Hotels have their perks. Room service? Check. Fancy toiletries? Check. But when it comes to outdoor space, they often fall short. Sure, they might have a pool, but is it shared by a hundred other guests? Is there a place to escape the crowds and have a private moment under the stars? Probably not.
That’s where your Airbnb comes in. You have the unique opportunity to create a backyard that’s not just better than a hotel’s—it’s downright magical. Here’s how:
1. Think Boutique, Not Bland.
Hotels are all about uniformity. Your backyard can be anything but. Embrace your unique style and create a space that reflects your personality and the local flavor. Think vintage garden party, Moroccan oasis, or bohemian jungle retreat.
2. Ditch the Plastic and Embrace the Plush.
Hotel pool furniture is about as comfy as a dentist’s chair. Invest in high-quality outdoor furniture that your guests will actually want to sink into. Think plush cushions, chaise lounges that scream “nap time,” and hammocks strung between palm trees.
3. Light It Up!
Hotels bathe their outdoor spaces in harsh, sterile lighting. You can do better. String up fairy lights for a whimsical touch, add lanterns for a touch of Moroccan magic, or invest in solar-powered path lights to guide guests safely to the fire pit.
4. Amp Up the Ambiance.
Hotels? Crickets. Your backyard? A symphony of nature’s sounds. Add a tinkling water feature, a wind chime that plays a sweet melody, or even a record player with a stack of chill vinyls. Your guests will thank you for the sensory escape.
5. It’s All in the Details.
Hotels hand out those flimsy towels you wouldn’t use to wash your car. You can do better. Stock your outdoor space with plush towels, pool floats, and even fun yard games like giant Jenga or cornhole. These little touches make a big difference.
6. Get Creative with the Culinary.
Hotels? Vending machine cookies. Your Airbnb? A backyard feast for the senses. Set up a DIY s’mores bar with gourmet marshmallows and different types of chocolate. Leave a basket of fresh herbs for guests to snip and add to their meals. Or surprise them with a basket of local fruits and cheeses for an afternoon picnic.
7. Don’t Forget the Technology.
Hotels? Patchy Wi-Fi and a TV with only basic channels. Your Airbnb? A tech oasis. Install a waterproof Bluetooth speaker so guests can jam out poolside. Set up a projector and screen for movie nights under the stars. Offer guests the use of tablets preloaded with local recommendations and maps.
8. Personalize It!
Hotels? One-size-fits-all approach. Your Airbnb? An extension of your warm hospitality. Leave handwritten welcome notes with local tips. Offer guests the use of your telescope for stargazing. Stock the fridge with their favorite drinks. These gestures go a long way in creating a truly memorable experience.
9. Embrace the Unexpected.
Hotels? Predictable. Your Airbnb? Full of surprises. Tuck a hammock away in a hidden corner for a quiet afternoon read. Plant a secret garden bursting with fragrant blooms. Set up a telescope for stargazing. Hide little treasures throughout the yard for guests to discover.
10. Remember, It’s All About the Experience.
Hotels are just places to stay. Your Airbnb can be a place to create memories. Think beyond the furniture and the fancy gadgets. Focus on creating an atmosphere that makes your guests feel pampered, relaxed, and connected to nature.
With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your Airbnb backyard into a haven that blows away even the fanciest hotels. So go forth, unleash your inner landscape designer, and create a space that’s not just better than a hotel—it’s unforgettable.
I hope this blog post inspires you to create an Airbnb backyard that’s the stuff of dreams. Remember, it’s all about the details, the unexpected touches, and most importantly, the feeling you create for your guests.