Staying in an apartment or home in a city has its advantages — except, usually, for travel agents. Bridging the gap between home share and hotel, Onefinestay provides luxury services and amenities in addition to travel agent commission.
Some features — such as a personal greeting with welcome amenities — will remind clients of staying at a luxury hotel. Clients also have access to a point person 24/7 during their stay, in addition to an iPhone that includes free data and local calls as well as an app filled with local tips.
Each home features beds made with fresh white linens and bathrooms stocked with boutique toiletries. And if guests stay more than seven nights, there is complimentary maid service. The company is also rolling out a keyless entry service wryly named “Sherlock,” enabling guests to access their temporary home with the same ease and security as one would have as a hotel guest.
In addition to commission, Onefinestay works with travel agents to find the best space for their clients. The company offers a dedicated travel partner page, a booking support team, account management and generous travel partner discounts on personal stays.
Agents interested in receiving the company’s travel agent brochure and connecting with an account manager can visit Onefinestay.com/Partners.
Onefinestay prides itself for its unique homes and apartments, and can help agents learn what makes each one special. Currently, the company, which launched in 2010, offers rentals in London, Paris, New York and Los Angeles. Here are five options that we think will help your client experience their trip from a local’s perspective.
Alexander Street in Notting Hill, London
Alexander Street is located in the heart of Notting Hill. Not too far from Portobello Road and Kensington Gardens as well as near several tube stations, this quiet and posh home in London is superb for those desiring a quaint stay in one of the world’s most visited cities.
In addition, the townhouse is composed of five bedrooms and fourth bathrooms — a great size for a large group or family.
Rates start from about $1,200 per night, and a minimum stay of five nights is required.
www.onefinestay.com/london/alexander-street
Deep Dell Place in Hollywood, Los Angeles
A stylish musician’s home a little above the flurry of Hollywood excitement, Deep Dell Place delivers a secluded respite from the city. The home is within close driving distance to the center of Hollywood with restaurants, clubs, theatres and all the touristy fun of The Hollywood Walk of Fame, TLC Chinese Theatre and El Capitan Theatre.
Its locale in the Hollywood Hills also provides close access to Lake Hollywood Reservoir and Griffith Park, both great for hiking. The 101 freeway, a link to downtown Los Angeles, the ocean and beyond, is nearby as well.
The three-bedroom home offers an office, a patio, a garden and amenities for children, including toys and a crib. Rates start from $469 a night, and a minimum stay of five nights is required.
www.onefinestay.com/los-angeles/deep-dell-place
Rue du Bac in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, Paris
This bright and airy apartment in the heart of Paris’ Saint-Germain-des-Pres is within walking distance to famous sights such as Le Bon Marche, The River Seine, Musee Rodin and Musee d’Orsay, and has easy access to the Paris Metro.
The neighborhood is also home to many other shops, markets, cafes, theaters and parks. A few notable places are Coutume Cafe, Conran Shop and Cafe de Flore on the Boulevard Saint Germain. The art-filled apartment has one bedroom and one bathroom, in addition to a pullout sofa.
Rates start from $255 per night, and a minimum stay of four nights is required.
www.onefinestay.com/paris/rue-du-bac
St Mary’s Gardens II in Waterloo/Lambeth, London
St Mary’s Gardens presents a charming experience in an excellent but underappreciated part of London. This renovated Victorian home affords modern amenities with classic British charm, in addition to having great restaurants, shops, theaters, museums and galleries practically on its doorstep.
London’s South Bank is ideal for strolling along the river with glorious views of the Houses of Parliament. Nearby is the Lower Marsh, a street full of independent shops and, during typical lunch times on weekdays, a street market. With two bedrooms, an office and a garden, you can experience London like a local — just a bit removed from the hustle and bustle.
Rates start from $289 per night, and a minimum stay of three nights is required.
www.onefinestay.com/london/st-marys-gardens-2
West 4th Townhouse in West Village, New York
This meticulously curated artistic and literary space presents a fresh and inviting home in the heart of Manhattan’s West Village. Neighbors include jazz clubs, fine restaurants and bars, including Joe’s Pizza, Fat Cat and Magnolia Bakery. The Hudson River Park is nearby, an excellent place to stroll or jog away all those happy hour goodies.
What’s more, West 4th Townhouse is within walking distance to several subway stations for access to the uptown areas and the outer boroughs. The home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a roof deck and children’s toys.
Rates start from $1,170 per night, and a minimum stay of four nights is required.
www.onefinestay.com/new-york/west-4th-townhouse
The Details
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