How to book your best room or apartment in Latin America. These items are tried and true in Mexico, Guatemala, Ecuador, and Peru. Examine this 11 point check list with tips how to verify each item. Common pitfalls are mentioned and examples are give to help you avoid them. The importance of internet security is covered. Verify your ventilation and plumbing have no issues before handing over your money. Filmed in Panajachel Guatemala on the shore of Lake Atitlan. Getting a great room doesn't have to bust your budget.
0:00 Intro 2:56 Communication with host 3:37 Internet speed and security
5:06 Seating area and desk
5:42 Ventilation and health
7:26 Bathroom
9:50 Bed and bedding 11:32 Noise
12:43 Lighting and light pollution 12:56 Kitchen
15:03 Laundry
16:10 Other perks like gardens, balcones, and rooftop terraces
18:44 Closing
reamble: actually verifying many of these items will be difficult with online booking. I would suggest online booking is best for short stays. However when renting apartments longer-term it is important to verify and test your priority items prior to entering into an agreement. You may need prioritize your list based upon your budget or location. It might not be possible to have everything on your list in some locations or situations. For example locations along the coastal desert of Northern Peru hot water is rarely available because it is a hot climate and most locals do not desire hot water.
Communication: Most folks would highly rank the ability to communicate with your host or landlord via Whatsapp or other means before and during one's stay.
Internet speed and reliability
Speed testing
What do you need just browsing, digital nomad, or uploading videos
Security
Password protected WIFI vs open WIFI
Open WIFI is a common reason social media accounts are compromised. Keep in mind you banking could also be compromised before using these unprotected.
VPN
Use your own router and firewall
Seating area or desk to work from may be important to digital nomads, bloggers, vloggers, youtubers, and others.
Decent chair for sitting comfortably
Reasonably sturdy table or desk for laptop or writing
Ventilation this can be an health issue for some and comfort issue by most if not all – cite Agua Calientes Peru
Windows – open to verify they exist and are not bricked shut or otherwise obstructed
Look for signs of black mold on the ceiling or other surfaces. Trust your nose!
Is smoking prohibited
Look for signs of plumbing issues
Screens at lower elevations to prevent mosquitoes and other nuisance flying insects
Bathroom
Shared or private bathroom
Hot shower is more important the higher the elevation of the cooler the climate. How to test demonstrate and cite first hostal stay in Arequipa Peru
Shower drain
Toilet
Is there a seat present if you require such
Test for adequate flushing and verify tank refills
Mirror
Bedding
Soft or hard enough for your preference
Pillow
Bed linens meet you standards
Inspect for signs of bed bugs or other nuisance
Noise
Is location next to a loud bar
Nuisance animals such as roosters, dogs, and cats. Tolerance of these may vary from person to person
Lighting
Adequate lighting throughout room or apartment
Note potential sources of light pollution such as streetlight near window
Kitchen
Shared kitchen or private kitchen
Shared kitchen are great for shorter stays and to meet other travelers
Private kitchens are better for longer stays and the ability to cook most meals to save money
Inspect for signs of nuisance insects such as roaches and flies
Adequate sink and counter to clean up and process meals
Adequate utensils, plates pots and pans.
Gas included or extra for cook top or stove
Refrigerator
Appliances such as blender, microwave, toaster oven, etc
Clothes washing area or machine
Clothesline
Can you hang a line in your bathroom
Clothes hangers are a plus and general good sign
Perks for relaxing, smoking, or meeting other travelers
Garden area
Shared balcony
Rooftop patio
Closing: Trade offs for budget or priority must haves
Got Questions About This Travel Hack or Channel?
If you are planing a visit to Ecuador and have any questions about the logistics please feel free to reach out or leave comments below. I am always happy to help. I strive to support the local economy and especially the local Ecuadorian owned businesses
I primarily travel solo but you don't have to to enjoy this channel. Working as a river guide during summers in North America I don't earn a lot of money and live close to the federal poverty level. In spite of this I live a rich life on a frugal budget. If you would like to learn more about traveling in Latin America or maybe frugal travel tips visit Fast Fred Travels and if you would like to come rafting with me check out Fast Fred Rafts for details.
Curious about how I can travel so light? Want to know more about the gear I carry abroad on my extend trips in Latin America? Here's your chance dig into my Amazon shop for an inside look. If you make purchases via this shop I will get a very small commission but it will not increase your price what so ever.
