I live from place to place and have stayed in many different homes. Finding something suitable can be an effortless and comfortable experience. However, in certain countries and specific seasons, it can be challenging. Where to look if you are looking for mid or long-term accommodation? What housing options are available on the market? And, what other things to consider? I will share my experiences regarding South East Asia, Portugal, and Spain, as I have been nomadic in these areas.
Where to look for mid or long-term accommodation?
Booking platforms: A booking platform is an online website that connects house owners and tenants. One of the biggest and most well-known platforms is Airbnb. You will book accommodation, and in return, you pay a (hidden) fee.
Available platforms are:
- Airbnb: I have experienced Airbnb as a responsible party. Also, when things didn’t work out during my travels, I still had the option to book something last minute or receive support from their customer service. I’m pleased to have this booking option available, while it is also good to be aware that rates differ significantly per country and season. This is the main online platform I use for booking in South East Asia. I experienced substantially higher rates in Spain and Portugal, so I prefer to use it for daily/ weekly bookings. I received a tip from a friend to message accommodations with a monthly budget. When the place is available on short notice, they might be happy with the offer and give you a better price for an extended stay. This opportunity is primarily available during the low season. Even though the costs vary significantly per region and season, this platform should not be missed for long-term or last-minute bookings for a nomad.
- Spotahome: Spotahome is a booking platform active in European cities for mid- to long-term rental. After booking, I heard that this platform doesn’t have a good reputation. In general, I have a positive experience with them and any mistakes made are covert by an alternative booking and customer support. Please note that the platform can be strict on rules, like whether overnight guests are allowed or additional booking fees.
- Uniplaces: Uniplaces is a similar booking platform I haven’t used. The general stories I hear about it are positive.
- HousingAnywhere: I have an excellent experience with this platform because it is possible to communicate with the host or owner before booking. This allows some communication beforehand and the possibility to see if it connects and to answer additional questions. The customer support is also great as a follow-up and for further questions.
Facebook groups: On Facebook, you can find many groups to find communities for specific subjects like, for example, digital nomads, expats, accommodation, etc. These groups have messages about house rentals coming by also, and please be careful with whom you are dealing with. Although the experiences with these groups can be good, some risks are involved too. For example, I almost got scammed on the Facebook marketplace, so if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Housing site for Spain & Portugal: websites like Idealista.com, Idealista.pt, and fotocasa.es offer contract rental in Spain and Portugal. Mainly, the properties are rented out by a booking agency, and specific rental requirements will apply. Did you know that the owner pays the agency fee in Portugal?
What living options are available for nomads?
T1, T2, T3, or higher. These are common terms for accommodation in Portugal. It simply means the number of bedrooms. In Spain, a multi-bedroom is very common and sometimes not that much more expensive than a studio for example.
A studio apartment: A studio apartment is typical for nomad living, meaning the whole living area is one room.
Room in a shared apartment.
Room in co-living. A co-living is living with and meeting other people. It can be created explicitly for nomads to live together.
Hotelroom made suitable for nomads. This is especially common in South East Asia, where monthly stays are accommodated with a fridge and sometimes cooking material. These deals are mostly made locally and depend on the season.
Any other things to consider?
Timing: Consider the tourist season, student season, festivals, and weather season. It can be extremely challenging to find accommodation when arriving during a high season or popular event.
Make an offline deal directly with the accommodation: I have found it an easy way to get along in south-east Asia. Especially during the low season when many choices are available. It can be an incredible experience to stay in beautiful accommodations during these times.
Accommodation costs: ensure you know whether the extra costs, like electricity and gas, are included or excluded.
Working with a real estate agency? Please check the online reviews!
Hopefully, this will help you find a suitable living as a nomad. Do you have any suggestions, questions, or feedback? Or would you like to share your experience? The comments are open.
Thank you for reading.
Warmly,
Anique
