First nights in various countires

Hi Folks,

Was just wondering how people usually sort out their first nights accomodation in the countries they visit? Obviously most countries are going to have hotels attatched / near to the airport, but these are likely to be expensive just for that reason.

Do people sit it out in the airport if they arrive late at night, and then go and find somewhere to sleep during the next day? Or do most people book a hotel for the first night before arrival in the country?

Cheers,

Depends on the country....there are some very good web sites out there on sleeping in airports (I think one of the better ones is even called that!) and the time of arrival. Transport to/from airports is also a factor. Some run 24/7, others are non-existent...

If I arrive after midnight in an underdeveloped place I might hang out at the airport, but if it's a fancy modern city or earlier than midnight, I just take public transit to the area of town with the highest density of cheap accommodation (before a trip, I take note of where those areas are for the cities I plan to visit, and then leave the guidebooks at home), and wander around until I find something. I haven't had to sleep outside once yet, no matter what city or how busy the season. There's always something - a hostel willing to throw an extra mattress on the floor or whatever.

If your bag is heavy or you don't like uncertainty, then perhaps this won't work for you. It seems there are two types of people - those who hate being lost and those who love it. I'm in the latter group.

I have always found reliable and reasonably priced hotels near any city's train station

being a member of youth hostels association works well, a booking can be made at most times of the day or night at nearly all airports.

else, sleeping at the airport doesnt look too unusual and is pretty safe in most countries

cheers, bruce

Depending on the situation, I might make a first night reservation. This would be especially true if I am going during prime tourist season; if I don't speak a language that is spoken there at all, or if I am really un- sure about the place. Otherwise I try to always arrive in the morning if at all possible (If I cannot, I might reserve that first night).

The extra cost of a spot I can reserve, if there is any, is usually worth it.

I have never arrived late at night so can't speak to that situation. I would want to have something at hand, I am sure.