We are living in the age of disruption. Our phones, TVs, cars, taxis, retail markets — it’s all being changed by the Internet.
Add hotels to that list of disruption. The current king of shaking up the lodging market is Airbnb, the San Francisco-based company that connects people who want to rent a room or house for a few nights with those who are willing to rent.
Just like other disruptions, Airbnb wasn’t taken seriously at first. People were skeptical about renting a room for a night in the home of a complete stranger. Or renting your entire home to someone you don’t know.
Forty million guests later, Airbnb is hitting its stride. Homes and condos are available just about anywhere you want to travel, and usually at good rates.
In Charlotte alone, there are more than 300 listings, and new ones are added weekly.
Why use Airbnb locally?
There are several reasons to use Airbnb locally. First, if you have family (say, for the holidays) or friends (golf weekend, maybe?) coming to town and they need lodging without having to settle for a 300-square-foot, privacy-killing hotel room, Airbnb is a great alternative.
Then there are those living in the suburbs who want to experience Charlotte hotspots like Uptown, South End, Plaza-Midwood or Lake Norman. Rent from Airbnb and for one night, you can live it up.
For this article, I wanted to pick a few places for rent in the Charlotte area. Most homes and rooms are available near Uptown. However, I found places all over the area. (Costs do not include occupancy tax, cleaning fee and service fee which can add $50 and up to the price.)
2BR/2BA on Light Rail *Best View*
Location: South End
What caught my eye: As the title says, the view. But it’s also nicely decorated, looks clean and is in a choice spot for a night on the town.
User review: “They had everything from towels and snacks for us; definitely a 5 star experience.”
Cost: $325 a night (minumum of two nights)
Southend Penthouse Suite
Location: South End
What caught my attention: Again, the view from South End is very nice. It also has 22 reviews, almost all of which gave the experience 5 stars in every category. Well designed and maintained.
Sample review: “The view was amazing! We rented the room for our honeymoon and it couldn’t have been more perfect!”
Cost: $265 per night
Uptown Charm/Entire Bungalow
Location: Uptown
What caught my eye: Good price for an entire home near uptown. It also has 83 reviews, almost all of which were raving.
Sample review: “We absolutely loved Nina’s cozy bungalow. We found everything that one could ask for which made it feel so much like home….from dishes, to towels, to air conditioning to outdoor dining tables and chairs”
Cost: $140 per night
LOCATION! Luxury, Modern, Beauty!
Location: Uptown
What caught my attention: Cool design, clean, great amenities and a view that’s amazing. It’s also in the heart of downtown.
Sample review: “I couldn’t have had a better experience! The pictures of Derek’s place just don’t do it justice. He was extremely accommodating even when I requested to stay there only a few days before I’d be in town on business.”
Cost: $150 per night (minimum of two nights)
Uptown Charlotte – Furnished 1×1
Location: Uptown
What caught my attention: If it’s uptown, it’s all about the view, and this place delivers. It’s also a sophisticated layout and design.
Sample review: “The host made the apartment very welcoming by setting a table for two and leaving a bottle of wine and snacks waiting. It was a beautiful apartment with stunning views of downtown Charlotte.”
Cost: $129 per night (three night minimum)
3B/3.5b Comfy Condo near Uptown
Location: Elizabeth
What caught my attention: It’s a sizable condo, walking distance to Plaza Midwood, clean, and great reviews.
Sample Review: “I had a great Thanksgiving weekend! The place looks just like the pictures and was ready to go. There are lots of little amenities that make your stay better like laundry detergent and snacks.”
Cost: $195 per night (three night minimum)
Magnolia Bee Home in Elizabeth
Location: Elizabeth
What caught my attention: Great name, location within walking distance of Plaza Midwood, and an entire vintage home at a great price.
Sample review: “The house was adorable! The furniture is eclectic, and the environment very welcoming. Baxter has thought of everything, and gave excellent suggestions for places to go around town! The perfect spot for a girls weekend!”
Cost: $150 per night
The Shed at Lake Norman
Location: Lake Norman
What caught my attention: A cozy shack on an island in the middle of Lake Norman. Great price, dock, and tons of 5 star reviews.
Sample review: “What a beautiful spot on the lake! The room and the host Ketti were both wonderful. The shed is fantastic-beautifully decorated and stocked with necessities. Ketti is truly an amazing host.”
Cost: $90 per night
