If you were an early adopter of Airbnb, you can probably remember what it was like to stay in the spare room of someone’s place, make new friends, authentic travel memories and save some serious dollars on your accommodation costs.
Well, that’s exactly what Airbnb’s latest launch is wanting to do. Getting back to the roots of where it all started, Airbnb’s brand new "Rooms" offering combines all the nostalgia, affordability, and brilliance of Airbnb’s original concept with a whole host of new and improved features to make the experience for both guests and hosts more seamless and enjoyable.
Being able to easily find budget-friendly accommodation is a huge part of what makes travel possible for a lot of us, especially in a post-covid, cost-of-living-crisis landscape where so many of us are desperate to get out and about, see the world, connect with others and enjoy new experiences, without breaking the bank.
The newly-launched "Rooms" category will make it easier to find private and low-cost rooms, with more than 80% of listings falling under $100 NZD a night. This personalised approach is all about getting back to the core of the share economy concept Airbnb was founded on, which is all about bringing people together and having awesome and authentic local experiences.
The updated listing features look to carefully foster this concept by providing more details about your host through the introduction of a “host passport”. Covering everything from a photo of your host ratings and reviews, along with additional security features such as whether a host has confirmed their identity, email address and phone number with Airbnb.
On top of this hosts can also share additional personal information such as interests, pets, unique aspects of their home and even what type of food they like to cook. Hosts can also offer everything from cooked breakfasts to city tours as part of their listing to give you a true live-like-a-local experience.
Alongside all of the usual information, each Airbnb Rooms listing will also contain information about where the private bedroom has a lock, what bathroom facilities are like (shared or private) and details about anyone else in the home.
Keen to lock in some affordable accommodation for your next trip? Check out some seriously great Rooms around Aotearoa at Airbnb below, or peruse the many thousands of Rooms now available all around the world here.
Cosy Private Mountain Stable Suite With Ensuite
Mount Creighton, Otago
Take to the mountains and stay at this stable suite surrounded by deer farms, waterways and stunning views (main article image above). With your own entrance to your standalone villa with a queen bed and an ensuite, this is a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring the hustle and bustle of Queenstown. Rooms from $125/night.
Parisian Double Room By Champs Elysées
Paris, France
Have your Emily in Paris moment at this beautiful Paris apartment in the heart of the famous Champs Elysées. Your host is Happy, a British-Belgian ex-pat who loves meeting new people from all around the world. You'll also be joined by cats Nero and Felix, and Milo the King Charles cavalier spaniel. Rooms from $90/night. Book your stay here.
Gorgeous Room On A Boutique Vineyard
Waipara, Canterbury
Take your local getaway up a notch with this gorg Mediterranean-style vineyard stay. With your own queen bedroom, and access to their expansive commercial kitchen, you can sip wine by the outdoor fireplace, or dine alfresco amongst the vines. Daryl and Alison, your sheep-farming, Pinot Noir-making hosts will make you feel right at home, showing you around their slice of paradise and recommending all the best local spots. Rooms from $100/night.
Room With A View
Lake Okareka, Bay Of Plenty
Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Rotorua, this idyllic rural setting is a great spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. Overlooking beautiful Okareka Lake, the bright king bedroom opens into a light-filled conservatory for ultimate relaxation. Room from $115/night.
Magical Mangawhai Stay
Mangawhai, Northland
A great family-friendly stay in Magical Mangawhai, accommodating different numbers. This coastal gem has beaut sea views and has a guest lounge, BBQ, spa, playground for the kiddies, and even table tennis. Rooms from $65/night.
Peaceful 1-Bedroom Villa
Ubud, Bali
Overlooking lush jungle and right in the middle of rice paddies, this luxe villa in Ubud is a total dream. Your room features all the luxuries of a five-star hotel with a king-sized bed, bathtub, mini bar, and air-con. Your host Andy is a hospitality pro and can organise rafting, cycling, hiking, and more ahead of your trip. Rooms from $392/night. Book here.
Akaroa Coastal Cottage
Akaroa, Canterbury
Overlooking the Akaroa Harbour, this queen room has your own private entrance, bathroom, and private use of a shared outdoor spa pool. Not to mention your host Oliver runs wildlife cruises on Southern Wanderer at discounted rates for guests- score! Do note that it’s a 70-metre bush walk with steps down to the cottage from where you park your car. Rooms from $135/night.
Bird's Delight - Sunny Garden Room
Richmond, Tasman
Bask in the serenity of Bird’s Delight, a sunny private space with your own entrance to the garden full of beautiful native birds and trees. The perfect place to rest up and relax while exploring the Abel Tasman, the Great Taste Cycle Trail or Nelson Lakes. The room comes with a queen bed and your own bathroom, shower and toilet. Rooms from $85/ night.
Image credit: Airbnb.
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