I am a planner. Usually when I travel I plan things out, and book accommodations months in advance. For the trip I recently took to the US I left a lot more up in the air, and tried to look beyond just booking hostels and hotels like I usually do. That’s why I was excited when I won a Roomorama voucher through a contest that Beers and Beans held. It was the motivation I needed to try something a little different for my trip.
I decided to use my Roomorama prize in New Orleans. I looked on the website and a property by City Park caught my eye. The house looked charming, colourful, and kind of cool. Being that it was in a local area, close to City Park I thought it would give me a different perspective on New Orleans than staying at a hotel or being in the French Quarter would.
After a few emails between Roomorama and myself I put down payment to reserve a stay for two nights. The Roomorama website was easy to use. I was able to contact the host to confirm when I’d be coming, and to get directions to the property. Payment was done through Paypal. I liked getting a confirmation code to present to the host. It put my mind at ease knowing everything had gone through correctly.
I think my friends and family may have questioned my sanity when I revealed I’d be staying in someone’s home. I had no reservations, and when I finally arrived and met my host any trace of doubt I may have had was wiped away. Regrettably I only got to talk to my host briefly, but he was very friendly, and he gave me a great local recommendation for dinner Parkway Tavern and Bakery. I felt extremely safe and at ease staying there, and as someone who travels mostly on her own safety is always my number one concern.
The room I was in was a great size. There was a tv with Netflix. On the desk there was information about local restaurants, and different things to do in New Orleans, which I thought was great. The bed in my room was big and comfy. Even for budget travelers it’s important to “splurge” every now and then. After sharing a room with several people for the last few days having my own room was a welcome change.
The bedroom I stayed in.
I absolutely loved the decor of the home. I’m not one to get all down in the dumps if someone’s drapery isn’t my style. This home was unique however; because the owner is an artist and so there were a lot of really cool and unique art pieces throughout the home. I particularly loved the kitchen wall by the table, which was painted blue and hand several painted metal fish sculptures. It looked like being under the sea. Even in my room there were a lot of interesting pieces and sculptures which added to house’s charm.
The dining room mural.
I’m glad I took the plunge and decided to try Roomorama. It was easy to use, and staying in a local neighbourhood, and in someone’s home gave me a different experience in New Orleans than what I would have had at a hostel or a hotel.
Although part of my stay was covered by Roomoroma and by the contest voucher that I won, all opinions in this post are my own.
We’re fans of Roomorama, having just recently stayed in a fantastic loft in the East Village, NYC. We’re looking forward to trying out their accommodations in other locations.
Staying with Roomorama in NYC sounds like a great experience. I found it gave me a more local perspective that staying in a hotel, something I’d love to get in New York.
I’ve used a couple of the different house/room renting/sharing websites and had all good experiences! It’s great to hear about another one
New Orleans looks awesome too!
Thanks for the comment. It’s always great to recommend a good travel resource to another traveler.
Good to know you found something on Roomorama in New Orleans. My dad is thinking of having his 60th birthday there this year and I was considering booking through them.
I’d highly recommend the Roomorama place I booked. I’m sure your dad will have a great birthday in New Orleans.
Thanks for sharing this. I’ve been wondering about Roomarama, but as a woman who often travels alone, it seemed risky to me. But it sounds like you had a nice experience. I’m going to re-think this and try it sometime in the future. Thanks!
Glad I could help out. I’ve always been hesitant to try out something like Roomorama, but I’m glad I took the plunge and did it. The best advice I have when travelling alone is follow your instincts. If you get somewhere and something doesn’t feel right you can always back out.
I want to visit New Orleans…NOW!!!
So do I. Once was definitely not enough for New Orleans.