.png){kind=small}
When planning a trip abroad, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to stay. While vacation rentals like Airbnb have been popular, many destinations are starting to ban them, and for good reason. If you're looking for a seamless, enjoyable, and responsible travel experience, choosing a hotel is usually the way to go.
Hotels Support the Local Economy
One of the biggest benefits of staying in a hotel is that your money stays within the destination. Many short-term rentals are often owned by investors from other countries. Hotels employ locals as housekeepers, front desk workers, porters, servers, and chefs. Your stay directly supports the local community, ensuring that tourism benefits the people who call your destination home.
Hotels: A More Sustainable Way to Travel
Hotels are often more sustainable than vacation rentals. Many have eco-friendly initiatives, such as energy-efficient lighting, water conservation programs, local bath products, and locally sourced food. Plus, they don’t contribute to the severe housing shortages seen in major tourist destinations. Short-term rentals drive up prices and push out local residents. In turn, local businesses have a hard time finding employees who can afford to live nearby.
The Crackdown on Vacation Rentals
Many cities around the world are limiting or outright banning short-term rentals to protect their communities. Some of the destinations taking action are:
Florence, Italy – Banned new short-term rentals in its historic center to preserve housing for locals.
Barcelona, Spain – Tightened regulations and increased fines for illegal vacation rentals.
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Restricted rentals in some neighborhoods to control overcrowding.
New York City, USA – Enforced strict rules, requiring short-term rental hosts to be present during a stay.
Paris, France – Imposed limits on rental days per year and increased enforcement.
In these cities, and many more, hotels remain the best and most hassle-free option for travelers.
More Comfort, More Convenience
Hotels offer a level of service and security that vacation rentals simply can't match. Need fresh towels? Housekeeping will be knocking at your door within minutes. Hungry? Most hotels offer room service or have a restaurant on-site. Recommendations from a local? Hotel employees have you covered. Plus, there’s no stress about last-minute cancellations, lockbox confusion, or hidden cleaning fees. Hotels are also reviewed often and honestly, whereas rentals may pick and choose which reviews can be viewed.
In the past, I have personally experienced arriving to a filthy vacation rental, and the rental company did nothing about it.
The Exception
There are a handful of vacation rental companies and travel agent suppliers that personally visit and approve vacation rentals. They guarantee the photos you see online are accurate, and that you get what you pay for. I also try to go a step further and see if the owner lives nearby, ensuring I support the local community.
Book Smarter, Travel Better
By choosing hotels, you’re not only treating yourself to a better travel experience but also contributing to the local economy and supporting responsible tourism. Next time you plan a trip, consider the long-term impact of your stay and book a hotel or verified vacation rental. You'll be making a choice that benefits both you and the destination you're visiting.
Are you ready to plan your next getaway? Whether you decide to stay in a hotel or a responsible vacation rental, let Destination Known Travel curate the perfect itinerary for you!
Comments