Short term rentals: what they are and where to find them

Short-term rentals are a type of accommodation where a property owner rents out their property for a shorter period of time, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks. They are designed to provide travelers with a more home-like experience compared to traditional hotels and can often be a more cost-effective option. The properties offered for short-term rental can range from a private room in someone’s home, to an entire apartment, house, or villa.

Some of the key features of short-term rentals include:

• More space: compared to hotel rooms, short-term rentals often offer more living space, including separate bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.
• Privacy: short-term rentals offer more privacy compared to hotels, as travelers have the entire property to themselves.
• Amenities: short-term rentals often come with amenities such as a kitchen, washing machine, and Wi-Fi, making them more convenient for travelers.

You can find short-term rentals on various online platforms, such as:

• Airbnb: one of the largest short-term rental platforms, offering a variety of properties ranging from private rooms to entire homes and apartments.
• Booking.com: an online travel agency that offers a wide range of accommodations, including short-term rentals.
• VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner): a platform that connects travelers with property owners who offer short-term rentals, including apartments, houses, and cottages.
• HomeAway: a platform that specializes in holiday rentals and offers a wide range of properties, including apartments, villas, and houses.

It’s important to note that the regulations around short-term rentals vary by country, state, and city. Some places have restrictions on the number of days a property can be rented out, while others have imposed taxes on short-term rental income. Before booking a short-term rental, it’s important to research the regulations in the area to ensure you are in compliance.