AirBnB, Room Share Websites

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The rise of Airbnb, roam.co and other room share websites provides another accommodation option. Like serviced apartments, they are most relevant for longer term stays. If you do not mind sharing an apartment with the owners/occupiers or have time for collecting keys etc on the day you arrive, this could be a good option. You will miss out on all the benefits of a hotel like room service, concierge, a gym, access to staff to assist you along the way, a business center. But perhaps you do not need these services. Choose carefully on Airbnb, room share website. Then contact the owner/occupier for more detailed information, and you can probably find an apartment to suit you.

Be aware, that these services are still being integrated into the legal and social frameworks of cities. In some cases there are issues around “legality”. This is usually the domain of the owner rather than you as the tenant but can include issues with neighbours who do not appreciate properties being sublet like a hotel.

Also remember that sometimes there are problems with owners and in this case, you will need to get the management of the room share website involved to resolve issues. This can add complexity and unforeseen time wasting issues which can be problematic. Imagine waiting in the airline lounge to board your 15 hour flight to Los Angeles from Sydney. You receive an sms from the owner/occupier is no longer available. You have booked the property and paid a deposit which can be refunded but your booking is now cancelled. It has happened. The difficulty of finding somewhere to stay with such short notice can lead to added cost and unnecessary frustration. There can be risks/downsides compared to hotels and serviced apartments.

You also need to be conscious of security in room share apartments. Who has a key to the apartment and how many people have a key is not known. Anyone could enter (previous room share participant could copy a key) and steal from you. Or worse, your personal safety could be at risk. A door wedge maybe a useful tool to take if you are staying in a room share apartment. Take Care.

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