The Rise of Alternative Accommodation Booking Apps
The traditional method of booking hotels or resorts when travelling is now a thing of the past. In recent years, travelling has undergone a revolution with more and more travellers looking for unique experiences and accommodation options. This trend of unique accommodation experiences has paved the way for numerous alternative accommodation booking apps that cater to such requirements.
Launched in 2008, Airbnb is the pioneer in the alternative accommodation booking sector and has become a synonymous brand with the sharing economy. However, several other players are gradually gaining popularity. Below listed are the top 5 apps like Airbnb for booking unique accommodations.
1. Vrbo (Vacation Rentals By Owner)
Launched in 1995, Vrbo is one of the oldest alternative accommodation options. However, it still holds its popularity and caters to over 2 million listings worldwide. Unlike Airbnb, Vrbo caters mostly to families and large groups looking for vacation homes and villas. It also offers a separate section for luxury accommodations.
2. HomeAway
HomeAway was founded in 2005 and is now owned by Vrbo. It caters to travellers who are looking for a more homely experience. HomeAway has over 2 million unique accommodations listed in over 190 countries. One of the main differences between Airbnb and HomeAway is that HomeAway charges travellers a fee to book directly with the property owner, unlike Airbnb, where the booking is secure, and the traveller can pay online.
3. FlipKey
FlipKey was launched in 2007 and was acquired by TripAdvisor in 2008. It offers travellers access to over 300,000 unique accommodations globally. FlipKey primarily focuses on vacation homes and villas, and their unique selling point is that all their properties go through a rigorous verification process.
4. Homestay
Homestay operates in over 150 countries, offering travellers a more immersive experience by allowing them to stay in the homes of local hosts. Homestay is one of the best apps for travellers looking to immerse themselves in local cultures, traditions, and customs.
5. OneFineStay
OneFineStay is a luxury alternative accommodation provider that caters to high-end travellers. It offers unique accommodation options such as castles, villas, and mansions for a truly elevated experience. OneFinestay currently operates in Paris, Rome, New York, Miami, and Los Angeles.
Conclusion
Alternative accommodation booking apps have completely changed the way we travel, and the trend of unique experiences and accommodations is here to stay. While Airbnb was the pioneer in this sector, the competition is slowly increasing with more players entering the market. These innovative alternatives cater to unique requirements, and travellers can choose the best option based on what they are looking for. Regardless of their choice, travellers are sure to have unique and unforgettable experiences on their next trip.
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