There are several alternatives for lodging while traveling abroad. Websites such as Hotels.com, AlltheRooms, HotelTonight, and LastMinuteTravel are useful for finding good prices. Besides hotels, there are hostels, Airbnbs/Vrbos, guest houses, and “coaching surfing” (for the especially budget-minded). Note that hostels are a great alternative if you’re traveling solo.
In selecting lodging, I prioritize safety, convenience, and price over amenities. Web-based reviews offer a good starting point for evaluating the pros and cons of places you discover. I prefer places within an easy walk of restaurants and at least some of the sites I plan to visit. Google Maps provides a tool for measuring walking distances and determining what’s nearby.
There are a few basic amenities that I look for in the places I book. The most obvious are a private bathroom, air-conditioning, free Internet, and a bed that I don’t have to share with my travel companion. Some hotels include breakfast in the room price. Be aware that many hotels may not have an elevator. The U.S. State Department publishes guidelines about choosing safe accommodations (for more information, click here).
Be sure to bring a printed copy of all lodging reservations with you. In the event your plans change, pay attention to the last day when you can cancel a reservation. Finally, be aware that your lodging provider may require you to pay a hotel or tourist tax.
