Travel Accommodations – Which Will Suit You?

Posted 1.17.2026

—

Picking the right place to stay while traveling isn’t as simple as booking a bed. It sets the tone for your entire trip! Are you looking for bright lights and late nights, or morning coffee with a view of the mountains? The perfect stay looks different for everyone, so before you book something, let’s break down some critical considerations:

Pace and Location

Are you the type who wants to wake up to the buzz of a city, or does the sound of birds chirping sound more appealing to you?  And what about transportation – are you brave enough to drive a car on narrow, windy roads where locals treat the speed limit as suggestions, or would you rather take public transportation? If neither appeals to you, be sure to bring comfortable shoes and your pedometer to track how many miles you walk each day!

Type of Venue

Hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, and house swaps – each has their own vibe. My rule? If we’re in a country where English is not the primary language, I stick to accommodations where I can easily communicate with the staff in the event of a problem. No one wants to book a quaint countryside home to find out it’s a barn. 

Level of Luxury

Are you yearning for 800-thread count sheets and a king-sized bed, or do you enjoy making friends and hanging out in a common space?  Do you want a view from your room or need concierge services? The answers to these questions will steer you toward very different accommodation.

Don’t forget to do your research! Look at reviews on the booking sites. We typically only book at places with exceptional or excellent ratings. If you find a venue you love but the ratings aren’t high, read the review comments. Sometimes you’ll find people have issues with the venue that you don’t care about at all. After you’ve narrowed down to your shot list, compare the costs of booking through the booking sites against the cost of booking directly through the venue. We’ve had luck booking direct through the venue, but you can also find deals through the booking sites.

Please, feel free to add to the list – What tips do you have for finding places to stay and eat when you travel? What else do you find important when choosing your stay?