I originally started using and recommending AirBNB for visiting cities where hotel prices were ridiculous. Friends and family coming to visit me in my city (Aus

I originally started using and recommending AirBNB for visiting cities where hotel prices were ridiculous. Friends and family coming to visit me in my city (Austin) frequently found it was cheaper to rent a whole house in a desirable neighborhood than to book a dark, drab room in a mid-range hotel chain. Now that hotel prices are more in line with other cities, thanks to a boom in new hotels, AirBNB seems like it fills more of a luxury/party niche. I no longer recommend it to people who are just looking for an affordable place to stay.