I feel many can agree that we prefer to be comfortable…

To what measure that occurs for each is to all their own.

When traveling and staying in your home away from home, I personally don’t want where I lay my head at night to ruin where my feet will take me in the morning. Now, don’t get me wrong, I understand the need for sacrifices in certain circumstances but if the plan is to stay in a building someone else owns, I much rather prefer the less corporate hotel kind of stay. More welcoming to me is the smiling faces of those hospitable Beverly Hillbillies waving me goodbye while always welcoming me back.

I’ve always been a huge fan of bed and breakfast establishments. The problem is, and this of course is only to my personal degree of knowledge, I have found them far too expensive, even for the level of genuine experience they offer.

Recently however, I’ve unlocked the door to a new place to stay, the Airbnb. I remember hearing friends discuss this fairly newer idea (according to Wikipedia 10 years young) and not fully understanding the entire concept. Although the ‘bnb’ has managed to remain in the name, it is not always a part of the show per say. There will not always be a breakfast awaiting you in the morning and some stays will offer far more accommodation than others. One thing I can say from personal experience, is that you will almost always encounter the unique.

I’d like to share a special part of one of my first experiences with staying in what I consider to be far better than a hotel and much more affordable to the original bed and breakfast. This experience was on a trip made by car from Pennsylvania to Texas and back. You can read more about that HERE! I had a place to stay while in Texas, but needed somewhere to sleep for a night in between each way traveled. I chose Bristol, Tennessee.

Click here for Trip Advisor’s 15 BEST Things to do in Bristol, TN

I wasn’t sure what to expect this first time around, and was honestly slightly nervous. I knew I would be arriving late, but had already cleared this detail with my host previous to booking my stay.

Not every host will be accommodating to the one who arrives late, but by reading all of the many details provided in their profiles and directly messaging them you will be able to see who may be the best fit for your stay in regards to your arrival time. My host provided a great level of communication, so I was even able to push back my arrival time as I traveled.

After a long drive, I was more than ready for some sweet dreams but still had to get myself inside. This host offered a key lock box entry option.

This is an advantage I’ve found available by many hosts. For myself, this is the by far the preferred way of entry as opposed to orchestrating a schedule with a host.

I met the host and her adorable dog before heading up to my room and racing to ‘snooze’ville. The room was beautifully and comfortably accommodating. Towels and wash cloths were provided.

My stay here was brief since I had to get back on the road very early in the morning. I found this to be the beginning to a whole new way to book my stay.

During another trip, using this new and improved way to book accommodations, while in Taos, New Mexico I was given the opportunity to connect much more with my host since I would be in the area for two nights rather than one.

I was able to enjoy complementary coffee and they also had bathroom amenities which is something not found at all so take note. Another treasure included with this stay, was the absolutely priceless conversation and the chance to get to know someone. My host provided the tour guide essentials for what to do in the area, but she also allowed me to get to know her.

Click here for Trip Advisor’s Top Things to do in Taos, NM

We chatted about various things. This included the opportunity to learn she had once lived close to one of my past homes. She had pets, which for me is always awesome because I love animals. I do however, understand this style of stay is not for everyone and I would strongly recommend that everyone read closely all of the details provided by the hosts along with any reviews.

It may not always be the case when you stay at an Airbnb to make a new friend, but when it does come along, don’t miss out!

I found my experiences to be top notch. Research really is a key factor in choosing where and with whom you will stay, this definitely in my opinion is not a step to skip.

I do really appreciate how the site is set up to be very user friendly and easy to navigate. They offer the option to narrow down your search which is always helpful, especially if you don’t want to break the bank when viewing anything above your budget is simply a waste of time.

Another commendable feature for the site is that you do need to verify your identity by setting up an account and providing your license and such. It’s always nice to see that some level of security is being provided. Airbnb is definitely worth your second glance.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOq98r97zAk]

I’d love to hear your thoughts on your “Home Away From Home.” Would you take the time to check out this new way to stay? Or are you already well seasoned with Airbnb and have your own experiences to share? Please don’t hesitate to share or ask in the comment section below!

I bet there are plenty of people that would like to learn about your personal experiences and travels as well! Why not consider, submitting an article of your own to be reviewed for posting HERE on Roaming Interest!

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