Choosing where to stay can make or break a trip, yet travellers frequently pick the wrong accommodation for their specific needs.
While hotels continue to dominate global travel recovery for their convenience and predictable service, short-term rentals and guesthouses offer levels of space and local charm that large properties simply can't match.
Before you book your next getaway, understanding the trade-offs of each option is the key to ensuring your stay feels like a break, rather than a hassle.
I am unapologetically a hotel person. Give me a comfortable hotel room, someone to make my bed, breakfast waiting downstairs and the option of a spa treatment without having to leave the property, and I am happy.
For me, part of the joy of being on holiday is not having to do anything. I do not want to think about cleaning, making the bed or figuring out where breakfast is coming from.
I like the convenience, service and sense of security that come with staying in a hotel.
But my friend feels very differently. She would choose a cosy guesthouse or Airbnb over a hotel any day.
She likes having a space that feels more like home, the privacy of a house or apartment, and the freedom to make herself comfortable.
And that is the thing about accommodation: there is no universal right or wrong choice. The best option depends on your budget, destination, travel companions and the type of holiday you want.
Why choose a hotel?
Hotels appeal to travellers who value convenience, predictable standards and having everything they need under one roof.
Location is a major advantage. Hotels are often close to city centres, business districts, airports and popular attractions, helping travellers save time and potentially reduce transport costs.
Then there is the service. Reception desks, concierge services, room service and housekeeping make travelling easier, particularly for those who do not want to worry about everyday chores while on holiday.
Many hotels also offer restaurants, swimming pools, gyms and spas, meaning guests can enjoy most of what they need without leaving the property.
Security features such as controlled access, security staff and in-room safes can also provide peace of mind.
For travellers who want to switch off completely, a hotel can be difficult to beat.
Why choose an Airbnb?
Airbnb and other short-term rentals appeal to travellers looking for space, privacy and a home-away-from-home experience.
A house or apartment can be particularly useful for families and groups, offering multiple bedrooms, living areas, kitchens and sometimes gardens or private outdoor spaces.
Having a kitchen can also help travellers save money by preparing some meals themselves. For larger groups or longer stays, splitting the cost of an entire property can make it more affordable per person.
Another attraction is variety. Holiday rentals can range from city apartments and beach houses to unique properties in residential neighbourhoods.
The trade-off is that guests may have fewer services than they would in a hotel. Daily housekeeping, room service and 24-hour reception are not always available.
Why choose a guesthouse?
Guesthouses offer a more intimate alternative to larger hotels and can be ideal for travellers who value personal service and a quieter atmosphere.
Because they generally accommodate fewer guests, hosts can often provide a more personal experience, including recommendations for restaurants, attractions and lesser-known local spots.
Guesthouses can also offer good value, with some including breakfast or offering meals at an additional cost.
Their smaller size and residential settings may also appeal to travellers looking to escape busy tourist areas.
What are South Africans choosing?
South Africa’s accommodation sector has continued to recover strongly since the pandemic, with hotels playing an important role in the tourism industry’s recovery.
Statistics South Africa recorded a hotel occupancy rate of 61.6% in November 2025, the highest November figure in six years and close to the 64.4% recorded in November 2019.
Globally, hotels also remain popular. According to SiteMinder, 62% of travellers prefer traditional hotels to short-term rentals.
However, accommodation preferences ultimately depend on the trip.
A business traveller may prefer a centrally located hotel with breakfast, Wi-Fi and room service.
A family spending a week at the coast may prefer a house with a kitchen and multiple bedrooms.
A couple looking for a quiet weekend may opt for a cosy guesthouse.
So, which accommodation is right for you?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Choose a hotel if you value service, convenience, housekeeping, security and on-site facilities.
Choose an Airbnb or holiday rental if you prioritise space, privacy, independence and a home-like environment.
Choose a guesthouse if you want personal service, quiet, local recommendations and potentially better value.
Ultimately, the best accommodation is the one that matches the way you want to travel.
For some, a holiday means having someone else make the bed and serve breakfast. For others, it means having a key to a home away from home.
The real question is not which is better. It is: what kind of traveller are you?
zamandosi.cele@nationalmg.co.za