Photo courtesy of 4-caribbean-villas.com
If you’re in town for a short business trip or just looking for a place to crash for the night on your way to your final destination, a cramped yet affordable hotel room may be the way to go. If you’re planning a long stay or would prefer a space to spread out a bit, a villa or cottage might be a better option. Fortunately, thanks to sites such as FlipKey and HomeAway it’s now easier than ever to book your stay.
In a recent article for USA TODAY, writer Candyce Stapen shared her top vacation rental marketplaces and list of tips for renting a home away from home. If you want to browse a large inventory of properties and enjoy the benefit of free insurance, Stapen recommends booking through FlipKey which offers condos, cabins, houses, and villas. If you’re looking for easy to find deals and would prefer not to book online, VacationRentals is the site for you.
Have an unlimited budget (or just expensive taste), Stapen recommends booking your trip through Villas & Apartments Abroad or WIMCO Villas for ultra-luxury listings that include extra amenities including 24/7 concierge service. Other sites to consider include HomeAway and VRBO.
Looking to get away without getting ripped off? Here are a few of Stapen’s suggestions:
- Book through a reputable site or agency.
- Understand any booking or rental fees.
- Get rental dates, fees, and rules in writing.
- Know the payment schedule and cancellation policy.
- Be sure to have your host’s contact information in case of an emergency.
- When paying online, be sure the site is protected or use a service such as PayPal.
Considering a weekend getaway or something a little closer to home? Visit www.rentittoday.com and browse listings of vacation homes and condos across the U.S.
