Hotels and inns are great, but they’re not the only option when traveling in the South. A number of house rental companies operate in this region with beachfront condos, mountain cabins, cozy bungalows, and even tiny homes. It’s a nice way of feeling like a local, even for a short time, with plenty of space for groups and amenities like full kitchens.
Why Apartment Rentals?
Renting a house or apartment in your destination allows you greater flexibility and more local experience. You can choose to stay in a room of someone’s house or rent the entire space. While hotels and hostels have their own benefits, apartment rentals are a unique experience and may be better suited for larger groups and those on a budget.
If you’re interested in a particular neighborhood, you’re more likely to find an apartment for rent than a hotel in some areas. Properties will let you know what is included, such as breakfast, toiletries, linens, and other amenities.
Is It Safe?
Apartment rentals can be just as safe as staying in any other form of accommodation. While there are some negative things that occasionally happen, you should research your host and contact them before showing up at their house.
Make sure that the door to your bedroom has a lock. You should have access to a key or door code so that you don’t have to rely on someone else’s schedule. And if you’re feeling uncomfortable, leave immediately.
Where Do I Start?
Every apartment listing site has different properties on offer and some specialize in certain areas. Also, keep in mind that certain cities and neighborhoods don’t permit short term rentals.
Vacation and Apartment Rental Companies
Airbnb
Airbnb is likely the most well-known and has many properties in New Orleans, Charleston, Savannah, Atlanta, Nashville, and other major cities. It’s where you’ll find trendy accommodations in popular neighborhoods. This is probably the company we book with most often because of the referral credits you can earn for your stays.
FlipKey
Flipkey operates mostly in coastal areas of Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina but also has properties in Alabama, Arkansas, Washington DC, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee. There’s a wide range in styles from cabins to apartments and everything in between.
TripAdvisor Rentals
TripAdvisor is a vacation-planning giant with attraction and restaurant reviews, but they also offer vacation rentals. They especially have ones in big tourist destinations like the Orlando area or the Smokies.
VRBO
Vacation Rentals By Owner specializes in beach properties throughout the South. They’re the best websites to use if you’re planning a vacation to the Florida beaches or South Carolina coast.
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