Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Travel

The Manual’s Top 5 Airbnb’s

By

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.

Recommended Videos

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

Related

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.

5. Nanuku Island, Fiji

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.

Editors’ Recommendations

Jodie Kharas
Jodie Kharas
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Jodie Kharas is a style, art and culture writer who lives in London. She has contributed to the online platforms of POP…
10 must-know solo travel tips for a stress-free adventure
How to make the most of your solo travel experience
person rolling luggage through airport

I’ll never forget my first solo trip. I couldn’t help but wonder, would I get lonely? Would I feel safe? But as soon as I stepped out into the world on my own, I realized how freeing solo travel could be. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, embrace spontaneity, and fully immerse yourself in new experiences. That said, traveling by yourself also comes with its challenges. There’s a learning curve, but it’s worth it. If you’re planning your next vacation, here are the solo travel tips I wish someone had shared with me before I packed my bags.
Solo travel tips

Solo travel doesn't have to be a daunting prospect, just follow this advice to make your trip the best it can be.
Research your destination thoroughly
Before you set off, do your homework. Dive into the culture, customs, and quirks of your destination. Learn phrases in the local language like "hello," "thank you," and "help" – mastering the local slang might just earn you a few smiles! You should also check travel advisories and scour reviews from other travelers. You’ll want to know which areas are safe, the best ways to get around, and if you’re traveling internationally, where your country’s embassy is (just in case).
Plan, but not too much
Have a bucket list of fun experiences you want to do? Great – but don’t pack your schedule tighter than your suitcase. Leave space for the unexpected, like a random street fair, a hidden cafe, or a spontaneous invite to explore a local spot. Flexibility can be where the magic happens in solo travel.
Pack light and smart
When packing, stick to versatile clothing, bring only the essentials, and use packing cubes to keep things organized. And don’t forget the essentials – a power bank, universal adapter, first aid kit, and digital and physical copies of your important documents.
Stay connected
Before you go, ensure you have a reliable way to stay connected. This might mean purchasing a local SIM card, renting a portable Wi-Fi device, or arranging for an international data plan. Staying connected helps you navigate unfamiliar areas, keep in touch with loved ones, and access important information on the go. Apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and currency converters can be lifesavers during your travels. Don’t forget to download offline maps and guides in case you lose internet access.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust
While solo travel is about independence, it’s always smart to let someone know your plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information with someone you trust. A quick “I’m safe and having a blast!” text can ease your loved ones’ nerves. Apps like Find My or WhatsApp location sharing can add an extra layer of safety.
Choose accommodations wisely
Your accommodation can make or break your trip. Look for highly rated places (especially those recommended by other solo travelers). Hostels and guesthouses are perfect for meeting people, while private Airbnb spots can offer quiet comfort.
Own the solo dining experience 
Eating alone? Bring a book, journal, or your phone to keep busy, or sit at the bar and strike up a chat. Joining food tours or cooking classes is another fun way to combine good eats with good company.
Stay safe
If you’re going to listen to one of these solo travel tips, pick this one! Safety should always be a top priority when you're on your own. Keep your head on a swivel, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your gut. If something feels off, it might just be. Consider keeping a photocopy of your passport in a separate bag and storing emergency cash in multiple locations. It’s also a good idea to have the contact information for local emergency services saved on your phone.
Make friends (but set boundaries)
Traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone 24/7. Join group tours, attend events, or use apps like Meetup to connect with locals and other travelers. Remember, always trust your gut when meeting new people, and don’t feel pressured to share personal details if you’re uncomfortable. 

Read more
After years of waiting, these European cities will finally be connected by train
Dreaming of visiting both Paris and Milan this year?
Inside of a building with brown walls, Milan, Italy

Are you planning a trip to both Milan and Paris this year? Your travel plans just got a major boost. Trenitalia France has announced the long-awaited return of its Paris-Milan train service, which will resume operations on April 1, 2025. The direct route, which passes through Turin, will once again connect the French and Italian cities, making it easier than ever to experience both iconic cities in one trip.

The service was suspended after a landslide near Maurienne in the French Alps on August 27, 2023, caused significant damage to the route. Now, after extensive repairs and months of anticipation, bookings are officially open, signaling the long-awaited revival of this beloved connection.
The details of the Paris-Milan train

Read more
Qantas made these changes to its frequent flyer program
Qantas makes changes to Frequent Flyer program
qantas frequent flyer program 787

 

Qantas has announced multiple changes to its Frequent Flyer program, with enhanced benefits across the board. Members can soon access additional premium cabin reward seats and accrue even more reward points on each flight. As part of the update, Qantas will raise the price of Classic Reward seats, which haven’t changed in six years.
Qantas will introduce the changes over the next 12 months

Read more