Since the birth of the Internet, there are now loads of websites by which you can search for accommodation around the world. No longer are your choices limited to suggestions by friends or from guidebooks. You can now research just about every hotel, hostel, or apartment right from the comfort of your home computer. However, with this added convenience ironically comes new inconveniences. For one, you must now sort through and determine the most trustworthy websites out of hundreds offering the same accommodation search services. In order to help narrow your search, we have provided a list of the leading websites which cater to your specific accommodation needs.
Free Accommodation
The leading website to find free accommodation just about anywhere in the world in couchsufing.com. Although this site caters more towards the vagabond or young backpacker, there is really no age limit. All you have to do is sign up and browse the available couches in your desired country. Although it is called couchsurfing, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will have to sleep on a couch. Many times people offer private rooms and will state this in their listing. You may be wondering, how can this be free? The answer is that people are offering free places to stay because they are usually travelers themselves and want to connect with other interesting travelers.
Youth Hostels
The two leading websites to help you find cheap youth hostels and hotels around the world are Hotelbookers.com and Hostelworld.com. Both websites offer a similar and simple user experience. Simply specify a location and a price range, and you will be able to view all the appropriate listings. Each hostel or hotel you click on will then give you detailed information as well as previous guest reviews. A good idea to ensure the quality of the hostel/hotel you are interested in is to compare them on both sites.
Private Rooms and Apartments
For those of you looking for a short of long term room or apartment, one of the best website is Wimdu. Wimdu is similar to couch surfing in that it provides a medium for people with extra rooms or a free apartment to list them to prospective guests. However, unlike couch surfing, you will have to pay for your stay. The benefits of Wimdu is that you will generally find places that are in great locations, as clean as a hotel, but cost a fraction of the price.
Conclusion
With so many ways to find accommodation on the internet, it is often hard finding the place that is right for you. If you’re really on a tight budget, then couch surfing is the site for you. If you’re willing to pay for a cheap youth hostel or hotel, definitely head to hotelworld.com or hostelbookers.com. And if you’re looking for a new experience, a hybrid between the traditional hotel and sleeping on a random couch, definitely check out Wimdu.com
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