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Airbnb changed travel when it launched in 2008. The site made homestays a viable option for travelers looking to experience a place more authentically — and do so more affordably than with a hotel. Plus, it made booking a big place easier for families and large groups.
Airbnb is still a great place to book a stay. It offers the largest selection of places, and the site’s booking process is pretty great. But Airbnb isn’t exactly the booking utopia that it once was: Prices have increased (mostly due to fees), and some feel that the site’s quality and safety control are lacking.
However, Airbnb is not the only worthwhile homestay company. Similar sites like VRBO (which launched way back in 1995), and more specific platforms like Oliver’s Travels (which offers luxury stays) also offer excellent homes and shared rooms all over the world. You will see some overlap between these Airbnb alternatives, as owners will usually list their stays on multiple sites, but most other sites will also have places you won’t find on Airbnb.
Best Airbnb Alternatives
Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the best Airbnb alternatives worth checking out right now. You’ll find booking sites with millions of properties, platforms with more curated selections, and options from big-name brands like Marriott and Booking.com.
VRBO
VRBO is Airbnb’s most direct competitor with a huge selection of vacation rentals around the globe. The main difference is that VRBO doesn’t deal with shared spaces, whereas Airbnb also offers rooms in owners’ homes. But, if you’re looking for a private home, VRBO is always worth checking. The site offers an intuitive interface with tons of search filters to comb through all its offerings.
Oliver’s Travels
For luxury villas
Oliver’s Travels
If you’re looking for a more curated selection of stays, head to Oliver’s Travels (one of our recent Travel Awards winners). The luxury rental service has stunning villas all over the world, from deluxe chateaus in the Alps to charming beachfront estates. The process of booking and staying in an Oliver’s Travels villa is also exceptional thanks to the site’s concierge service, which can help with transportation, local recommendations, or any other inquiries — just like you’d find at a five-star hotel.
Homestay
For shared accommodations
Homestay
On the opposite end of the budget spectrum is Homestay, which specializes in shared spaces. It’s ideal if you’re looking to save some money (the average price per room is $38), but it’s also an excellent way to meet people and experience a place like a local. They’ve been around since 2013 and boast excellent reviews from both users and travel experts.
Onefinestay
Another great option for luxury vacation rentals is Onefinestay. Expect a great selection of high-end, well-maintained rentals in great locations, but also hotel-like service from professional cleaning to 24/7 support. Onefinestay can also help you choose a location and build a curated itinerary if you’re unsure how you want your trip to look.
Huge selection
Booking.com
Everyone knows Booking.com for its flight and hotel-booking features, but it’s also a great place to look for homestays. They have a massive selection of stays, including both shared places and whole houses and apartments. You’re also supported by Booking.com’s check-in/out features and customer service, which can often mean less interaction with the host (if that’s something you’re looking for).
Marriott Bonvoy
For Loyalty Members
Marriott Homes and Villas
If you’re looking to stay in the Marriott ecosystem, either to earn/redeem points or for a familiar level of quality, here’s some good news: The hotel giant also does homes and villas. The Marriott Homes and Villas website is easy to use and has some curated lists to help find the right stay. Marriott Homes and Villas’ collection of 183,000+ rentals generally skews more luxe, but you’ll find options in many price ranges.
Hotels.com
Despite its name, Hotels.com isn’t just hotels. The site also has a ton of vacation homes, apartments, and even luxury villas. Just like the two options above, the support of such a big-name brand is also a plus.
