10 coolest Airbnbs in the world that actually fit your budget
PUBLISHED ONJune 15, 2019 12:00 PMByRachel G
Have you ever wondered why peer-to-peer accommodation networks like Airbnb are gaining so much traction these days? More travellers, especially millennials, are opting to stay with the locals instead of traditional hotels. Affordability of private homes aside, staying in an Airbnb actually allows travellers to connect with local communities much more easily. And you will probably get more bang for your buck if you manage to find one really swanky place for a truly enviable holiday.
To save you the hassle, we've done research for you and found the 10 coolest Airbnbs in the world that cost less than $150 per person per night. In fact, almost all cost below $100 per person a night!
Whether it is a couple getaway, adventure trip, BFF retreat or the annual family vacation, we've got you covered. Read on to discover the perfect Airbnbs to make your wanderlust dreams come true.
FOR AN INTIMATE GETAWAY FOR TWO
Made from bamboo and other natural materials, this 2-storey eco dome in Ubud blends well into the idyllic terraced rice fields landscape. The eco-friendly architecture is specially designed for the nature lover seeking respite from the hectic city life.
Relax and unwind in the cool eco dome without a care in the world. Take your time to smell the refreshing air and gaze at the soothing greenery. In the day, look out for villagers harvesting on the nearby rice fields.
The dome is equally as stunning on the inside. Located on the second level, the bedroom is fitted with such a comfortable California King size bed that you just wish to sleep in the whole day. After dark, huddle up with your partner and look through the skylight window for a romantic star-gazing night.
The best part of this cool retreat? Bali is just a short flight from Singapore, so it's a great choice for a short but sweet getaway!
- Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
- Sleeps: 2 guests
- Price: ~$51 per person per night
2. ROMANTIC CABANA ON A QUIET FARM
Planning for an unforgettable vacation on the other side of the world? How about checking into this charming bamboo cabana located in the Andean mountains of Colombia in South America?
The cabana is situated on a 5-acre organic farm, where aloe vera and various tropical fruits and flowers are grown. Experience the enchanting countryside with a stay here. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the amazing nature. Liven up with the chirpy symphony by birds in the morning and crickets at night.
Special mention must be made to the outdoor shower in the garden. Enjoy an invigorating shower in the beautiful landscape, and rest assured the surrounding rainforest plants are strategically placed for your utmost privacy.
A delicious Colombian breakfast is included in the stay, specially prepared by the wonderful host Yudy. She uses fresh ingredients in her cooking, of which most are from their own farm. So make sure you don't miss it! The amazing hosts will ensure you feel right at home and enjoy everything Armenia has to offer!
- Location: Armenia, Quindio, Colombia
- Sleeps: 2 guests
- Price: ~$39 per person per night
3. COSY GEODESIC DOME HOUSE IN A TRANQUIL SMALL VILLAGE
Take the less-travelled tourist path and book a stay in the cosy geodesic dome house in Facinas village. Located in southern Spain, Facinas is a small beautiful village in mountainous area and is close to the coast. This stunning Airbnb is your place for a perfect escape if you want to get away from the crowds.
This unique Airbnb is set on the edge of a national park so expect spectacular views over the picturesque landscape. Feel free to relax and laze in the sun as there's plenty of space within the property to wander about.
Take a one-of-a-kind shower in the unique outdoor facility overlooking the valley. Appreciate the inspiring beauty of this practically unblemished part of the Spanish peninsula as you relish the experience. If you do not feel comfortable unclothed outdoors, there's an indoor shower too.
The geodesic dome house is a real steal for those who wish to embrace the wilderness and unwind. Great place for a silent retreat to escape and disconnect.
- Location: Facinas, Andalucia, Spain
- Sleeps: 3 guests
- Price: ~$41 per person per night (minimum 2 nights)
4. OFF-GRID ADOBE DOME IN THE DESERT
It's not everyday you get to visit the desert, much less experience off-the-grid (OTG) living in an isolated yet easily accessible setting. So when a rare opportunity comes by in southwestern Texas in Big Bend National Park, you gotta seize it!
The dome is an earthen structure with an adobe barrier to provide shelter from heat, cold, wind and rain. Step inside to find a dome bed that accommodates 2 people comfortably, as well as a functional kitchenette with oven, stove and fridge. Everything runs on solar power here, which gels well with the OTG principle of being self-sufficient.
City dwellers so used to relying on public utilities in life may feel uneasy staying in such a remote and solar-powered dome with limited water supply. But rest assured you'll get extremely rewarding views of the beautiful horizon. Marvel at the magnificent sunrises and sunsets here that will be etched in your memory forever.
- Location: Terlingua, Texas, USA
- Sleeps: 3 guests
- Price: ~$70 per person per night
FOR A UNIQUE GROUP VACATION OF 4 TO 6 PEOPLE
Built in the late 1970s, Igloo by the Sea is an iconic landmark along the Trinity Beach Esplanade in Queensland. You don't need to fly all the way to Greenland or northern Canada to stay in an igloo covered with thick snow. In fact, staying in a beautiful igloo by the pristine beach sounds like an awesome vacation for those who are used to warmer climates!
Besides being steps away from the beach, Igloo by the Sea is also centrally located, making it easy to travel to other parts of Cairns. Coupled with the property's atypical design and impeccable hospitality, it is little wonder why the quirky cottage is listed as one of the best Airbnb accommodations in Australia.
In addition, its interior is clean and stylish, and packed with all the modern conveniences you need. Of course, at less than $100 a night, this is certainly value for money for an unforgettable vacation!
- Location: Trinity Beach, Queensland, Australia
- Sleeps: 4 guests
- Price: ~$26 per person per night
Itching to try dry-cabin living so as to go back to the basics and cut your living expenses? Check out the authentic Alaskan cabin nestled in the woods of Fairbanks. Read on if you are adventurous enough for a truly Alaskan experience.
The quaint town is known for its extreme climate, never-ending winters and midnight sun summers. So sit back and relax with an awesome stay at the cosy log cabin. Besides the possibilities of coming up close with Alaskan wildlife, you may be lucky enough to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis during your adventures too!
To complete a true-blue Alaskan experience, you gotta try the outdoor enclosed shower on the side deck. There's also a fully stocked kitchen and an outdoor fire-pit for a fun BBQ in chilly weather. Sample dry-cabin living with a dreamy stay here!
- Location: Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Sleeps: 4 guests
- Price: ~$43 per person per night
7. LADY BLUEBIRD CONVERTED BUS
You may have travelled around in a caravan somewhere, but have you ever wondered how it would be like to live in a 320-square-foot (29.7-square-metre) bus? Here's your opportunity to book one when visiting Portland.
Get onboard the converted bus to find a fairly spacious living space, including a sitting area with a sleeper sofa, dining area and kitchenette, bathroom and queen-sized bed.
In addition to private access to the funky bus, you are free to enjoy the peaceful outdoor space adjacent to the bus. Bikes and helmets are also provided at a small fee for you to experience the quaint biking neighbourhoods at leisure. Definitely a fun place to stay in Portland!
- Location: Portland, Oregon, USA
- Sleeps: 4 guests
- Price: ~$49 per person per night
Visiting castles is part and parcel of travelling in Europe. But staying in one? Surely an opportunity not to miss if you visit Ireland.
The majestic medieval castle was built several centuries ago in the 1400s. However, it was restored in the last decade to its original state using modern technologies and traditional materials to make the castle as close to its original structure as possible. Be transported back to over 6 centuries ago in the living space of a solid stone castle. Seek some warmth in the living room with heated floors and a huge fireplace.
There are plenty of interesting parts in the castle, so take your time to explore and mingle with the friendly hosts. Do head up to the turret for some memorable shots to remember your stay with. This is an authentic Irish castle experience that you won't regret booking.
- Location: Galway, Ireland
- Sleeps: 4
- Price: ~$70 per person per night
The cabana floripa is a funky unorthodox apartment built largely with recycled materials in southern Brazil. The apartment appears to be floating in the mountains because of the glass bottled walls and the incredible glass art creates some pretty magical vibes.
Every part of the apartment is visually appealing, thanks to the host making great efforts over the past two decades. Furthermore, the eco-friendly structure befits the rustic landscape setting it is in. Book the cabana floripa if recycling, nature and art is your way of life!
- Location: Florianopolis, Brazil
- Sleeps: 5 guests
- Price: ~$19 per person per night (minimum 2 nights)
10. SNOW IGLOO
Last but not least, this one's likely in your bucket list, particularly if you are game for freezing sub-zero winters. Imagine sleeping in an authentic snow igloo with real beds inside. Add the Northern Lights shining on you, if you are lucky.
Explore the wilderness of alluring Lapland in Finland in this exceptional snow igloo created by a small family run business during winter.
Thanks to the wonderful host Antti, warm sleeping bags are provided in the igloo. However, do bring your own thermal layers, warm hat, socks and gloves as the chill may be too overwhelming. The price of a stay in such a unique igloo may be higher than the above Airbnbs, but it is certainly an once-in-a-lifetime experience you won't regret!
- Location: Pelkosenniemi, Finland
- Sleeps: 6 guests
- Price: ~$121 per person per night
This article was first published in Shopback.