If you’re a keen traveler and you still haven’t heard of Airbnb, this post may just change your life…or at the very least, help you save a ton of money on kick-ass accommodation in the future.
The online Airbnb community was founded in 2008. Since then, its members have enjoyed both advertising their own spaces for short-term holiday lets and renting other desirable homes around the globe for a slice of the price of a hotel. Now in its seventh year, word has spread to the furthest corners of the world and a portfolio of over a million breathtaking properties are now available to rent. Here, we’ve trawled endless pages to find the coolest five.
1. The Seashell House, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
This place is beyond awesome. Built by architect Eduardo Ocampo, The Seashell House offers a very unique pit stop that sleeps four people comfortably. Aside from its idiosyncratic design, the little house promises a dreamy stay with tons of privacy – excluding passing tourists keen to snap the kooky exterior – and chill factor, thanks to the private pool and lounge area.
2. ElquiDomos Astronomic Hotel, Coquimbo, Chile
If you’re searching for a truly cosmic trip, this astronomic hotel is an epic choice. Pitch up in a fully furnished, geodesic igloo and stargaze from the comfort of your own bed. Or if you’re itching to get out, join in on one of the regular astronomic tours or nighttime horse rides. The perfect place for a romantic getaway, circa 2015.
3. Aegean Island Villa, Athens, Greece
If you’ve been secretly dreaming of living out your own Peter Pan fantasy, listen up. This Greek villa can totally play the Neverland to you and your band of lost boys. This pad offers five bedrooms spread throughout three buildings, a salt water pool, a bamboo-surrounded pergola, a Turkish steam room and even a resident parrot, all nestled on the coast of south Evvia, Greek’s second largest island. Complete with a friendly host of staff, we can’t think of a better place to revisit your boyhood.
4. Augill Castle, Cumbria, England
Four-poster beds, roll top baths, open fireplaces…this magnifficent castle has everything you need to live out an olde English dream. Built in 1841 as a Victorian gentleman’s folly, prepare for some serious folly of your own. You can rent the entire castle for a maximum of 30 people and the live-in family and staff are sure to meet your every need.
Ok, how about a stint on your own private island? This listing offers the paradise island of Nanuku as an entire rental. Situated in the midst of the South Pacific, this 10-acre island is all white sands and coconut trees. There are two beautifully basic bures (Fijian-style homes) for you and your companions to sleep in before exploring the breathtaking reef and fishing for supper. A local guide and housekeeper will be on hand to show you the ropes.
