Booking.com reveals stand-out destinations for alternative accommodation stays around the world
If you’re part of the 37% of global travelers who want to book a stay in an alternative accommodation type in 2019, but you’re still trying to decide where to travel to next or which destination to explore during your upcoming vacation, look no further. Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travelers to the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has identified five stand-out cities that have proven increasingly popular for alternative stays over the last year. While Naples, Ubud, Gdansk, Porto and Marrakesh are all great locations in their own right, they also offer some great alternative accommodation options for travelers wanting to experience these destinations in a more authentic, adventurous and often more affordable way.
Naples, Italy
For travelers who don’t want to choose between adventure and historic tranquility on their next vacation, the city of Naples is the perfect solution. Located in the breathtaking south of Italy, it is known for its volcanic energy, with still-active Mount Vesuvius just around the corner. Once travelers have settled into their home away from home, the opportunities for exploration are endless – from feeling like royalty during a visit of Palazzo Reale, located just opposite the Famous Piazza del Plebiscito, to the bustling shopping venues and vibrant restaurant scene, Naples will never cease to amaze the curious traveler.
Where to stay: Bed and Breakfast B & B da Mimì, positioned a short walk from the historic center of Naples, is a popular choice among Booking.com travelers due to its scenic and central location. Its tastefully decorated rooms ooze with a unique mix of modern and romantic features, making this accommodation the perfect place to stay for couples.
Ubud, Indonesia
Ubud, the cultural capital of the Indonesian island of Bali, provides never ending variation. Known for its traditional crafts and cultural dances as well as the surrounding rainforest, Ubud will mesmerize even the most well-traveled explorer. You will find an abundance of rice paddies, Hindu temples and shrines, some of Bali’s most famous landscapes and landmarks.
Where to stay: Villas are one of the accommodation types that will see the highest increase in demand in 2019, with almost one third of global travelers (30%)* planning to stay in one of these in the coming year. Get ahead of the crowd by booking a stay at The Kalangan. After a day exploring, travelers can reflect in the property’s peaceful garden or have any hiking-related pains massaged away in a nearby spa.
Gdańsk, Poland
Perfect for the art, history and culture loving traveler – the vibrant and colorful port city of Gdansk is the ideal location for a weekend trip. Located on the Baltic coast of Poland, the city’s most notable attractions, Long Market and Neptune Fountain, are a must visit. Yet, the city has so much more to offer and something new to discover at every turn.
Where to stay: Apartments are one of the accommodation types that almost one third (30%)* of global travelers plan to book in 2019, so follow this trend and with a stay at Sweet Suite in the Old Town district of Gdańsk. Featuring beautiful interior design throughout, this chic accommodation is within walking distance to all of the city’s main attractions.
Porto, Portugal
Oftentimes overshadowed by the country’s world-famous capital, the coastal city of Porto in the northwest of Portugal is not to be missed. Famous for its stately bridges and port wine production, the city oozes with charisma. Stroll through the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district, along the narrow-cobbled streets winding past merchants’ houses, have a glass of port in one of the countless cafes and let the city’s charm cast its spell on you.
Where to stay: Living like a local is key for almost half (49%)** of global travelers, who believe that staying in a home-type accommodation lets them see areas of a city or parts of a country that they wouldn't have previously explored. Trait House, surrounded by authentic restaurants and bars, has retained its original 19th century facade while simultaneously oozing with modern decor, providing guests with the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s hidden gems.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh, located in western Morocco, is the home of some of the world’s most exquisite mosques, palaces and lush gardens. Let the city’s unique atmosphere entice you as you stroll through the Majorelle Garden, with its exotic plants and fountains. Following this, a trip to the city’s majestic souk, where traditional textiles, jewelry and pottery are being sold, should be high on every traveler’s bucket list.
Where to stay: Booking.com’s research unveiled that almost a third of global travelers (31%)** prefer unique and quirky accommodations while on vacation and amongst the fastest growing categories are: luxury tents, capsule pods and riads. So if a combination of luxury, elegance and culture sounds like the perfect combination, then look no further than Riad Timel. Located a short walk from Djemaa El Fna Square, this accommodation is the perfect place to stay to absorb the local culture and relax after a long day of shopping and exploring.
NOTES TO EDITORS
The above list of cities was compiled by looking at the destinations where the share of bookings in the alternative accommodation segment was highest, from amongst the 100 most popular destinations in the past year (December 2017 - December 2018) on Booking.com.