To Airbnb or Not to Airbnb?

It’s an ever growing competitor landscape and the hospitality industry is no different. With the evolution of technology, the tide of control has shifted and the fledgling start-up can be pitted against the conglomerate. 

We take a look at how Airbnb fares against a traditional hotel, to see who comes out on top to provide the most bang-for-your-buck, taking into account the experience, facilities and location.

Airbnb versus Hotel

Those wanting a unique experience with larger guest rooms

Airbnb appeals to the millennial generation, promising a unique, less manufactured experience, which can often offer more space than a traditional hotel guest room. You have the option to hire the entire property or rent a room as part of a host family, in a home-from-home environment.

On booking an Airbnb you can see the exact room/property you will be staying at, so what you’ll see if what you’ll get, however you’ll also miss out on the chance to be upgraded.

Those wanting a consistent brand experience with support on-hand

A hotel offers a consistent brand experience that you can trust. If you experience a problem with your room, there’s the chance to move rooms, or discuss those problems with the guest relations manager who is employed by the hotel, rather than the owner themselves.

An efficient booking process

Booking a hotel will often be easier and quicker than booking via Airbnb, as you need to take time to go through the individual listings. Hotels spend a huge amount of revenue making the booking process as easy and intuitive as possible to save you time.

Facilities

Hotels have some fantastic social and communal facilities including bars, restaurants, spas, gyms and swimming pools. Mod cons such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning are usually included as standard, with high internet speeds and support on-hand.

In contrast an Airbnb offers a somewhat autonomous experience, although you may have exclusive use of those facilities.

Value for money

Airbnb can often provide far more (exclusive) square metres for your money, as you’re not paying for the service and shared facilities that a hotel will provide.

Airbnb will sometimes occur additional charges for mod cons such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning. It’s also commonplace to expect high security deposits to protect yourself and the property from damage, which will be reimbursed after your stay.

Location

Airbnb can provide more choice in terms of remote or far-a-field locations, as they do not face the same limitations as a hotel. However, in return you’ll not have the transport links and outside resources that are often associated with a hotel.

Top five reasons to stay in an Airbnb:

• A unique or personalised experience in a home-from-home environment
• Exclusive use of the facilities
• Further a-field locations
• Larger guest rooms
• Immersive cultural experience

Top five reasons to stay in a Hotel:

• A consistent brand experience
• Onsite facilities and the latest technology
• Socialising and communal experiences
• Dedicated customer service and on-site support
• Transport links and additional resources

We hope you enjoyed our battle of Airbnb Vs Hotel and you use our tips to plan your next trip!