Tag: Term

  • 6 Affordable European Countries Where Travelers Can Stay Long Term

    6 Affordable European Countries Where Travelers Can Stay Long Term

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    These European countries allow American travelers to stay long-term without applying for a visa or residency.

    Perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads, these destinations are a great place to base yourself in Europe – not to mention they’re all extremely affordable!

    Excluded from this list are countries in the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area consists of 27 countries in Europe (23 of which are also part of the European Union.)

    Woman overlooking mountains in Albania, european

    Americans are only allowed to spend 90 days out of every 180 days in the Schengen Area without a visa.

    The countries below are all non-Schengen countries, so, for long-term travelers, you can spend 90 days in Schengen countries and then bounce to any of these countries for the next 90 days while you wait for your time in the Schengen Area to “reset.”

    Similarly, digital nomads who are looking for a base where they can spend several months to a year will enjoy these affordable European countries:

    Hot air balloons in Cappadocia Turkey, european

    1. Albania

    Albania is one of the best European countries where Americans can stay long-term for up to one year without a visa.

    It’s an underrated country that has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, along with a cool capital city, charming small towns, stunning nature, friendly people, and affordable prices.

    Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

    Boat in the water in Saranda Albania, european

    2. Georgia

    Although it straddles the space between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Georgia is another country included on this list because Americans can stay here for up to one year without a visa.

    Georgia is a growing digital nomad hotspot because of its fast Internet, low cost of living, delicious food, and great quality of life. There is plenty to explore in Georgia.

    History lovers will enjoy the country’s unique and fascinating history and blend of cultures, while those who love the great outdoors will be blown away by Georgia’s natural beauty.

    Woman in Tbilisi Georgia, european

    3. Montenegro

    Montenegro allows American tourists to stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa, and it’s not part of the Schengen Area like neighboring Croatia, which just joined in January 2023.

    This small Balkan nation packs a big punch. Montenegro is a bucket list-worthy destination in Europe thanks to its dramatic scenery, beautiful Adriatic beaches, enchanting historic towns, and national parks.

    Picturesque Perat In Kotor Bay, Montenegro, Balkans

    4. Romania

    Although Romania is part of the European Union (the only country on this list that is), it’s not yet part of the Schengen Area.

    This means that travelers can stay in Romania for up to 90 days without a visa, and it won’t count against their time in the Schengen Area.

    Romania is an affordable, beautiful destination in Europe. The vibrant capital city Bucharest, quaint small towns like Brasov, ancient fortresses like Bran Castle (which is said to have inspired Dracula), and stunning scenery are just a few reasons to visit Romania.

    Peles castle Sinaia in autumn season, Transylvania, Romania protected by Unesco World Heritage Site

    5. Turkey

    Americans can stay for up to 90 days in Turkey, another European country that is on the East-West divide.

    Turkey’s Istanbul is a must-visit destination, along with the beaches of Antalya. This country is one of the most affordable in Europe for a sailing trip or beach vacation.

    Cappadocia is another bucket list spot in Turkey, known for its otherworldly landscapes and hot air balloon rides.

    Young Female Tourist Pictured With Her Backpack As She Stands On Galata Bridge Looking At The Historical Peninsula Of Istanbul, Turkyie, Turkey, Eurasia, Middle East, Eastern Europe

    6. Serbia

    Finally, on this list, Serbia is another one of the best countries in Europe where Americans can stay long-term without a visa.

    Serbia allows visitors up to 90 days in the country. This landlocked Balkan nation is highly underrated and extremely affordable, making it perfect for long-term travelers who want to get off the beaten path.

    Its capital city Belgrade is vibrant and cool, while the rest of the country boasts natural beauty like Tara National Park and quaint, historic small towns.

    The City Of Belgrade, Capital Of Serbia, Seen From A Boat On The River Sava, Eastern Europe, Balkan Peninsula

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    This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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  • Marriott Now Offers Short Term Rentals Competing With Airbnb

    Marriott Now Offers Short Term Rentals Competing With Airbnb

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    Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel company is now offering private homes for rental, directly competing with Airbnb.

    The short-term rental market has seen an incredible uptake in demand over the past years and Marriott International is now offering a new service that is meant to break into the short rental market.

    The service is called Homes & Villas which has already 60,000 properties at its disposal. Travelers will be able to select private homes and villas in around 75 countries.

    These properties range from unique collections of private homes, beachfront bungalows, sprawling villas, grand chateaus, cozy cabins, ski chalets, and characterful townhouses, flats, apartments, to penthouses.

    marriott bonvoy search sign.

    Homes & Villas even hosts castles on their website.

    A major difference between Homes & Villas and other home rental companies. 

    Homes & Villas, unlike other short-term rental companies, works with select professional home management companies to ensure that the properties are of the highest standards.

    With most traditional home rental companies, properties are directly listed by the homeowner themselves, enabling almost anyone to list their property.

    beautiful home with fire place and modern decor

    Working only with select professional home management companies, Marriott is ensuring exceptional standards across their properties.

    Loyalty Rewards Program.

    Another big benefit Homes & Villas has over Airbnb is that travelers will be able to accumulate and redeem Marriott points. Being able to provide a unique rental experience in an upscale home while also giving consumers a chance to earn and redeem points is a huge win for Marriott International.

    modern penthouse with wood floors

    People naturally want to feel included and appreciated and being part of a loyalty rewards program is a great way to ensure consumer satisfaction.

    The cost of it all.

    Although Marriott is targeting upscale, high-end properties with its new rental service, the prices do not only have to necessarily reflect that. Many of the properties on the site go for $700 to $1000 a night, but you can find beautiful apartments and homes for under $200 a night.

    airbnb lobby with luggage

    In Barcelona, you can find a 2-bedroom apartment for $171 a night. Miami offers 1-bedroom apartments for as low as $161 a night. You can enjoy Paris for as low as $120 for a one-bedroom flat.

    If Homes & Villas is proving one thing already it’s that good taste doesn’t always equate to high cost.

    An Obvious Downside.

    As good as this new service offered by Marriott International may be for travelers across the globe, there is one startling downside to the rental company.

    small apartment with city view

    Homes & Villas does not offer a very generous cancellation policy. If there is one thing we’ve all learned over the past 2 years is that nothing is guaranteed, and unforeseen things happen all the time.

    Vacations unfortunately don’t always happen. Flights get canceled, people fall ill, and trips ultimately don’t always come to fruition.

    In a world full of uncertainty, traveling needs to remain flexible, and unfortunately, after reviewing Homes & Villas’ cancellation policies, I can’t help but realize that its cancellation policy is not kind to unforeseen circumstances.

    things to look for when you check into your airbnb rental

    In fact, it has one of the worst cancellation policies I have ever seen.

    You can only really get a refund on a property you’ve booked if you cancel within 48 hours of booking. After that, you’re no longer eligible for a refund.

    This seems like a major downside to this service.

    Bottom Line

    Ultimately Marriott International expanding its operation into the short-term rental market is great news for travelers. A market with multiple players and plentiful options means competitive prices for consumers.

    Individuals will be able to decide for themselves what accommodation suits them best for their next vacation.

    READ MORE:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Airbnb Blocks Short Stays For Users With No Reviews Over Summer Holidays

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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