The Airbnb Experience in the City of Love: To be honest, I am not a ‘staycation’ type of person, though I would love to go on one (and dying to). Have always been frugal and often resort to staying at home than in expensive abodes. However, as I grow older, it dawned on me that life isn’t always about savings. The pandemic taught me that life is short and fragile, and we need to make the most of everything as long as we still can. So they say, ‘YOLO’, you only live once.
First off, I didn’t know there was Airbnb in Iloilo. Now, I know there is. Airbnb enlists properties that can be rented for a specific period of time. It allows you to live the ‘condo life’. It also offers properties in unique settings, like residences and out-of-town properties. By surprise, Airbnb is cheaper and offers more.
Airbnb, an online marketplace for accommodations (primary homestays for vacation rentals and tourism activities), is a community built on sharing and serves as a platform in bridging the gap between hosts and guests. Here, the Iloilo Bloggers Society tests the waters in having the ultimate Airbnb experience.
“Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.” – excerpts from the Airbnb website.
By far, Airbnb has 5.6 million listings worldwide and is available in 100k+ cities and towns (in 220+ countries and regions). To date, there are four million hosts with a USD 9.6k average annual earnings per host.
The Penthouse Unit by Superhost Mel is beautiful. Have always been torn between choosing a condominium or a house in a subdivision (as my home in the future). The unit made me realize that there’s actually more to condominiums than it being a small space. Condominiums place you at the center of business and establishments, whilst fully secured by 24/7 building security.
Penthouse Unit by Superhost Mel at La Fayette Park Square in Iloilo Business Park. The unit is an executive-style abode offering an unobstructed view of the Megaworld Boulevard. The condo offers an open floor plan with two bedrooms, kitchen with oven, refrigerator, two-way intercom camera panel, water heater, 55-inch Smart TV, prepaid wireless internet, and two private balconies. Amenities in the building include two relaxing pools, a jacuzzi, garden, fitness gym, and an indoor/outdoor playhouse for kids.
The Penthouse Unit gives you a view of the Iloilo Business Park – and a feel of being in one of Iloilo’s most luxurious properties. The experience was exhilarating. Moreover, Superhost Mel made sure that we are satisfied with our stay. Fellow blogger Zach even received a message from the host telling us not to hesitate to send her a message, for us to have a more enjoyable stay at her property.
Is this something, I would consider in the future? Yes, in fact, I actually have my eyes set on a property to book just in time for the holidays. Grateful for the experience and for the opportunity to be introduced to Airbnb.
Here are reviews of the listing:
“Ms. Mel’s place is a perfect spot for people who wants staycation or vacation be a comfortable and relaxing one. View is nice, two minutes’ walk to Marketplace, Festive Mall and other restaurants. Very accessible to all! Will surely recommend this place. The place is clean and neat and very spacious perfect for a big family. Thanks, Ms. Mel and to Ms. Dyan, they are very accommodating and friendly,” a review by Jolichill.
“The place was lovely! Very tidy and smells good as well. Both Ms. Mel and Ms. Dyan were attentive to all our inquiries and needs. We also got a free six liter water from Nature’s Spring. Thank you so much maam! Very smooth transaction with Ma’am Mel. The security personnel of Lafayette were also cheerful and were willing to help us in any way they can. Overall stay was amazing. Till next time!” a review by Rye Leigh Jane.
“Thank you so much for being so accommodating. We had a great time during our stay. The staff was extremely helpful in meeting our needs. Personnel was courteous, friendly, and approachable. The room is spotless and well-kept. Then there were the employees, who were all pleasant and helpful. The owner also responds quickly to emails with empathy and care. I can attest that this location is truly ideal; the place was convenient to all landmarks as I appreciate the strong WiFi connection. To top it all, it was an excellent choice of stay with comfortable accommodations and amenities. We’ll surely book again!” a review by Generose.
For more information about this listing, visit https://tinyurl.com/mr358tjr . For more information about listings in Iloilo City, visit www.airbnb.com/philippines/stays.