I ' ve been using it for a few years now . We used AirBnB exclusively for three weeks when we travelled around Croatia for three weeks . The cost is variable depending on what you want in a place to stay . I have never spent more than $ 50 CDN a night with AirBnB . We ' ve stayed in a room in people ' s houses and had entire apartmentscondos to ourselves . It ' s the best way to meet the people of the land and learn their language and culture . Like staying in hotel , AirBnB pretty much ensures that everybody leaves a comment about the host and their experience . Now for a new listing that isn ' t helpful , but it helped us in picking and choosing the places we wanted to stay . I ' ve had great experiences for the most part . Typical problems are arranging a key for late night arrivals and one place we stayed , let ' s just say their housekeeping skills weren ' t up to par . Communication with your host before you commit to staying with them is key . If they don ' t respond often or well , probably best to use another host . We also have used hotwire for ten years . Have never once had a bad experience not knowing what hotel I ' m staying in . Great for last mintue bookings too , pick an area and boom , cheap night ' s stayFinally , before you sign up for AirBnB , if you know anybody else who uses it , have them invite you . They offer referal bonuses and a sign up credit when you do that