10 Airbnbs Around the World You Should Book Once
I’ve been to 34 countries so far and I can tell you that where you stay matters. Here are my top 10 Airbnb recommendations around the world I’ve stayed at that I think you should consider booking for your future stays.
When I first started (really) traveling in my mid-20s, I thought it didn’t matter where I stayed since I “wasn’t going to be spending that much time there anyway”. Wrong. When I think back on my travels, where I’ve chosen to stay, whether good or bad, has been one of the main things I remember from my trip. My advice: don’t underestimate the power of being in a space that really makes you feel like you belong (or not) in a place you plan to temporarily call home.
In this story I’m sharing the top 10 Airbnbs around the world I’ve stayed in the last couple of years that I’d book again. As you start to plan or create wish lists for your future 2021 travels (or even just looking to take a break from your own home you’ve gotten to know better than ever in the last year), these are some Airbnb options I can honestly recommend.
CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA
1. TABLE MOUNTAIN VIEWS LUXURY APARTMENT
This apartment is one of the many reasons why I fell in love with Cape Town. It’s modern, clean, spacious and equipped with everything you could possibly want or need in your own home away from home. The apartment is tastefully decorated all around, but I especially loved the tropical wallpaper. It also has a secure parking lot on the premises for that car you must rent when visiting Cape Town.
My favorite part: Breathtaking views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.
ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND
2. PRIVATE BEDROOM & HOME OFFICE @ ZÜRICHBERG
As I was planning my trip to Zürich a friend of mine recommended I look in the suburbs for a more peaceful retreat and that’s exactly what I found at Villa Zürichberg. Located just 15 minutes outside of the city, this place and location truly exceeded my expectations. The Villa has several different rooms you can book and mine had a spectacular view of Lake Zürich. There’s something special about staying in what feels like a palace in the country that really makes you feel like “you’re somewhere else”.
My favorite part: Breakfast every morning in the dining quarters.
Learn more about Zürich in my blog post.
BEAULIEU-SUR-MER, PROVENCE-ALPES-CÔTE D’AZUR, FRANCE
3. CENTER OF BEAULIEU: TERRACE NEAR THE PORT AND BEACH
Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the French Riviera between Nice and Monaco is one of those places you’re tempted to almost not care where you stay since you’re just happy to be there, but I’m so glad I did some homework and found this cute, minimalist apartment in the heart of town. This place was spotless and felt brand new.
My favorite part: View from the balcony of the mountains, sea and plaza (with a side of wine).
BANGKOK, THAILAND
4. DUPLEX 01~ CHAMBERLAIN BOUTIQUE HOUSE
If you’re visiting Thailand, Bangkok is likely on your list and many times where you’ll start your trip. Depending on where you’re coming from, you probably just sat on a plane (or several) for many hours and the thought of getting to a place where you can just rest up and be ready to easily kick-off your adventure the next day is priority. That’s exactly why I chose Chamberlain Bangkok, a boutique hostel conveniently located in the heart of town. I chose a private room, but you have the option to share.
My favorite part: Location, location, location and very fairly priced.
CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
5. LEAFY GREENS CHIANG MAI : MUSHROOM M4
If you’re up for trying something unique surrounded by nature while in Chiang Mai, then I highly recommend booking a stay at Leafy Greens. This is a place where you go to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city. I stayed in Mushroom M4, but there are several different clay houses you can choose from.
My favorite part: Walking the grounds.
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO
6. BEST VIEWS AND LOCATION IN TOWN THE PENTHOUSE
This next pick I didn’t actually stay at, but luckily I had friends who did. I rented a different Airbnb a few blocks away, which was good, but if I had to recommend a place to stay in San Miguel de Allende it would definitely be this one. I spent a lot of time at this charming property visiting my friends. The Penthouse is part of a 300 year old colonial property and has its own private floor and entrance. The incredible indoor/outdoor living space has a covered area where we had our breakfast every morning and a terrace and rooftop with spectacular views of the city. The Penthouse is charming and beautifully decorated, offering all of the comforts of home. There’s also a studio apartment you can inquire about renting.
My favorite part: Alice, the owner, is a lovely person and will make you feel like you’re home. She also has a lot of local knowledge she’s happy to share.
Learn more about San Miguel de Allende in my blog post.
VENICE, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
7. CHARMING VENICE BUNGALOW! CLEAN, BREEZY, PEACEFUL.
I had the chance to call this bungalow in the beach town of Venice, Los Angeles my home for three months. It’s the longest I’ve ever spent in an Airbnb and I feel so lucky to have found such a perfect fit for a long stay. This home is located in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in West L.A. within walking distance of Abbott Kinney Boulevard and a short ride to the beach. It’s a quiet, residential neighborhood that really gives you that feeling of “home”. The bungalow itself is impeccable with incredible attention to detail. The back deck serves as a zen place to work outdoors and take in that California sunshine.
My favorite part: Host and owner Hope is diligent in communicating and making sure you are taken care of throughout your stay.
Learn more about Los Angeles, California in my video.
MARINA DEL REY, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
8. SPACIOUS 1BR CONDO IN MARINA DEL REY WITH PARKING
I absolutely love loft apartment living and so this condo was my top pick when looking for a one-month stay in Marina Del Rey. It’s hosted by Zeus Living, a company specializing in long term stays in major cities across the U.S. Once you book on Airbnb a Zeus host will contact you via the app and provide you with very detailed instructions on how to pick up your keys, where to park your car and house rules. It very much feels like walking into your own place and regular apartment living.
My favorite part: The level of privacy.
Learn more about Los Angeles, California in my video.
MIDDLEBURY, CONNECTICUT
9. ALMOST A VINEYARD FARM GETAWAY
I had a short, but delightful stay at this rustic farmhouse in Connecticut. A true getaway, just two hours by car from New York City. Private ponds and a barn are just a couple of the elements of country charm you’ll get to experience as part of your stay.
My favorite part: Waking up to barn animals (how often do you get to do that?)
SUFFERN, NEW YORK
10. NEWLY RENOVATED FOREST OASIS WITH POOL & FIRE-PIT
I spent a month and a half at this Airbnb taking in all the beauty fall in the forest has to offer. This private guest house is perfect for two, and in our case our furry one too.
It’s on five acres of land, tucked away from the main road. Our hosts Evelyn and Douglas are great at giving you your privacy while being around for anything you need.
The fire pit is a must under the stars. If you’re looking for a true nature retreat, this place is for you.
My favorite part: Farm fresh eggs with your stay.
