NYC Airbnb Offering Cheap Digs & Chevy Van-Life Experience
At $69 a night, this van might be the best deal on the island of Manhattan!
New York City is a place like no other. It’s bursting with energy. There is incredible history, architecture, culture. It is an incredible place to live, and always a blast to visit. It is also incredibly expensive. As a wise man once said, “The rent is too damn high!” But a clever Airbnb host might have found an interesting way to visit NYC without going broke. His solution? Stay in a van!
The Airbnb listing is offered by host Meng. He describes the Chevrolet Chevy Van as a “vintage custom van with cozy sofa-bed and lots of natural light. Perfect for international travelers, backpackers, and the #vanlife experience.” Okay, when we think of the van-life experience this isn’t exactly what springs to mind. But hey, why not? Staying in Soho, definitely one of New York’s most desirable ‘hoods, for under $70 bucks sounds like a pretty cool adventure to us.
While the price is right, it’s not a perfect set up. As the posting states, there is something missing.
“No bathroom inside but many nearby. Free guest passes to gym with pool and showers.” I guess you have to think of it as urban camping. Instead of finding a tree, you use Starbucks or Planet Fitness to answer the call of nature.
But those who have stayed in the van have nothing but praise. Meng’s van has a high rating of 4 1/2 out of 5 stars. Past guests give this van an enthusiastic thumbs up. Said user Stephen, “This is the best idea when you’re looking for an adventure. It doesn’t get more adventurous. You feel safe and it’s obvious the owner has your back and will help you any way he can. Stopping thinking about it and just book this place.”
We’re definitely impressed with how the classic Chevy van has been converted into a rolling crash pad, and the space is utilized very effectively. It’s probably bigger than a few studios we lived in in NYC.
Meng says, “Ideal guests approach van-life with an open mind, a sense of humor, and a fun attitude. Bring your sense of adventure.” Hey, it’s New York, sometimes embracing an attitude of “Why not?’ is the best way to go.
What do you think? Would you stay in a van in New York? Sound off in the comments, or let us know in the forums.
Photos: Airbnb