Asking the right questions: What questions should guests ask hosts when they rent an Airbnb?
Witten By James Tarrant
One of the most positive things you can do before you go on vacation is to have a plan of action. Take the time to figure out about the destination you are travelling to, book accommodations ahead of time, arrange transportation, get travel insurance, check travel advisories, pack smart, secure your home, have all your essential documentation, have an itinerary, and, most importantly, notify your bank so they don’t freeze your account for suspicious activity.
If these tasks seem like a lot of work, they are not when you consider all the additional items you could add to your itinerary list if you stay at an Airbnb.
No, this information is not meant to scare you but to prepare you and ensure your stay at an Airbnb is everything it should be.
Why are people afraid to ask questions when renting an Airbnb? Is it because they are unfamiliar with the platform they use when they book and don’t know what to ask? Are they overwhelmed by the choices they have in front of them? When renting an Airbnb compared to staying at a hotel while on vacation, the differences are like night and day.
Here is a checklist you should be aware of when booking an Airbnb.
Read the listing carefully: Ensure you understand what the rental includes. Check for items like Wi-fi and air conditioning or if it has a kitchen.
Check the location: Ensure the rental is in a convenient location. Look at the proximity to public transportation, attractions and grocery stores.
Read Reviews: Past guest reviews can hold insightful information about the rental and host. Pay attention to the positive and negative comments.
Communicate with the host: Don’t hesitate to ask any questions you might have about the rental.
Understand the cancellation policy: Airbnb hosts can set their cancellation policies. Make sure you understand the terms before you book.
Check-in - Check-out: Understand the check-in and check-out procedures. Some hosts might have their own requirements.
Safety: Check that the listing has safety features like smoke detectors and a first aid kit.
The most essential item to add to your itinerary list if you are staying at an Airbnb in Newfoundland and Labrador is what time of year seasonally is a good time to book.
One thing to keep in mind is our weather. We are an island, after all. We have cool, wet spring weather, mild summers and chilly winters. Typically, May to August are our best seasons, depending on what you like to do. It’s great if you want to birdwatch. If you enjoy music festivals, whale boat tours, historical walking trails, and warmer weather, booking a stay from June to August might be a better option. Winter is not usually our busy season, but if you like to snowshoe or experience a traditional Newfoundland boil-up, a winter visit may be more up your alley.
The point is it’s never a bad idea to ask questions. The people at Home Base NL would be a great place to start. They are a step in the right direction for Airbnbs on the Rock.
