AirBnB isn’t for me anymore. The app has strayed so far from its original idea that it feels like they’ve lost their way. What began as a friendly platform for locals to rent out their homes short-term has morphed into a massive, impersonal rental machine filled with sparsely furnished properties.
I understand this might upset some people, especially AirBnB hosts or travelers with fond memories of their stays. But for me, a few bad experiences have ruined it. I know there are still great hosts out there, and some travelers will always prefer AirBnB over hotels. Those hosts will continue to attract guests and keep their calendars full.
As a travel editor, I need to share why the platform has been a nightmare for me and why I won’t use it again. Over the past eight years, I’ve traveled full-time, spending over 200 nights a year in hotels. Many of those nights were in AirBnB properties, and almost every time, it was a subpar experience. I’ve decided I won’t tolerate it anymore. The app has led to lost money, frustrations, safety issues, and uncomfortable nights. I’m done with sacrificing my comfort.
I’ve deleted the app and committed to staying in hotels, and here’s why:
**Too Many Nightmares**
Last summer, despite my protests, my friends insisted on booking an AirBnB in Ibiza with only one rating. My usual criteria are at least 10 ratings and a score of 4.90 or higher. This place had a 4.70 with one rating. We checked in, took some videos, had a swim, and unpacked. It was okay, but for the price, it was underwhelming. The place was clearly a new development with missing panels, exposed wiring, and unfinished edges, but I tried to enjoy the week with my friends.
On the second day, it started raining heavily, and water began pouring out of the light sockets. Thankfully, the power went out just before, so we weren’t electrocuted. The house was flooded, the A/C and lights stopped working, and the fridge broke down, ruining all our food. The host was no help, leaving us stranded in a flooded house with no power. We stayed for two more days like squatters until we found other arrangements. Everything in my suitcase was wet, and I was eating crackers and rice cakes, feeling like I was in hell.
This was just one example. Other experiences include being locked out of a laundry room for 14 hours, a bedroom in Istanbul with a bed only three feet long, and a villa in Bali with constant jackhammering from unannounced construction. When problems arise at a rental, it can be a huge hassle to fix them, especially if you arrive late at night. At a hotel, management can resolve issues instantly.
**I Don’t Work Here**
Many rental properties have so many rules that it feels like you’re working for them. “Wash and dry all dishes,” “strip the sheets and put them in the washing machine,” “take out the trash.” I don’t work here. I paid to stay here, and the rest is up to the host. When I travel for work, it needs to be seamless. When I travel for leisure, I’m too exhausted to do chores.
**The Novelty Has Vanished**
In the early days, you stayed in someone’s lived-in home with personal touches. Now, most rentals are poorly designed sets with basic, uncomfortable furniture. The cupboards are empty except for a few plates and bowls, and maybe one coffee pod. Once large rental companies took over, it became just business. Hotels may have sterile rooms, but it’s expected. It’s disappointing to arrive at a “home” for the week and find it minimally stocked and cold.
**The Bar Is So Low**
Most AirBnBs are semi-furnished with the bare minimum effort. Bedrooms often look like dorm rooms with basic bed frames and mattresses. Why travel and pay so much to be uncomfortable? I’m over the bare minimum.
**Are There Even Savings Anymore?**
When I first used the app, it was cheaper and worth the hiccups. Now, prices have soared, often matching hotels due to third-party management costs. There may still be savings when renting a room in someone’s house, but I don’t have experience with that.
**The App Has Gotten Some Pushback From Locals**
AirBnB has faced negative press for gentrifying neighborhoods and pushing out locals. Some cities have enacted strict bylaws to limit rentals. Many people think their money goes to local families, but a study showed that almost a third of hosts are companies with large property portfolios. Hotels haven’t faced this pushback as they are usually outside rural zones and have been in business for decades.
**Hotels Have The Best Zip Codes**
Hotels are always in prime locations, whether in airports, shopping centers, or historic city centers. They offer tranquil retreats in the countryside or action-packed spots in the city. Historic hotels often have the best addresses, and that’s the vibe I’m looking for.
**Amenities and Convenience**
Lock yourself out? Go to the front desk for a new key. Forgot your toothbrush? Call and have one brought to your room. Starving after a late flight? Order room service. Hotels offer pools, gyms, daily housekeeping, and more. I use hotel conveniences to the max, from package deliveries to concierge services. In rentals, it can take hours for a host to reply. I want a holistic, therapeutic, and luxurious travel experience, and hotels provide that.
**I Feel Much Safer in Hotels**
While creepy situations can happen anywhere, they are more likely in unstaffed rentals. Hidden cameras and peepholes are bone-chilling. Hotels have more security, emergency protocols, and on-call staff, sometimes including medical assistance. Low-budget hotels in sketchy areas can be unsafe, but moderate to high-end hotels offer better security.
**Hotels are Trained in Hospitality**
Hotel staff, from management to entry-level, usually have extensive hospitality training. While I support entrepreneurial ventures, I don’t want to risk my vacation on untrained hosts. Certain hotel brands consistently exceed my expectations. I choose hotels with precision for a relaxing, luxurious, and comfortable stay, knowing the staff is trained to serve guests.
**Hotels Are Listening**
Hotels are offering more perks due to traveler demand. They add amenities like aromatherapy and workout equipment, improve wifi, offer healthier room service options, and provide longer-stay deals. Even airport and highway hotels now offer suites with workspaces and kitchens. Hotels have adapted to the changing market, and those that haven’t have likely closed.
To sum it up, if I can’t find a hotel to suit my needs or budget, I’m not going. As an experienced traveler, I’m done with sacrificing and playing roulette with my money. While everyone can travel how they see fit, I’m a hotel person from now on.