13 International Airbnbs Where You Can Live Like A Local On The Cheap
Once you bite the bullet and book a big international vacation, the last thing you want to do is spend the rest of your budget on hotels and lodging. That’s where Airbnb, the company that lets you rent out people’s homes and actually live like a local, comes in. In fact, these places are so cool that they might be enough inspiration to book your next flight. At the very least, these homes will give you some serious redecorating inspiration for your own corner of the world.
Sechelt, BC, Canada
This charming cabin with views of the Sechelt Inlet is one of Airbnb’s “most wishlisted” properties across Canada, and it’s easy to see why. The tall A-frame structure gives the loft bedroom a beautiful shape, perfect for those of you who dreamed of having an attic bedroom as a kid. Go hiking or mountain biking during the day (and bring your dog!) and spend the evenings relaxing in the elegant clawfoot bathtub. Book it for $84 a night.
Tuscany, Italy
Remember in Under the Tuscan Sun, how Diane Lane stars as a woman who falls in love with a villa in Tuscany while she happens to be vacationing in Italy, and then decides to move there permanently? That movie is based on the true story of the author Frances Mayes, who still lives in Tuscany today and loves it. This incredible country home overlooking the beautiful Tuscan hillside will make you start thinking about how to finance your own summer place in Italy. It’s available for an unbelievable $60 a night.
Shanghai, China
This light-filled loft in Shanghai is close to public transportation and is walking distance from restaurants, bars and the busy city. Hang out in the backyard garden and enjoy the music drifting over from the nearby Shanghai Conservatory of Music. Book it for $80 a night.
Cisternino, Italy
Built in the trullo style (a stone hut with a conical roof) unique to the Itria Valley, this castle-like compound was recently restored by master craftsmen and features classic architectural elements, three spacious bedrooms, a living room with a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s close to cultural and historical places like the sea of Puglia and Alberobello, Martina Franca and Castellana Grotte. Book this beautiful home for $98 a night.
Perast, Montenegro
This studio home in Perast, Montenegro features a lovely terrace and views of the islands of Sveti Đorđe and Our Lady of the Rocks. An outside dining table allows you to enjoy your meals on the water. A dock right next to the studio allows you to explore Gospa od Škrpjela, the only manmade island on the Adriatic. Book it for $44 a night.
Lombardy, Italy
Overlooking a giant lake, mountains and the medieval village of Riva di Solto, this luxury apartment includes a tennis court, bowling green and a swimming pool that’s open in the summer. The nearby cities Brescia, Bergamo, Milan, Verona and Venice are all accessible by car. Book this apartment for $56 a night.
Bali, Indonesia
Stay in this ecologically friendly cottage, made from basket-woven bamboo and featuring a mini loft, in Bali, Indonesia. Breakfast is delivered when you wake up each morning. And, a traditional Balinese village dinner, using vegetables sourced from the organic garden, is served underneath the stars every evening. Rice fields surrounding the cottage are perfect for hiking, and the town of Ubud is five minutes away. Book this cottage for $67 a night.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Relax in the lap of luxury in this well-appointed Morrocan home that includes a pool on the patio and a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy the sun. Each of the bedroom suites has its own shower. Plus, a housekeeper and babysitter are at your disposal during your stay. Book this home for $85 a night .
Hvar, Croatia
Centrally located beneath the historic Fortress Spanjola, and offering views of Hvar harbor and Pakleni islands, this quiet home is minutes away from the beach, markets and the town square. Book this scenic escape for only $64 a night.
Porto, Portugal
This recently remodeled duplex is located in Rua das Flores, in the historical center of Porto, Portugal. The apartment is central to tons of activities in downtown Porto, all of which is visible from the wraparound balcony. It’s available for $89 a night.
Ostuni, Italy
Escape into the Italian countryside and stay in this 300-year-old trullo where a wood-burning oven keeps you warm and solar power is used for hot water. Four acres of land are perfect for those who love to explore, either on foot or by bike. In the shaded gazebo out front, dine outside and take advantage of the barbecue, and then digest your meal in the hammock nearby. Book this paradise for $98 a night.
Lloseta, Spain
Located at the feet of Serra de Tramuntana, recently declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO and five minutes from the lively village of Lloseta, this secluded getaway was built to blend in with the beautiful Majorcan countryside. Take part in activities like hiking, horseback riding, sailing and swimming, or just relax on the sunny terrace. Available for $60 a night.
Ermelo, Netherlands
This quaint cabin in a giant garden in the Netherlands was made for those who love to feel like they’re living in nature. A wood stove and a nearby stream of water takes care of your basic amenities, and lakes and beaches are nearby. The city of Amsterdam is an hour away by car. Book this garden home for $59 a night.