Whether you’re on a tight budget or splurging on an expensive vacation, there are myriad ways for you to find the perfect spot to lay your head…without having to settle for a roach motel.
The best part? You can plan the whole thing online. Quick and easy. Isn’t the Internet a beautiful thing?
Hostels
For those who don’t have a whole lot of cash to spend (or would prefer to spend their cash on other things), hostels definitely make the best option. Plus even if you’re not into sharing a 30-person co-ed dorm room, many hostels often have private rooms (or rooms that share bathrooms instead of a communal toilet).
Hostels are also the perfect way to meet other travelers, especially backpackers.
Hotels
If you prefer the comforts of your own private hotel room, we totally understand. Clean slippers, a quiet night’s rest, and someone to make your bed each day? Yes, please!
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing can be intimidating for first-time surfers. Here’s how it works: you register for a profile online, it gets verified by the folks at Couchsurfing.org, you offer up your couch/spare room to travelers or seek out your own accommodations…FREE!
Housesitting
Housesitting is the perfect solution for people who like to wander without a strict schedule and prefer the method of “slow travel” – staying in a place longer than just a few days. Basically, you live in someone else’s household for a certain amount of time, running the show and taking care of business.
This is particularly ideal for people who have pets/farm animals that require special attention while they’re away. With the right housesitter, they get peace of mind about their home.
WWOOFing
WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is an organization that pairs travelers with folks who need help around the farm. You volunteer a few hours per day with the chores (e.g. picking olives in Greece, planting vegetables in the Czech Republic, etc.) in exchange for free accommodations and meals.
Why do travelers turn to WWOOF again and again? You will truly earn unique insight into your new country. You will be living and working with a family native to the place, and you will be contributing hands-on to their society. You can’t get much better than that!
