Travelers can look forward to record amounts of online vacation rentals this winter in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean. Whilst online rentals offer tourists plenty of advantages, such as unique locations, plenty of flexibility, and cheaper prices, they also have some downsides that many travelers are unaware of. In this article, we’ll tell you the top 5 things to keep in mind before booking.
The online vacation rental market is booming across Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean as travelers flock to one of the world’s top seaside destinations. Travelers can find countless – sometimes irresistible – rentals on platforms like Airbnb, which provide visitors a chance to live like a local. According to officials, there are more than 35,000 online rentals this year, a record number, with average prices ranging from $44 to $99 per night.
1) Use A Trusted Platform
Not all online vacation rentals can be securely booked. Many travelers have fallen victim to online scams that promise a lot but deliver very little. Visitors are encouraged to use secure platforms such as Airbnb, which offer around-the-clock customer service and troubleshooting.
Travelers should avoid informal arrangements, which lack legal guarantees and are more often than not sold by fraudsters. It is especially advisable to avoid social networks such as Facebook and Instagram.
2) Check Reviews
Reading reviews is one of the best things travelers can do before booking an online rental. By comparing different reviews, travelers can find the perfect online rental that suits their needs. Whether it be the friendliness of the landlord or aspects like cleanliness and safety, reviews can give rich insight into the overall experience travelers can expect from a certain vacation rental.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and opt for rentals that have at least 50 reviews, with most reviews being favorable. Always check for bad reviews, and look for consistency in the good ones.
3) It’s All About The Location
Travelers should carefully consider what type of environment they want to stay in before booking an online vacation rental. Factors such as safety, convenience, and access to public transport options are all critical when considering the overall location. It’s a good idea to check sources like Google Maps to gain an understanding of nearby attractions and how long it takes to reach places like the beach.
Take Cancun, for example – a mid-sized city of some 900,000 and home to several different districts. Most tourists would prefer to stay close to the city’s resort district, which is far from downtown Cancun, where most vacation rentals can be found. Although further from the seaside, a taxi ride to Playa El Nino from some parts of downtown Cancun can take as little as 5 minutes.
4) Be Careful With Hidden Fees
Many properties promise an amazing experience for travelers thanks to impressive amenities, such as outdoor pools or lavish interior decor. However, travelers should look out for hidden fees, which usually include things like a cleaning fee, late check-in or check-out fee, as well as covering the cost of broken objects or furniture. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises after your next Cancun vacation.
5) Understand Guest Rules
Although online vacation rentals offer plenty of flexibility to guests, travelers should familiarize themselves with the property’s rules. Airbnb has come under fire previously for failing to stem late-night partying and excessive noise levels, which can tarnish the quality of life for other residents.
Before booking an online vacation rental, make sure to understand what is expected of tenants, which usually includes rules like respecting quiet hours (usually from 10 P.M. to 7 A.M.) and avoiding smoking.