned - organising the key pickup can be a nightmare when you've just got off a train, have to find wifi and check google maps and catch a bus and get there on time etc, and there can occasionally be bad listings. Where we stayed in Prague was horrible, we waited outside in the snow at -9 (we're from Australia, we had never even seen snow and suddenly were in this situation) and when we got inside the shower leaked, the bed was just two singles pushed together, the kitchen had no cutlery?? and when we complained about these things the hosts reviewed us badly. But I'd always recommend Airbnb to anyone travelling.
Apartments are really the best way to go. They are usually cheaper than a hotel and you can make your own food instead of spending a fortune having to eat out for every meal. That part is a big thing for me because I have severe food allergies so I don't like to eat in restaurants. A trip to the emergency room because of anaphylaxis in a foreign country is not a fun time for anyone.
Agenda In Mind hi there! I know this comment was 3 years ago but how did you get on in Italy? I’m gluten, grains and dairy free and am going interrailing this summer and Italy is in my list! What did you eat? 😂
Maybe a little tip for your wife. When I stay in an apartment, a few days before I fly, I buy some cheap cloths and cut them up into squares. Then put dish soap (washing up liquid) on to them and let them dry out. Then pack them in a baggie. So it´s less weight, no liquid, and when I wash up I use those. I normally take a few bin bags, and throw out my rubbish in town, to stop the apartment getting stinky. :)
Good points. We've stayed in airbnbs in Paris (got this through an agency and it was great), London, Amsterdam and New Orleans and have enjoyed the freedoms you mentioned. One of the best is that you don't have to eat all your meals out. We would eat breakfast in, leave for the day and eat lunch out and stop at the markets on the way home and get dinner food.
We have used airBnB in the USA, France, England, New Zealand and Australia. All have been from good to excellent. I have to agree with what Mark and many others have said. What has been forgotten are some of the things that are available as a renter. As an example, we went to three islands in Hawaii for four weeks, every single rental had beach chairs, coolers for food, and ice packs, two even had swimming fins and masks. One rental had fresh fruit that was picked from a neighbor's trees (had to look on the internet how to eat them since I had never seen them before). The one with fresh fruit was a cliff house that overlooked the locals surfing beach and we saw sea turtles every day. The rentals had literature about places to see and restaurants to visit. Many that were used by locals and not in commercial literature. All of the rentals were more affordable than a hotel when you include the extras.
Adding to the joys of buying food at supermarkets in one's destination city: purchasing food for brekkie, lunch and/or supper at street markets. Yeah, baby! As with the supermarkets, if you as a tourist or traveler visit and actually buy at the street markets, you will be living -- albeit only for a few days to a month -- like the local citizens of that town/city. Big ups to you, Mr. Wolters! LOVE all your vids!!!
Did I miss it? AirBNB is A LOT less expensive than hotels. They also are great for bigger groups such as family get togethers I used Air BNB when my son got married in San Francisco (read $$$). I gathered my sister and brother in law from Mexico, my wheelchair using 90 yr. old mom from Southern California, my son, our friend, and myself stayed together (:)) for 5 days. It was better socially, better for resting with a disabled person, and much cheaper than what? Three hotel rooms for 6 adults. .
I think if you have kids apartments are the way to go. When it was just myself or my hubby and I a hotel was fine. We went to Rome, London, and Paris in December and had apartments and it was wonderful. Our daughter was 14 months and it was great to have a home base and more room for her to play. We also got lucky in Rome and London and were close to parks and had great owners at all 3 places. With kids, or even extended family, we will always go with an apartment. Thanks for another great vlog :)
I have used AirBnB twice at least, once in Vancouver, BC and a second time in Glasgow, Scotland, both times as a guest in someone's private residence. The first time, which was in Vancouver, was awesome and I had a very gracious host named Anne (or was it Anna, I don't remember). She didn't necessarily go out of her way to pick up from the airport or anything, but it wasn't really necessary since her place was easy to get to by train from the airport. She gave me an easy to follow map (and I'm really bad at reading maps, I relay on my smartphone GPS most of the time), explained all the different places and sights to go see, where I can go to eat for a really good value (one of them being a bar where all the food menu items was $5.00 or less), the transit system, etc. She shared dinner and wine with me, and I was traveling there around my birthday (which I didn't tell her it was my birthday week until my last day with her), she made it a point to go out and buy me a small treat with a candle, sung happy birthday to me and just made me feel special (which my own family barely even does for me anymore!). If you are planning to visit Vancouver sometime soon and you decide to use AirBnB as opposed to a hotel or hostel, I definitely recommend trying to find her on there. My second stay there in Glasgow was okay. The main host was again a woman whom I believe was of East Indian descent... She was very nice, but absent during my stay because she was leaving for a holiday on the day that I arrived. Her husband was there, also nice but indifferent and didn't really get engage with me that much. The room they put me in was small, almost like a storage room, but it was clean and the bed was decent. The apartment she lived in was one of those very old, Glasgow buildings... she lived on the third floor if I remember correctly, and there's no elevator, so it was kind of annoying and exhausting having to climb up and down the stairs especially while carrying luggage. But again, I was smart enough to do my research and pick a place that was within walking distance to the main parts of the city and a transit system, and the taxi ride from the Central train station to her place wasn't expensive at all, about a £7-8 ride. So far, I have no yet done the private home/apartment rentals, but even staying as a guest in someone's home was a little nicer than a hotel or hostel because you still have that freedom to an extent and it gives you a chance to see up close and personal what the day to day lives are like for the locals and it gives you a sort of reminder that while this may be like a theme park to most tourists, this is a real city where the locals really do live and work, and with that comes some hard truths that may not be all kittens and puppy dogs, so you respect it more.
Solid video as usual Wolter. I love Airbnb and have used them in over 10 countries. I've vlogged about them recently also, if you want to see my perspective.
great vlog - i used Airbnb once for 2 weeks apartament rental and loved it- so much cheaper compared to hotel and really let you mix with local community :-)
I love AirBNB! I look for a balcony with a view. (and a washer and elevator) (in that order) BUT . . . Just finding the apartment when you get to town can be difficult. Even with taxi drivers and written addresses. Then you get to learn how to work the gate key pad and elevator - and plumbing! Good videos, good advice and good luck, y'all!
So far had good experiences with airbnb in Paris, London, Bath (USA). But make sure the photos you're looking at are "airbnb certified" (as airbnb does this for free for the owners, I can't still figure why you wouldn't want them to take the pictures for you), read the reviews a few times (trying to read between the lines) and try to have a message exchange asking questions to the owner, and you'll be able to tell the ones that really care from the others. Don't stay in apartments that only have one or two reviews (I know, it's not easy on the ones that just started renting...) or ones where the owners leave their stuff on the closets.
Some people have a keybox with a lock. They give you the code for the lock once you've paid. It means you can get in whenever you want. In some remote parts where burglars are not an issue, some people also leave the key on the door, or under a plant. So far the worst I've had was a guy who told me to come back later coz the bed wasn't done yet. But appart from that I've never had any problem, in France or the US. I'm usually very careful about reviews and stuff.
I stayed at an AirBnB in Madrid and Wolter is correct about it being a great alternative to having a hotel. Loved going to the supermarkets with the locals especially since I spoke the language. Do look out for those reviews ours had a bug problem. Overall a great trip though!
Another thing...if you have had a good experience PLEASE do an Air bnb review. People are very quick to write bad ones but please help your fellow travelers by doing a review.Another reminder to ask when you're poking around for somewhere to say, ask what floor and if there's a lift. We were on the 5th floor with no lift.
Julia M 😂. I’ve actually made a very similar post on his channel before, asking if he’s open to adopting an adult child. 😂. Those kids better realize how lucky they are!
My stepdad and I had excellent stays on Airbnb in Alberobello, Italy and it was very pleasant. In the greater Vatican part of Rome where we stayed on Airbnb was fantastic because there was a mix of Old and Hipster Rome in one. Absolutely would use Airbnb again.
I far prefer apartments to hotels if I am staying for more then a few days. It is the freedom that is mentioned in the video that appeals to me. You can get up when you want, sometimes I get up after lunch if I have been out late the night before, and I love that. If you want to spend a few hours in the apartment in the afternoon you can. I will only stay in a hotel if the stay is a couple of days, any more than that and I'll get an apartment. I've stayed in apartments in Europe and in South America. I've only had one problem once when the guy with the keys did not show up. I phoned him and he had forgotten, he came immediately, so it was not a big problem.
Very true about the pick up and drop off of the key. We rented an apartment in Paris. When we arrived, the proprietor's cell phone was not accepting calls from my cell phone!! I'm not sure if it was a phone service thing being in another country. But, there we were, my husband and two kids with our luggage sitting in an artsy cafe/bar wondering if we would get into the apartment or be stranded. Thankfully, I have a friend that lives in France, I texted him, then he called the proprietor. He arrived 10 minutes later with the key. We LOVED our studio apartment. It's true the kitchen is small, as well as the bathroom, (which thankfully had toilet paper) but I was in Paris!! How could I complain? We are renting another home in the South of France this Summer, and an apartment in Portugal. We love the privacy renting a home offers. It's your little place, no maids knocking on doors etc. Walter, you have a beautiful family and I love your channel.
Great video as usual. I sent it to one of my friends who rents his apartment, hopefully he'll get plenty tips on how to be a good host in Edinburgh xXx
Mark, what I like best about renting an apartment is having a washing machine.. This means you can go to Europe for 3-4 weeks carrying on a small bag and a brief case (gotta have my computer for work) thus no need to check bags. Sometimes the washing machines are a bit difficult to figure out but we have always managed. You can do your wash over night and not waste 3 hours hanging around in a public laundromat. I have rented apartments in Spain, Portugal, France and the UK. Some have been better than others but all have been better values than a hotel. We have used Airbnb and VRBO/Homeaway. Airbnb is a bit simpler than VRBO/Homeaway because the website handles all payment arrangements.
The appliances can often get very complicated, particularly the washing machine. Sometimes the washer/dryer is one unit and it takes like 3 hours to do a load. In Amsterdam it had an enormous number of functions and much was in Dutch. Also it seems like France and Italy have some sort of cultural thing about dryers. So many places just have a washer.
We stayed in Amsterdam with a washer/dryer combination and all of the settings were in Dutch. It was a lot of fun translating everything just to wash clothes, but very interesting.
I kind of got overwhelmed with it, so many settings on the one @ the vacation rental where I stayed. Actually had to empty out a water tank prior to using the dryer.
I recommend staying in private homes for all the reasons mentioned plus because of a personal experience we had in Rome. We rented a room in a home - with a shared bathroom down the hall - (this was before airbnb) and I got sick with the flu. The Italian husband and wife owners cared for me, fed my family in their own home, and gave so much loving help to my family! In contrast, on another trip to Rome, we stayed at a high end hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps and didn't enjoy that part of our vacation at all. The markets, family restaurants and friendly homes have added such happy memories to our family travels.
I have stayed in Flats/Apartments in the Ukraine the last 2 times and you are right the freedom and space verse the cost of hotel. I also cook and do the market thing and it is so much fun seeing what the average Ukrainian life it somewhat like. The being out with everybody free styling not on some big tour in small hotel.
I had one stay in an AirB&B in New Zealand. We lived there for 4 Weeeks in a really Nice House with a Young couple. We Almost felt like it was our own. I Went to work in the afternoon and returned back at night, my boyfriend waiting for me with a freshly cooked meal. We almost never met the hosts, cause they were busy all the time. Only bad thing was the fact that their relationship seemed to have some issues, so we sometimes woke up at 3pm, hearing them fighting and crushing plates. In this moment we felt like Little children in our bedroom.
One thing I’ve noticed with renting an apartment/Airbnb is that the choice of location within a city is so much greater. A lot of times hotels will be clustered together and maybe not in a convenient location. I traveled in Europe with my parents earlier this year and we used Airbnb because we all preferred to have our own bed and finding a hotel with 3 beds is damn near impossible.
I've stayed in a friend's timeshare in New Orleans twice in about 30 years. Still, whenever I see something happening in New Orleans in the news, I think, "Wow, that's right near our house!" My family rents the same beach houses during the same summer week for years at a time. It is great to have a familiar home base in a place that you love. A coworker making a lower middle class salary in the US would use his employee flight benefits to fly his family home to Cote d'Ivoire, rent a house that came with servants and live with his family like a bigwig for a couple of weeks out of the year. On the other hand, I also love staying in hotels, especially when I have to work and having the lovely staff clean up the bathroom and make the beds. It makes me feel like a wealthier person than I am.
Very interesting video Mark. I do enjoy going to local markets in every city I visit because yes, as you say it is a fantastic way to experience the "real life" and local culture but the last thing I'm doing on holiday is cook. Apartments for families but full service hotels for me!
Apartments are almost always cheaper - a three bedroom, two bathroom apartment will nearly always cost less than three hotel rooms. It is usually easy to find an apartment or house with a washer and dryer, which is obviously nice, but the hidden upside is that you can start a load of laundry and go. You don't have to sit around in the laundromat waiting for the washer and then the dryer to finish, which is a huge waste of your time. So pop in a load before you leave for the day, and when you come back, put the laundry in the dryer or on the rack. Apartments and houses may have private swimming pools and garages which surprisingly may not drive up the cost, depending on where you stay.
Ideally, I want a flat. I splurge for the most expensive place I can afford. This is because I spend the morning doing my own thing. Then, I'm out at noon. I gotta be able to have my coffee and a simple breakfast...without foraging for it. And I just don't like all the stimulation hotels have. I spend so much time in my flat that I want it to be tastefully decorated with great light.
We ran out of toilet paper at one place, another had no sugar, or salt or pepper. I have flooded, I believe, three bathrooms in Italy, I don't think they quite understand sealing showers? All that being said, I love Airbnbs. I love the intimacy of it and having access to more commodities than just a hotel room. And yes, you are totally immersed.
Great video as always. We stayed at apartments in Rome & Paris last October. Booked through airbnb. Both were disasters. The apartment in Paris was being "slowly" renovated while we were there but wasn't told anything when we booked. The apartment in Rome was better but nothing like the pics in the ad. But I'm not giving up. I'm traveling to Berlin and Amsterdam and staying in airbnb apartments. I hope I have better luck this time.
it really is hit and miss with airbnb but it has gotten a little bit better but still need to search up more information. and a lot has to deal with where you are going.
Hi Mark, great video, keep them coming, they are appreciated. We nearly always stay in apartments because a lot of Europe can be challenging for vegetarians. Besides, you don't always want to get ready and go out to eat every evening; it can also get pretty expensive.
Have an rented apartment is the best. It imply to have a kitchen, that bring the satisfaction of live like a local, visit local markets, prepare your own meal with local ingredients, have your meals base on your taste, schedule, family needs and amounts (have all meals on the street for more than few days could take a toll on your stomach tolerance) and also improve your travel budget specially if you are traveling with family or kids. I'm a frequent user of this kind of services if the visit to the place is longer than 2 nights, otherwise a Hotel with fridge will be more comfortable.
We are most time in my parents house on the island KRK Croatia! My parents offers for rent also 2 apartments on the ground floor. The second is their private apartment. And most tourists are families. But like Wolter said... What's inside is different and depends what owners offering. My mom always take care that her guests don't need to bring anything with them. You have a fully kitchen witch microwave, coffee mashine, toaster... Toilet paper for the first 2 days, kitchen soaps... Games for kids, books (in German), German TV and some EU information channels... Also for the smallest kids toys for the beach and for the terrace... So it really depends on the owners. Tip... Ask all important questions before what's in the apartment. Friends of me had to take many stuff with them in Italy. For badroom and bathroom.
I've been looking at AirBnbs for awhile and honestly I was worried it was going to be more expensive than a hotel, but most people I've spoken with have actually told me it's cheaper, less stressful and allows you to actually absorb the culture. I definitely will be looking at AirBnbs and home-stays with families when I take my trip to Europe someday. (Especially since I've heard a lot of hotels charge extortionate prices over crazy things and sometimes don't even properly clean the rooms). My own little cottage in England? My own flat in Paris? A little house in Italy or a cool pod in Tokyo? Sign me up!
You could probably add under the "love" section that if you find a good apartment rental it can save you a lot of money versus staying in a hotel, particularly in a place like Paris.
oh yeah, tons of money saved on food and just relaxing at the apartment instead of going to some restaurant spending tons of money just to relax there.
Loved the Airbnb. Better deal (two thirds the cost) roomier and yes experience the culture. You can cook and do laundry. The only drawback is arranging time to get the key if you don't have wifi to use your phone.
Stayed for the first time last year in Spain in an air B and B had the whole house it was great, I loved going to the local super markets buying local food, seeing and trying different foods IV never had before and cooking them, and not having to eat out 3 meals a day is a plus.
This video was awesome for me because I'm staying at an Airbnb rental for the first time and the comparison with a hotel is inevitable. With all the pros and cons weighted I love the Airbnb but not for all trips. Some trips, esp business require a more structured stay. If you have some flexibility Airbnb is really great!
Great video. I'm considering a lot of things before renting a place exclusively for BnB. Good to know, what information is valuable (stores and opening times, events, nearby facilities of interesting kinds) and which cooking facilities are needed. I also took great note on the TP and trash situation. It would be good to make a map. Any suggestions are welcome.
You should see the kitchens in Japan, I used to live there and my flat kitchen was just one hob right beside the door to go out.. don't think I could have called it an actual kitchen. In Barcelona we got a really big apartment to stay in, it was a lucky find
I've tried AirBnb like 3 or 4 times. Not much yet. But probably thanks to an intensive search I did always find a good one. It wasn't always the whole apartment... sometimes only one room in a apartmet with the owner. But I can not complain. But I have to admit that I was searching hard... and there were some of the offers that I would never accept. So you have to be careful.
I know exactly what you mean, have stayed in apartments in Spain the last 3 years for our main holiday and going back to Rome next week and have booked an apartment in the city for the first time fingers crossed x
I agree with #1, we did an AirBnB in Panama City Beach, Florida a few years ago, it had several awesome reviews, but the bed was TERRIBLE. The mattress was completely sunk in and pretty much impossible to sleep on or even lay on for a few minutes.
Check your Internet capabilities. In rural Great Britain, for example, we stayed at a couple of accomodations where the total data allowance was severely limited (like 1GB), so our kids consumed it all in the first few hours with videos without realizing it. We had no more Internet for the rest of our stay.
If I'm staying more than a few days, I always get an AirBnB! You save tons of money, it's super comfortable! The fact that you're not shelling out 20 euros for coffee and a roll, per person, is usually the main thing. More room, full kitchen and dinning rooms are excellent, even if just a nook. No hotel staff going through your stuff is a plus too. I would say the worst part has to be the hand off of the keys. Most flights coming in from the US come in very early. I arrived in Munich at 7am, and had to wait outside until 1pm for the guy to show up "because that was their policy". The other is misleading or incomplete info on the site. We are used to having elevators and this is not the norm in Europe. Having to climb 5 floors of very narrow and steep stairs, with luggage is not fun!
Meidi Perwadi same here for late August looking for an apartment in Glasgow, Paris and Barcelona hopefully I can read the good reviews to some good places.
Meidi Perwadi look for good reviews and check the owner. Drop them an email and see how they react. My wife and I were using airbnb for our new year travel two weeks ago to Paris, Hamburg and Amsterdam and we had a wonderful time every time.
Did you find the Glasgow one? We had a great one down on Argyll road, very close to Kelvingrove. 92 Old Dumbarton road or something like that. We were a party of four. Only warning is that it's about 5 floors up with no lift.
I didn't realize the first time I booked one that you have to specify how much interaction you want with the owner. I ended up renting one while the woman who owns the place was still there most of the time when I visited Chicago. There was part of me that was just never okay with that because for what I paid I wanted full privacy.
I don’t like to rent a room in the host’s house for the same reason. I feel like I have to be social. If the host is social it is even worse. Apt on its own is ok but it is more expensive to rent.
The kitchen hate doesn't really make sense to me. Most hotels don't have any kitchen or kitchenette anyway, so you wouldn't be able to cook anything in your hotel room. Many Airbnbs have awesome kitchens supplied with pots and pans and other things you need to cook.
And 6th thing you're not gonna like about AirBnB is "don't book too late". Be sure to book in advance for the dates you've chosen since they might be already overbooked on that certain app you'd like to live in for a week or two.
My biggest suggestion for using Airbnb would be always go with the reviews. And at all times choose a Superhost or Airbnb certified. You don't want to be in a foreign country where you don't know the language especially if you are with family with a dodgy host. Pay that bit extra and save money on other things.
Apts are great for more than 3-4 days, otherwise I like the amenities of hotels and service, also airb&b is getting close to hotel prices in popular places. Apt owners can be quite arrogant/protective and the properties are not always like the photos., If you have specific requirements like reduced mobility, they will never tell you about all the surprise steps or difficult access or noisy neighbors. Also you have to buy groceries and no easy breakfast. But can be more confortable than hotel room if you are happy with the place, as a solo traveller I am happy with hotels for now...
Not sure if you've done an update to this since it says you published this video about 3 years ago, but I totally get what you mean about times and stuff. The annoying thing I get at times is hosts will put things like check in at such and such time so I book it, then get a message from them in response to my telling them what time I'll be there saying that actually they won't be there until a much different time.
We book most of our apartments through Booking.com and we have never gone wrong. I like the fact you feel as though your at home but on holiday at the same time
I've never done Airbnb but I would think I wouldn't like something on a vacation to "feel like home" unless of course I am staying with relatives. I mean, if I want to feel like I'm at home then I'd stay at home.
Can someone please recommend a place where I can rent an apartment in Rome, my husband and I are going there for a week and we would love to stay in an apartment.
Hi Wolter. I am leaving for Italy (Milan,Venice,Florence,Assisi,Rome,Pompeii) with middle school in 2 weeks I am BEYOND EXITED! Do you have any tips for me to keep my stuff safe and tips on how to get the most out of my trip? I am traveling alone (without my parents) but with a tour group of about 40 kids&adults. I've watched a lot of your videos, and a lot of them say things about how tour groups are very annoying, but this is the only way I can travel to Italy, by myself, at my age.
I almost forgot an important question. I am going in early march to Italy, so should I pack long sleeve shirts and pants or just casual clothes like t-shirts and shorts. I am from Texas so a anything below 50 is cold to us :)
Hey Mark, alright? Im back watching your videos. I also love apartments especially if they are free :D (i.e. couchsurfing). I agree with all u said. Btw do u have any Colombia videos??
You can use a hotel as a hub for your travels too? I don't see how that would be an advantage over hotels. I personanlly would add the price instead. B&b's are usually cheaper.
I LOVE Airbnb! I used Airbnb hosts for Mulhouse, Beauvais, Venice and Rome and they were all excellent because I could read credible reviews on them beforehand. (no i wasn't paid to say this, though I should be lol)
Hey Mark I’m going to Italy in April 2023, my first in Italy so I’m a bit nervous and excited. Im celebrating being cancer free and I’m traveling with my small chihuahua. What is the best place to stay, Airbnb or apartment? Plus any tips is welcome! Thank you!
Going to a supermarket in a new country is one of my "must do" things.
I actually enjoy that part of teavel alot even if it sometimes makes me look weird if I'm not familiar with how things work 😅
it is my favourite thing to do too
We've stayed in apartments in Rome, Malaga, Malta and Paris. It's nice because you have the freedom (as you mentioned) to come and go as you want to, and you can save money by not going to a restaurant every evening but cooking youself! As lame as it may sound, I think it's a great experience to go to a supermarket or a bakery in foreign countries.
the supermarket thing is so true and I really loved it. you get to see the real people
Real truth. I love to cook. Garbage in Bali was down in the garage. I purchased my own things, and gave it to the people after leaving in two months.
+Wolters World they get to see you, and some act like they never saw a brown person, especially the children. Korean Air was a racist nightmare from Chicago to Bali and return.
Oh Koreans don't like anybody,not even each other.
It does not sound lame at all. Going to the local supermarket and bakery is THE THING to do.
I know this is two years old and Airbnb have improved so much. Even as a solo traveller I will never again use a hotel.
Since I was little I traveled so much with my parents! It's the best gift they could do to me. I am sure ur kids will be forever thankfull
I love the fact yout wife and kids were so involved in this video
Adam Hovey especially his wife! 💖 😆
One more thing I LOVE about Airbnb is sometimes your hosts become friends. We made friends with a gorgeous family in the north of Wales, and have kept in touch now for almost five years. They were great company, and they also steered us toward amazing things to do that we could've never found on the internet.
I have met a family in Caen, France with the same result. We have been good friends for the last four years. I stay there everytime I go Normandie.
I used Airbnb last trip to Europe and I'll never go back! Not only do you have the freedom, the local cultural experience and (usually) all the facilities, sometimes you find a place that is cheaper than a hotel but with WAY better views, or with a really cool historical factor! My favourite 2 stays were Paris and Florence, in Paris we raised our budget a little and found a rooftop terrace apartment right in Le Marais for a fraction of the price of a hotel room with a balcony! And in Florence we stayed in an apartment NEXT to the Medici Chapel! I was so amazed, we opened our window every morning and it was RIGHT there next to us. And these places were not at all expensive. Our only downsides were as you mentioned - organising the key pickup can be a nightmare when you've just got off a train, have to find wifi and check google maps and catch a bus and get there on time etc, and there can occasionally be bad listings. Where we stayed in Prague was horrible, we waited outside in the snow at -9 (we're from Australia, we had never even seen snow and suddenly were in this situation) and when we got inside the shower leaked, the bed was just two singles pushed together, the kitchen had no cutlery?? and when we complained about these things the hosts reviewed us badly. But I'd always recommend Airbnb to anyone travelling.
Apartments are really the best way to go. They are usually cheaper than a hotel and you can make your own food instead of spending a fortune having to eat out for every meal. That part is a big thing for me because I have severe food allergies so I don't like to eat in restaurants. A trip to the emergency room because of anaphylaxis in a foreign country is not a fun time for anyone.
Ashlie Neevel yeah, and if you have a family apartments are always the best way
+AgendaInMind I do. It eat pork.
AgendaInMind hi, avocado are quite expensive here in Italy, you're going to spend a fortune if you plan to eat avocados daily
Agenda In Mind hi there! I know this comment was 3 years ago but how did you get on in Italy? I’m gluten, grains and dairy free and am going interrailing this summer and Italy is in my list! What did you eat? 😂
Maybe a little tip for your wife. When I stay in an apartment, a few days before I fly, I buy some cheap cloths and cut them up into squares. Then put dish soap (washing up liquid) on to them and let them dry out. Then pack them in a baggie. So it´s less weight, no liquid, and when I wash up I use those. I normally take a few bin bags, and throw out my rubbish in town, to stop the apartment getting stinky. :)
smart tip Akubra! Thanks. Will defintly use that on the next apartment stay. I tend to take the extra hotel soaps and save them for trips like that ;)
Spot on with the comment. I agree. I think something else that is really stressful is that the owner can cancel as well.
Good points. We've stayed in airbnbs in Paris (got this through an agency and it was great), London, Amsterdam and New Orleans and have enjoyed the freedoms you mentioned. One of the best is that you don't have to eat all your meals out. We would eat breakfast in, leave for the day and eat lunch out and stop at the markets on the way home and get dinner food.
We have used airBnB in the USA, France, England, New Zealand and Australia. All have been from good to excellent. I have to agree with what Mark and many others have said.
What has been forgotten are some of the things that are available as a renter. As an example, we went to three islands in Hawaii for four weeks, every single rental had beach chairs, coolers for food, and ice packs, two even had swimming fins and masks. One rental had fresh fruit that was picked from a neighbor's trees (had to look on the internet how to eat them since I had never seen them before). The one with fresh fruit was a cliff house that overlooked the locals surfing beach and we saw sea turtles every day. The rentals had literature about places to see and restaurants to visit. Many that were used by locals and not in commercial literature.
All of the rentals were more affordable than a hotel when you include the extras.
Adding to the joys of buying food at supermarkets in one's destination city: purchasing food for brekkie, lunch and/or supper at street markets. Yeah, baby! As with the supermarkets, if you as a tourist or traveler visit and actually buy at the street markets, you will be living -- albeit only for a few days to a month -- like the local citizens of that town/city. Big ups to you, Mr. Wolters! LOVE all your vids!!!
One love about staying at apartments is you can find some located on the top floor, with a balcony - meaning great views of the area.
Did I miss it? AirBNB is A LOT less expensive than hotels. They also are great for bigger groups such as family get togethers I used Air BNB when my son got married in San Francisco (read $$$). I gathered my sister and brother in law from Mexico, my wheelchair using 90 yr. old mom from Southern California, my son, our friend, and myself stayed together (:)) for 5 days. It was better socially, better for resting with a disabled person, and much cheaper than what? Three hotel rooms for 6 adults.
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I think if you have kids apartments are the way to go. When it was just myself or my hubby and I a hotel was fine. We went to Rome, London, and Paris in December and had apartments and it was wonderful. Our daughter was 14 months and it was great to have a home base and more room for her to play. We also got lucky in Rome and London and were close to parks and had great owners at all 3 places. With kids, or even extended family, we will always go with an apartment. Thanks for another great vlog :)
I have used AirBnB twice at least, once in Vancouver, BC and a second time in Glasgow, Scotland, both times as a guest in someone's private residence. The first time, which was in Vancouver, was awesome and I had a very gracious host named Anne (or was it Anna, I don't remember). She didn't necessarily go out of her way to pick up from the airport or anything, but it wasn't really necessary since her place was easy to get to by train from the airport. She gave me an easy to follow map (and I'm really bad at reading maps, I relay on my smartphone GPS most of the time), explained all the different places and sights to go see, where I can go to eat for a really good value (one of them being a bar where all the food menu items was $5.00 or less), the transit system, etc. She shared dinner and wine with me, and I was traveling there around my birthday (which I didn't tell her it was my birthday week until my last day with her), she made it a point to go out and buy me a small treat with a candle, sung happy birthday to me and just made me feel special (which my own family barely even does for me anymore!). If you are planning to visit Vancouver sometime soon and you decide to use AirBnB as opposed to a hotel or hostel, I definitely recommend trying to find her on there.
My second stay there in Glasgow was okay. The main host was again a woman whom I believe was of East Indian descent... She was very nice, but absent during my stay because she was leaving for a holiday on the day that I arrived. Her husband was there, also nice but indifferent and didn't really get engage with me that much. The room they put me in was small, almost like a storage room, but it was clean and the bed was decent. The apartment she lived in was one of those very old, Glasgow buildings... she lived on the third floor if I remember correctly, and there's no elevator, so it was kind of annoying and exhausting having to climb up and down the stairs especially while carrying luggage. But again, I was smart enough to do my research and pick a place that was within walking distance to the main parts of the city and a transit system, and the taxi ride from the Central train station to her place wasn't expensive at all, about a £7-8 ride.
So far, I have no yet done the private home/apartment rentals, but even staying as a guest in someone's home was a little nicer than a hotel or hostel because you still have that freedom to an extent and it gives you a chance to see up close and personal what the day to day lives are like for the locals and it gives you a sort of reminder that while this may be like a theme park to most tourists, this is a real city where the locals really do live and work, and with that comes some hard truths that may not be all kittens and puppy dogs, so you respect it more.
E. Baysinger n
Ya depends on how busy they are on who can pick you up or drop you off.
Solid video as usual Wolter. I love Airbnb and have used them in over 10 countries. I've vlogged about them recently also, if you want to see my perspective.
Mark**😊
great vlog - i used Airbnb once for 2 weeks apartament rental and loved it- so much cheaper compared to hotel and really let you mix with local community :-)
I love AirBNB! I look for a balcony with a view. (and a washer and elevator) (in that order)
BUT . . . Just finding the apartment when you get to town can be difficult. Even with taxi drivers and written addresses. Then you get to learn how to work the gate key pad and elevator - and plumbing!
Good videos, good advice and good luck, y'all!
So far had good experiences with airbnb in Paris, London, Bath (USA). But make sure the photos you're looking at are "airbnb certified" (as airbnb does this for free for the owners, I can't still figure why you wouldn't want them to take the pictures for you), read the reviews a few times (trying to read between the lines) and try to have a message exchange asking questions to the owner, and you'll be able to tell the ones that really care from the others. Don't stay in apartments that only have one or two reviews (I know, it's not easy on the ones that just started renting...) or ones where the owners leave their stuff on the closets.
Some people have a keybox with a lock. They give you the code for the lock once you've paid. It means you can get in whenever you want. In some remote parts where burglars are not an issue, some people also leave the key on the door, or under a plant. So far the worst I've had was a guy who told me to come back later coz the bed wasn't done yet. But appart from that I've never had any problem, in France or the US. I'm usually very careful about reviews and stuff.
I stayed at an AirBnB in Madrid and Wolter is correct about it being a great alternative to having a hotel. Loved going to the supermarkets with the locals especially since I spoke the language. Do look out for those reviews ours had a bug problem. Overall a great trip though!
Another thing...if you have had a good experience PLEASE do an Air bnb review. People are very quick to write bad ones but please help your fellow travelers by doing a review.Another reminder to ask when you're poking around for somewhere to say, ask what floor and if there's a lift. We were on the 5th floor with no lift.
i wish i was your kid so i could travel more 😭😂
Me too😄
You could’ve wished to be his wife. No? Too creepy?
@@StamfordBridge haha, that never came into my mind🤣
Julia M 😂. I’ve actually made a very similar post on his channel before, asking if he’s open to adopting an adult child. 😂. Those kids better realize how lucky they are!
@@StamfordBridge yes I feel you! That would be a dream 😍🤣 or to be a someone’s very spoiled cat hahah!Let’s hope those children appreciate it 🤞🏼
My stepdad and I had excellent stays on Airbnb in Alberobello, Italy and it was very pleasant. In the greater Vatican part of Rome where we stayed on Airbnb was fantastic because there was a mix of Old and Hipster Rome in one. Absolutely would use Airbnb again.
I far prefer apartments to hotels if I am staying for more then a few days. It is the freedom that is mentioned in the video that appeals to me. You can get up when you want, sometimes I get up after lunch if I have been out late the night before, and I love that. If you want to spend a few hours in the apartment in the afternoon you can. I will only stay in a hotel if the stay is a couple of days, any more than that and I'll get an apartment.
I've stayed in apartments in Europe and in South America. I've only had one problem once when the guy with the keys did not show up. I phoned him and he had forgotten, he came immediately, so it was not a big problem.
Very true about the pick up and drop off of the key. We rented an apartment in Paris. When we arrived, the proprietor's cell phone was not accepting calls from my cell phone!! I'm not sure if it was a phone service thing being in another country. But, there we were, my husband and two kids with our luggage sitting in an artsy cafe/bar wondering if we would get into the apartment or be stranded. Thankfully, I have a friend that lives in France, I texted him, then he called the proprietor. He arrived 10 minutes later with the key. We LOVED our studio apartment. It's true the kitchen is small, as well as the bathroom, (which thankfully had toilet paper) but I was in Paris!! How could I complain? We are renting another home in the South of France this Summer, and an apartment in Portugal. We love the privacy renting a home offers. It's your little place, no maids knocking on doors etc. Walter, you have a beautiful family and I love your channel.
Dawn Caruso been there way too many times. and so true :) we were in paris so worse comes to worse... you are in paris :)
A great alternative to normal hotels! I may consider doing this on my trip to Italy next year.
Excellent video--very informative and entertaining. Thanks to yourwife and kids too, Mark.
Great video as usual. I sent it to one of my friends who rents his apartment, hopefully he'll get plenty tips on how to be a good host in Edinburgh xXx
Mark, what I like best about renting an apartment is having a washing machine.. This means you can go to Europe for 3-4 weeks carrying on a small bag and a brief case (gotta have my computer for work) thus no need to check bags. Sometimes the washing machines are a bit difficult to figure out but we have always managed. You can do your wash over night and not waste 3 hours hanging around in a public laundromat. I have rented apartments in Spain, Portugal, France and the UK. Some have been better than others but all have been better values than a hotel. We have used Airbnb and VRBO/Homeaway. Airbnb is a bit simpler than VRBO/Homeaway because the website handles all payment arrangements.
Brook Maese amen to the washing machine! so true :)
The appliances can often get very complicated, particularly the washing machine. Sometimes the washer/dryer is one unit and it takes like 3 hours to do a load. In Amsterdam it had an enormous number of functions and much was in Dutch. Also it seems like France and Italy have some sort of cultural thing about dryers. So many places just have a washer.
We stayed in Amsterdam with a washer/dryer combination and all of the settings were in Dutch. It was a lot of fun translating everything just to wash clothes, but very interesting.
I kind of got overwhelmed with it, so many settings on the one @ the vacation rental where I stayed. Actually had to empty out a water tank prior to using the dryer.
so true... so true!
dtjay7 now you know why I have so many pink pairs of underwear :)
I never use my dryer. I hang dry.
I recommend staying in private homes for all the reasons mentioned plus because of a personal experience we had in Rome. We rented a room in a home - with a shared bathroom down the hall - (this was before airbnb) and I got sick with the flu. The Italian husband and wife owners cared for me, fed my family in their own home, and gave so much loving help to my family! In contrast, on another trip to Rome, we stayed at a high end hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps and didn't enjoy that part of our vacation at all. The markets, family restaurants and friendly homes have added such happy memories to our family travels.
I have stayed in Flats/Apartments in the Ukraine the last 2 times and you are right the freedom and space verse the cost of hotel. I also cook and do the market thing and it is so much fun seeing what the average Ukrainian life it somewhat like. The being out with everybody free styling not on some big tour in small hotel.
I had one stay in an AirB&B in New Zealand. We lived there for 4 Weeeks in a really Nice House with a Young couple. We Almost felt like it was our own. I Went to work in the afternoon and returned back at night, my boyfriend waiting for me with a freshly cooked meal. We almost never met the hosts, cause they were busy all the time. Only bad thing was the fact that their relationship seemed to have some issues, so we sometimes woke up at 3pm, hearing them fighting and crushing plates. In this moment we felt like Little children in our bedroom.
Hey there I was wondering if you could share some tips on packing? By the way I love your videos they are so informative. Thanks for posting!
One thing I’ve noticed with renting an apartment/Airbnb is that the choice of location within a city is so much greater. A lot of times hotels will be clustered together and maybe not in a convenient location. I traveled in Europe with my parents earlier this year and we used Airbnb because we all preferred to have our own bed and finding a hotel with 3 beds is damn near impossible.
Great video! AirBnB is exellent for solotravellers who hate dining out alone, too!
I've stayed in a friend's timeshare in New Orleans twice in about 30 years. Still, whenever I see something happening in New Orleans in the news, I think, "Wow, that's right near our house!" My family rents the same beach houses during the same summer week for years at a time. It is great to have a familiar home base in a place that you love. A coworker making a lower middle class salary in the US would use his employee flight benefits to fly his family home to Cote d'Ivoire, rent a house that came with servants and live with his family like a bigwig for a couple of weeks out of the year. On the other hand, I also love staying in hotels, especially when I have to work and having the lovely staff clean up the bathroom and make the beds. It makes me feel like a wealthier person than I am.
Very interesting video Mark. I do enjoy going to local markets in every city I visit because yes, as you say it is a fantastic way to experience the "real life" and local culture but the last thing I'm doing on holiday is cook. Apartments for families but full service hotels for me!
not a problem Tosh ;) completely understand
Apartments are almost always cheaper - a three bedroom, two bathroom apartment will nearly always cost less than three hotel rooms. It is usually easy to find an apartment or house with a washer and dryer, which is obviously nice, but the hidden upside is that you can start a load of laundry and go. You don't have to sit around in the laundromat waiting for the washer and then the dryer to finish, which is a huge waste of your time. So pop in a load before you leave for the day, and when you come back, put the laundry in the dryer or on the rack. Apartments and houses may have private swimming pools and garages which surprisingly may not drive up the cost, depending on where you stay.
6:47 I believe I may have gone to that exact same crepe stand when I was in Paris. Mindblowing.
A very useful video clip 'cause most of these differences we fail to consider when choosing one over the other
Ideally, I want a flat. I splurge for the most expensive place I can afford. This is because I spend the morning doing my own thing. Then, I'm out at noon. I gotta be able to have my coffee and a simple breakfast...without foraging for it. And I just don't like all the stimulation hotels have. I spend so much time in my flat that I want it to be tastefully decorated with great light.
We ran out of toilet paper at one place, another had no sugar, or salt or pepper. I have flooded, I believe, three bathrooms in Italy, I don't think they quite understand sealing showers? All that being said, I love Airbnbs. I love the intimacy of it and having access to more commodities than just a hotel room. And yes, you are totally immersed.
Great video as always.
We stayed at apartments in Rome & Paris last October. Booked through airbnb. Both were disasters. The apartment in Paris was being "slowly" renovated while we were there but wasn't told anything when we booked. The apartment in Rome was better but nothing like the pics in the ad.
But I'm not giving up. I'm traveling to Berlin and Amsterdam and staying in airbnb apartments. I hope I have better luck this time.
it really is hit and miss with airbnb but it has gotten a little bit better but still need to search up more information. and a lot has to deal with where you are going.
Hi Mark, great video, keep them coming, they are appreciated. We nearly always stay in apartments because a lot of Europe can be challenging for vegetarians. Besides, you don't always want to get ready and go out to eat every evening; it can also get pretty expensive.
Have an rented apartment is the best. It imply to have a kitchen, that bring the satisfaction of live like a local, visit local markets, prepare your own meal with local ingredients, have your meals base on your taste, schedule, family needs and amounts (have all meals on the street for more than few days could take a toll on your stomach tolerance) and also improve your travel budget specially if you are traveling with family or kids. I'm a frequent user of this kind of services if the visit to the place is longer than 2 nights, otherwise a Hotel with fridge will be more comfortable.
We are most time in my parents house on the island KRK Croatia! My parents offers for rent also 2 apartments on the ground floor. The second is their private apartment. And most tourists are families. But like Wolter said... What's inside is different and depends what owners offering. My mom always take care that her guests don't need to bring anything with them. You have a fully kitchen witch microwave, coffee mashine, toaster... Toilet paper for the first 2 days, kitchen soaps... Games for kids, books (in German), German TV and some EU information channels... Also for the smallest kids toys for the beach and for the terrace... So it really depends on the owners. Tip... Ask all important questions before what's in the apartment. Friends of me had to take many stuff with them in Italy. For badroom and bathroom.
I've been looking at AirBnbs for awhile and honestly I was worried it was going to be more expensive than a hotel, but most people I've spoken with have actually told me it's cheaper, less stressful and allows you to actually absorb the culture. I definitely will be looking at AirBnbs and home-stays with families when I take my trip to Europe someday. (Especially since I've heard a lot of hotels charge extortionate prices over crazy things and sometimes don't even properly clean the rooms). My own little cottage in England? My own flat in Paris? A little house in Italy or a cool pod in Tokyo? Sign me up!
You could probably add under the "love" section that if you find a good apartment rental it can save you a lot of money versus staying in a hotel, particularly in a place like Paris.
oh yeah, tons of money saved on food and just relaxing at the apartment instead of going to some restaurant spending tons of money just to relax there.
Awesome advice! I've only done home rentals in the states, but I'm definitely going to try one next time I'm in Europe.
They are pretty fun. Find a good "base" location with lots of day trips. Then you get to come from your days of exploring. It's great.
Loved the Airbnb. Better deal (two thirds the cost) roomier and yes experience the culture. You can cook and do laundry. The only drawback is arranging time to get the key if you don't have wifi to use your phone.
Stayed for the first time last year in Spain in an air B and B had the whole house it was great, I loved going to the local super markets buying local food, seeing and trying different foods IV never had before and cooking them, and not having to eat out 3 meals a day is a plus.
This video was awesome for me because I'm staying at an Airbnb rental for the first time and the comparison with a hotel is inevitable. With all the pros and cons weighted I love the Airbnb but not for all trips. Some trips, esp business require a more structured stay.
If you have some flexibility Airbnb is really great!
So far for me Air BnB has been cheaper than hotels. We haven't had any problems.
Great video. I'm considering a lot of things before renting a place exclusively for BnB. Good to know, what information is valuable (stores and opening times, events, nearby facilities of interesting kinds) and which cooking facilities are needed. I also took great note on the TP and trash situation. It would be good to make a map. Any suggestions are welcome.
Love: having a clothes washer/dryer. Hate: Figuring out how to use it.
I love that guy
+Alisa Prieto thank you
Me too he needs his own show !
@@InnerPower4me on Netflix maybe
You should see the kitchens in Japan, I used to live there and my flat kitchen was just one hob right beside the door to go out.. don't think I could have called it an actual kitchen. In Barcelona we got a really big apartment to stay in, it was a lucky find
I've tried AirBnb like 3 or 4 times. Not much yet. But probably thanks to an intensive search I did always find a good one. It wasn't always the whole apartment... sometimes only one room in a apartmet with the owner. But I can not complain.
But I have to admit that I was searching hard... and there were some of the offers that I would never accept. So you have to be careful.
Yes we did that last year in Italy. Stayed in Roma and then one in Florence and then Venice.
I know exactly what you mean, have stayed in apartments in Spain the last 3 years for our main holiday and going back to Rome next week and have booked an apartment in the city for the first time fingers crossed x
Stay at the airbnb plus locations that are guaranteed by Airbnb and inspected by them.
I agree with #1, we did an AirBnB in Panama City Beach, Florida a few years ago, it had several awesome reviews, but the bed was TERRIBLE. The mattress was completely sunk in and pretty much impossible to sleep on or even lay on for a few minutes.
Check your Internet capabilities. In rural Great Britain, for example, we stayed at a couple of accomodations where the total data allowance was severely limited (like 1GB), so our kids consumed it all in the first few hours with videos without realizing it. We had no more Internet for the rest of our stay.
so ask questions and think about the things, that are unthinkable. Salt, toilet paper, flatware, wifi code.
If I'm staying more than a few days, I always get an AirBnB! You save tons of money, it's super comfortable! The fact that you're not shelling out 20 euros for coffee and a roll, per person, is usually the main thing. More room, full kitchen and dinning rooms are excellent, even if just a nook. No hotel staff going through your stuff is a plus too. I would say the worst part has to be the hand off of the keys. Most flights coming in from the US come in very early. I arrived in Munich at 7am, and had to wait outside until 1pm for the guy to show up "because that was their policy". The other is misleading or incomplete info on the site. We are used to having elevators and this is not the norm in Europe. Having to climb 5 floors of very narrow and steep stairs, with luggage is not fun!
in mar 2017 looking for apartment in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Barcelona. For the first time, i will try Airbnb... wish me luck...
same I'm looking for an apartment in Copenhagen & maybe Stockholm for April, best of luck
Meidi Perwadi same here for late August looking for an apartment in Glasgow, Paris and Barcelona hopefully I can read the good reviews to some good places.
Meidi Perwadi look for good reviews and check the owner. Drop them an email and see how they react. My wife and I were using airbnb for our new year travel two weeks ago to Paris, Hamburg and Amsterdam and we had a wonderful time every time.
andi bdg thank you
Did you find the Glasgow one? We had a great one down on Argyll road, very close to Kelvingrove. 92 Old Dumbarton road or something like that. We were a party of four. Only warning is that it's about 5 floors up with no lift.
I didn't realize the first time I booked one that you have to specify how much interaction you want with the owner. I ended up renting one while the woman who owns the place was still there most of the time when I visited Chicago. There was part of me that was just never okay with that because for what I paid I wanted full privacy.
I don’t like to rent a room in the host’s house for the same reason. I feel like I have to be social. If the host is social it is even worse. Apt on its own is ok but it is more expensive to rent.
Wolter, are your kids in school? Isn't it hard to keep them in school when you are always traveling around the world?
we get them abroad every break so they do stay in school most of the time :)
The kitchen hate doesn't really make sense to me. Most hotels don't have any kitchen or kitchenette anyway, so you wouldn't be able to cook anything in your hotel room. Many Airbnbs have awesome kitchens supplied with pots and pans and other things you need to cook.
And 6th thing you're not gonna like about AirBnB is "don't book too late". Be sure to book in advance for the dates you've chosen since they might be already overbooked on that certain app you'd like to live in for a week or two.
I would love an update on this topic for 2023 with how much Airbnb has changed 😀
Funny thing : "La pétaudière", the shop's name at 6:46 means : "the messy place"
Shows picture of kids during “garbage and recycling” title screen 😆. Now that’s funny Wolter... Those kids seem relatively good to travel with....
My biggest suggestion for using Airbnb would be always go with the reviews. And at all times choose a Superhost or Airbnb certified. You don't want to be in a foreign country where you don't know the language especially if you are with family with a dodgy host. Pay that bit extra and save money on other things.
Great video, any tips on best area or Airbnb for Paris for two people? I’m watching all your videos to find this info. 😊
planning on going to Venice next year, any tips for a nice AirBnB? Thanks!
Your children are living an extraordinary life!
Is there a country that this man and is family have not visit.
Haven't heard him mention Africa.
I'm sure you know this if you are a subscriber, but they're now in Tanzania!
Saw a video of them in Kenya I believe.
Very Informative =) Really enjoy your videos. Thanks for sharing sir ;)
Apts are great for more than 3-4 days, otherwise I like the amenities of hotels and service, also airb&b is getting close to hotel prices in popular places. Apt owners can be quite arrogant/protective and the properties are not always like the photos., If you have specific requirements like reduced mobility, they will never tell you about all the surprise steps or difficult access or noisy neighbors. Also you have to buy groceries and no easy breakfast. But can be more confortable than hotel room if you are happy with the place, as a solo traveller I am happy with hotels for now...
Not sure if you've done an update to this since it says you published this video about 3 years ago, but I totally get what you mean about times and stuff. The annoying thing I get at times is hosts will put things like check in at such and such time so I book it, then get a message from them in response to my telling them what time I'll be there saying that actually they won't be there until a much different time.
It seems time goes so much slower in Europe than USA.
We book most of our apartments through Booking.com and we have never gone wrong. I like the fact you feel as though your at home but on holiday at the same time
Go to Siena italy close to florence.
love it there. had a great time both time I visited. well worth going to
You should visit Istanbul! A very cheap city with a lot of history. I've heard the people are very hospitable.
I've never done Airbnb but I would think I wouldn't like something on a vacation to "feel like home" unless of course I am staying with relatives. I mean, if I want to feel like I'm at home then I'd stay at home.
dip1955 well the point is to be able to see how others live and to learn from them.I be done them and its been a big $$ saver☺
Can someone please recommend a place where I can rent an apartment in Rome, my husband and I are going there for a week and we would love to stay in an apartment.
Hi Wolter. I am leaving for Italy (Milan,Venice,Florence,Assisi,Rome,Pompeii) with middle school in 2 weeks I am BEYOND EXITED! Do you have any tips for me to keep my stuff safe and tips on how to get the most out of my trip? I am traveling alone (without my parents) but with a tour group of about 40 kids&adults. I've watched a lot of your videos, and a lot of them say things about how tour groups are very annoying, but this is the only way I can travel to Italy, by myself, at my age.
I almost forgot an important question. I am going in early march to Italy, so should I pack long sleeve shirts and pants or just casual clothes like t-shirts and shorts. I am from Texas so a anything below 50 is cold to us :)
I like the freedom idea. I want to try it some day .... soon.
hey man, love your videos!
i wish i can be like you always travelling around :)
you can jacky :) you can!!! go for it! all the best for your travels!
Hey Mark, alright? Im back watching your videos. I also love apartments especially if they are free :D (i.e. couchsurfing). I agree with all u said. Btw do u have any Colombia videos??
No Colombia videos yet sadly :( thanks for watching again! It is very much appreciated!
So glad you've kept the beard! It suits you.
You can use a hotel as a hub for your travels too? I don't see how that would be an advantage over hotels. I personanlly would add the price instead. B&b's are usually cheaper.
I LOVE Airbnb! I used Airbnb hosts for Mulhouse, Beauvais, Venice and Rome and they were all excellent because I could read credible reviews on them beforehand. (no i wasn't paid to say this, though I should be lol)
Can you please give me more info on that place you mentioned in Paris ?
Hey Mark I’m going to Italy in April 2023, my first in Italy so I’m a bit nervous and excited. Im celebrating being cancer free and I’m traveling with my small chihuahua. What is the best place to stay, Airbnb or apartment? Plus any tips is welcome! Thank you!