5 Places to Sleep That Aren’t Hotels

Hotels. Love them or hate them they’re reliable. You almost always know what you’re getting and no matter where you go you’re sure to find one. But what about something a little more unique? Sure some hotels are more special than others but not everyone wants a cookie cutter experience. For them, I offer these options!

Apartment Rentals

I’m a big big fan of apartment rentals. We’ve stayed in apartments in London, Berlin and Barcelona and enjoyed the experience of having a home and more space. I love having a kitchen at my disposal as well. I’m also looking into apartment options in Singapore for my trip later this year. But, I also realize many people are intimidated by the thought of renting an apartment. My best advice for your first rental is find an apartment in a central location to where you’d like to be and do a little outreach with the rental company or person to see how much help they can provide you when you arrive. Having more assistance on your first rental will help you ease into apartment renting.

Riads

Riads are unique to Morocco and if you’re coming to visit you MUST stay in a riad. It truly is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed. Riads are single family houses that have been converted to a space for multiple guests. They are each unique in style, design, and layout but all have a central feature of an open interior courtyard. You will have the privacy of a hotel but also the comforts of home at your fingertips.

Cabin in the Woods

I grew up in the woods so a cabin is not something I ever considered special. It wasn’t until my husband first came to the US and had this experience that I saw just how magical it could be. There’s something about the solitude and natural beauty that is unique. Check out this gorgeous cabin in the woods of Tennessee from StreetTrotter.

A Hostel

I get it. Hostels have a really bad wrap – and some of them for good reason. I never backpacked in my college years so I was really reluctant to book my first hostel stay. But, I can honestly say I started off on the right foot! A hostel is what you make of it. There are some that truly are cheap places to just sleep for the night, while others offer a reasonable price with a few more luxuries. We’ve stayed in a few now and I certainly prefer boutique/luxury hostels with private rooms.

A Tent

..but not just any tent! I’ve gone sleep-on-the-ground tent camping and I’ve gone glamping. It’s probably no big surprise glamping is my preferred way to go. I think everyone should sleep in a tent at least once in their life. It’s a great super budget option if you’re traveling and can bring a tent. But if you’d rather spend the night under the stars in a little more comfort opt for a luxury tent like this one Katherine from Travel the World shared in California.

So the next time you’re looking for a place to stay and want something a little different from a hotel – check out one of these unique sleeps instead!