4 Ways To Find Cool Airbnbs
Airbnbs are my best friend on work trips. I often find that they are less expensive, and you can get more space and amenities than staying at a hotel. Plus parking is usually free, which can be a big pain at some hotels that charge valet/parking fees. However, if you’re not careful about picking your Airbnb, you might not have a good experience. I always get asked, “Ellie, how do you always find such cool Airbnbs?! So below i’m sharing with you my process for choosing airbnbs far and wide! Click here to get up to $55 off your first Airbnb stay!
1) SEARCH USING KEYWORDS IN GOOGLE
Ok it sounds a little silly, and I feel a little embarassed telling you all this, but I usually start out with searching “Hip Trendy Modern Airbnb and then the city you are going to.” Example: “Hip Trendy Modern Airbnb Portland.” Trust me you guys, it works. People use keywords like those for the title of their Airbnb listing, but Airbnb doesn’t have a keyword search feature on their website, hence why I normally start out with Google! If something catches my eye, I’ll click around and see if it’s available for the dates that I’m staying
2) SEARCH INSTAGRAM HASHTAGS
What better way to visually search for Airbnbs that via Instagram!? I normally search the city followed by airbnb. For example #portlandairbnb and if something catches my eye I investiage deeper! I just tested my method and found this beautiful space that I didn’t see when I was searching Airbnb’s search engine and had 300+ homes to look through.
3) USE AIRBNB’S MAP FEATURE
If the searching through Google or Instagram hasn’t gotten you very far, try entering your dates in Airbnb’s search engine, make sure to check “Entire Place”, and click over to View Map. Location is EVERYTHING when it comes to traveling for me. So if it’s close to a part of town that has good restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance that’s even better!
4) Search Within Airbnb Plus
Airbnb Plus listings are usually pretty great, they are verified by Airbnb themselves and require a certain standard of quality and good reviews, and they are normally pretty stylish! You can filter your search to view only Airbnb Plus listings as well. Try to book as far in advance as you can. Obviously the best Airbnbs are going to get snatched up first, so the sooner you can book, the better
Most importantly, make sure to read reviews, because that’s the best way to tell what kind of experience you are going to have! Reviewers don’t lie, and its important to read through them! I always recommend searching by “entire place” so you’re not sharing living quarters with strangers. Personally, I prefer it that way! Hope you have fun on your next adventure and found this guide helpful!
This Airbnb in Joshua Tree was one of my favorites. The bathtub in the backyard was everything!!
This Airbnb in Tulum, Mexico was incredible with its own private pool and 3 bedrooms. It was perfect for sharing with one of our couple friends!
Other favorite Airbns that i’ve stayed at.
Fresno - The Tower House, Modern Poplar House.
Santa Barbara - The K Lounge
San Diego - Little Italy Hideaway
Portland - Modern Light-filled Laurelhurst