How to Travel to the World’s Most Expensive Destinations on a Budget


Is the cost of a hotel stay stopping you from taking your dream luxury vacation? If so, home rental sites such as Airbnb, a website which offers unique places to stay in over 190 countries, has made it possible for many travelers to take their trip of a lifetime. By renting a vacation home, you can save money on accommodations and splurge on some of the best experiences the city has to offer. Here’s a look at some of the most expensive travel destinations around the world offering Airbnb deals.

[Related: 7 Insider Secrets for Booking Cheap Airfare]

Paris, France

Most hotels rooms in Paris are extremely small (especially considering US standards) and typically come with a high price tag. So Airbnb apartments can offer way more space and amenities than most hotels including free Internet, kitchen, washer-dryer, cable TV, and more.

Airbnb offers over 1,000 rentals, in various locations throughout Paris. Depending on your preference for renting a private room, studio, or an entire apartment, you can pay anywhere from $92 to $1,000+/per night.

Insider Tip: Check out Trip Advisor’s Top Things to Do in Paris.  Some of the best areas to stay in Paris includes, Le Marais (3rd/4th), St. Germain (6th) and the Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement). 

Maui, Hawaii

Rated by US News World and Report as the #1 luxury destination, Maui offers a taste of everything from breathtaking beaches and wildlife to fascinating history and culture. With the cost per day for a trip for two to Hawaii averaging about $793 for just food and lodging, according to Triple AAA as of 2008, Airbnb can help you save a few dollars with vacation home rentals. For as little as $89.00/per night you can wake up gazing at the shores of Maui.

Insider Tip: If you’re looking to save a few bucks, the off season occurs between spring (mid-Apr to mid-June) and fall (Sept to mid-Dec). During that time, the islands are less crowded, according to Frommers.

New York City

There’s no doubt, New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But if you’re willing to be flexible on location, and do a little research on free or low cost events  happening in and around the city, you can experience some of New York’s most exclusive hot spots.

Although Airbnb has been the subject of several investigations around illegal apartment listings throughout the city, renters are still using the home rental site to book their dream vacation to the Big Apple. Your average costs will vary depending on the neighborhood, but the site expertly lays out the areas by preference and neighborhood.

Insider tip: During NYC Restaurant week, you can experience a 3-course fine dining menu for $25/Lunch and $38/dinner. 

Singapore

As the world’s most expensive city, Singapore offers some of the best eating, shopping, and entertainment hot spots. But take note; hotel stays are expensive. In fact, Singapore’s average hotel room rates (at $235.80/night) are the third highest in Asia-Pacific, according to an HRS survey, a global hotel solutions provider. Enter Airbnb to save you some money on lodging. With over 1,000 rentals available, you can rent a very nice room, condo, or an entire home at an average of $97/night.

Insider tip: You can eat relatively cheap at hawker stalls, which offer cheap and delicious food on the same level as a five-star restaurant.

Napa Valley

As home to some of the best wineries in the world, visitors can expect to pay a hefty price tag to eat, shop, and explore Napa Valley vineyards. Airbnb offers everything from flats at $60/night to a private cottage suite for $235/night with a view of the vineyards.

Insider tip: The best time to visit the vineyards is during September- October, which is also considered  “crush time” when grapes are harvested.

Have you used Airbnb to visit a luxury travel destination? If so, share your experiences or tips with travelers below.

By renting a vacation home, you can save money on accommodations and splurge on some of the best experiences the city has to offer. 


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