PSA: I found a free accommodation trick that saved me almost $400 in Paris last month

I was about to book a hostel for $85 a night near the center. Out of frustration I tried searching for 'university housing' during summer break on a whim. Turns out several Paris universities rent out their empty dorm rooms for like $30 a night in July and August. Basic but clean and right in the Latin Quarter. Has anyone else used this for other cities?

3 comments

3 Comments

coran631d ago

Oh totally, I did this in Vienna once, but the catch is you gotta book way ahead (like months) because the rooms go fast once people catch on. Also check if they include breakfast or sheets, some charge extra for towels which can add up quick.

sanchez.blake1d ago

Figured that out the hard way in Barcelona. Showed up thinking I was slick and ended up sleeping on a couch with no towel and a 20 euro "convenience fee.

torres.leo1d ago

Last summer I booked a place in Prague thinking I was being smart, but I missed the fine print about the 15 euro charge for basic amenities. Ended up paying almost the same as a hotel for a room with a fan that sounded like a lawnmower and a shower that only did cold. The front desk guy didn't even warn me until I was already checked in and standing there with my wet bag. Now I always email the place first to ask about hidden fees, no matter how good the photos look on the listing. Learned that lesson hard after getting burned twice in the same trip.