Over the years, I’ve stayed in all kinds of places; stylish lofts, tiny cabins, and standard hotels. Some of them were drop-dead gorgeous in photos but fell flat in real life. Others were humble, even a little plain but felt perfect the moment I stepped inside.
That’s what I’ve come to appreciate most: the difference between a place that looks good online… and one that feels good to be in.
If you’re booking a weekend getaway, or if you’re a host looking to create something special, here are seven things I always pay attention to. These small touches can make all the difference in turning a simple stay into something guests want to return to — and tell everyone about.
1. A Space That Feels Thoughtful
This is probably the first thing I notice when I walk in. Is the space styled with intention, or does it feel thrown together? I’m drawn to stays where the design feels warm and cohesive — like someone cared about how it would feel to live there, even for a few days.
For me, that usually means soft intentional lighting, layered textures, and a consistent color palette that doesn’t overwhelm the senses. It doesn’t have to be minimalist or high-end — it just needs to feel like a place where I can breathe.
2. High Quality Bedding That Feels Like a Hug
I’m a mom, a business owner, a content creator — and when I travel, rest is part of the ritual. So if the bedding is stiff, scratchy, or paper-thin? I feel it.
The best stays invest in soft, breathable sheets, plush pillows, and real blankets (not just decorative ones). Bonus points if there’s a throw or extra comforter for cozy mornings with coffee.
3. Light That Creates a Mood
Light does more than help you see — it sets the tone for the whole space. I love waking up to soft natural light, especially if I’m shooting content, but I also pay close attention to the lighting at night.
Are there lamps in the right places? Can I dim the lights to unwind before bed? Does it feel relaxing, or does it feel like a dentist’s office? It’s a small design choice that creates a huge emotional shift.
4. A Kitchen or Coffee Corner That Feels Personal
Even if I’m not planning to cook a full meal, it always feels special when the kitchen is stocked with a few thoughtful basics. Locally roasted coffee, tea sachets, filtered water — or even just a clean setup with everything I need to make a simple breakfast or pour a glass of wine.
Those little touches tell me the host wanted me to feel at home — not just pass through.
5. Clear, Calm Communication
The check-in process really sets the tone. I love when the host is proactive, clear, and kind — especially if there’s a code or lockbox involved. I’ve had stays where I was fumbling with apps and message threads just to get inside, and it totally threw me off.
Simple, friendly instructions make guests feel grounded from the start.
6. Personality + Local Flavor
One of the reasons I love Airbnb is that it lets you live like a local, even just for a couple of days. I always notice when a stay has something that reflects the area — local artwork, handmade ceramics, even a printed guide with the host’s favorite cafés or hiking spots.
It gives the space a heartbeat — and I leave feeling like I got a little glimpse into the rhythm of that town or neighborhood.
7. Instagram-Worthy Moments (That Feel Authentic)
This might sound superficial, but I think most of us — especially in the age of social media — appreciate when a space photographs well. That doesn’t mean it has to be trendy or curated. Just a few moments that feel intentional and beautiful.
A cozy corner. A reading chair under the window. A clawfoot tub or an outdoor firepit. These details invite people to slow down, savor the moment, and maybe snap a photo to remember it by.
Final Thoughts
For me, the best stays are the ones that leave a lasting impression — not because they were the biggest or most expensive, but because they were intentionally put together to help guests feel something.
If you’re a host trying to highlight the story of your space, that’s exactly where I come in. Through photography, video, and content strategy, I help listings feel more lived-in, more desirable, and more aligned with the kind of guests you actually want to attract.
→ Learn more about my Airbnb content packages here. (link)
