What Makes a Good Airbnb?
Tips for owners to improve the guest experience and pitfalls to watch out for
When I travel to countries I know, especially with other family members, I usually choose Airbnb because, at its best, it’s a home-from-home. I don’t mind hotels for very short stays, but I’m happier where I can make the essential cups of tea and prepare meals. Eating out is enjoyable occasionally but is one of the most expensive aspects of travel.
I’ve stayed in twenty-one different Airbnbs over the last eight years, and most of my experiences have been pleasant and problem-free.
Here are five essentials to get right and ensure a comfortable stay for your guests:
1. The Listing
The space should be exactly as described, match the photos on the site and be consistent. When selecting a holiday home, you rely on the images, description and reviews of previous guests to give you a sense of what it’s like, so you can feel cheated when you arrive and it’s different from what you expected. I’ve stayed in places with ambiguous descriptions and lists of amenities not there when we arrived. Worse is when another guest review raves about the welcome pack left for them, and you don’t find one when you arrive in the same place!
