To borrow from John Donne; no man is an island, and it’s these shared experiences through meaningful travel that supports our sense of community and anchors us to our journey and each other. To go beyond the guidebook, onefinestay is an innovative accommodation concept that provices an authentic and engaging experience in some of the world’s most popular cities. Perhaps you have travelled extensively, visited all the global hotspots and seen your share of major monuments and museums. On a subsequent trip to a favourite destination, chances are you are seeking a more immersive experience in a familiar location. An opportunity to peel back the layers of a multifaceted city like London or New York City and discover what lies beneath the touristic sheen and well-trodden streets. To go where those-in-the-know go. Shop locally. Eat where the natives eat. And reside in a vibrant neighbourhood rather than stay in the designer anonymity of a hotel. Onefinestay is the world's first ‘unhotel’ concept that aims to add colour to your monochrome accommodation options by offering the opportunity to stay in a characterful home with all the amenities and luxuries of a traditional hotel room. And, if you’ve ever dreamed of living like a local in some of the most exciting cities in the world, onefinestay is your wish come true.
The Concept
Established in London in 2009, onefinestay is the world’s first unhotel – offering travellers the chance to live like a local in an unique upscale home while the owners are out of town. While couch surfing and house swapping is nothing new, onefinestay takes the immersion experience one step further with a select edit of stylish homes in covetable areas of major metropolises complemented by all the luxury amenities of a hotel. It’s personal, with a touch of indulgence. Head of Global Sales for onefinestay Hugo Jenkins likens their service to that of a boutique hotel. “Our unique concept appeals to anyone looking for a more authentic experience when they travel to a city, encompassing a diverse range of people who really appreciate the space, along with the character, of real homes.” Some of the standout properties on offer include a converted carriage house in New York’s West Village, a Haussmann-style Paris apartment in Le Marais, a five-bedroom Fulham townhouse in London and an artist’s home in LA’s Pacific Palisades.
Another fine place to stay: Laucala Island – A Far-Flung Fijian Paradise One fine destination: Living The Dream On Lake Garda A night to remember: One Night In A Deserted Paradise
The Benefits
In a word: location, location. “Staying in a home is all about enjoying the charm and character of the city, and living like a local while you’re there,” Hugo says. “The great thing about onefinestay is that you get that authentic local experience but in an upscale home in a beautiful neighbourhood, and with the comforts and amenities of a fine hotel.” Onefinestay patrons can currently choose an abode in New York, Los Angeles, Paris or London in some of the most happening arrondissements, neighbourhoods and boroughs of these cities. Properties can accommodate a wide range of travelling groups with children also welcome in some residences. Rooms are also considerably larger than your standard hotel accommodation. Where onefinestay differs from other home-stay sites is the attentive service. Think the meticulous presentation, luxury linens, fluffy towels and prestige toiletries of a hotel without the early checkouts and unnecessary intrusions.
The Lowdown
To live like a local, onefinestay also provides guests with an iPhone loaded with suggestions, maps and insider info about your local area provided by your home-stay hosts. The phone is also a hotline for any extra help or guest services you may require with free local calls and wi-fi during your stay. The booking process is similarly streamlined and professional. “Guests can book a home just as easily as they would a hotel room, either instantly online through our website or over the phone with our 24/7 reservations team,” Hugo says. Simply give your Travel Associates consultant your chosen location, arrival and departure dates, and number of guests, and they will help you choose your home for your holiday. Hugo adds: “A member of our team will meet guests on arrival, and we’re at the other end of the phone throughout their stay should they need anything from a taxi reservation to an extra maid service.” For bookings and more information, click here to contact an experienced Travel Associates consultant.
