Accommodation
4 tips for picking the perfect host on Airbnb

When it comes to booking accommodation on Airbnb, all the hard part is done for you. The only real mystery is the temperament of your host. Although you can see their profile and photographs and engage each other in conversation beforehand, you may want to know more about who’s home you’re staying in (whether they will be there or not).
To ensure you choose the right host for you, look at these key signs before you make your decision.
1. Are they verified?
The first thing to do is rule out any chance of suspicious users. Airbnb won’t verify people without the proper identification, so if they aren’t verified, avoid them. If they are, you are good to go.
2. Do they have good photos?
It may surprise you to know that Airbnb actually offers free, professional photography of their space to all hosts. If they have taken the time to arrange this, it shows they take their role as a host more seriously than someone who takes them on their camera phone. It also means that someone from Airbnb has visited their home, and given a stamp of approval.
3. Read their reviews
Previous guests will not only rate the property/ host on a number of stars, but will write insightful comments that will let you know what to expect, and if the experience is right for you. For example, they may praise your potential host for “never being around” because they are always working. However, you may be looking for a guide around the city.
4. Have they been someone’s guest before?
A host’s Airbnb profile will be the same as their traveller’s profile, so you can see what countries they have visited, where they have stayed and what kind of guest they are. This will tell you a lot about their character, personality, and what it would be like to live with them.
Have you had a memorable experience with a sensational Airbnb host to share with the community? Let us know in the comments below.
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