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States are beginning to lift restrictions around the novel coronavirus, including Florida, a popular vacation destination.
From packing beaches to welcoming visitors back to Walt Disney World in July, the sunshine state is eagerly looking for ways to return to travel as safely as possible.
However, without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee with regard to safety. It's crucial to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing. The risk of infection depends on many variables, namely, the number of people you encounter and the length and nature of such interactions, as well as where you want to go, the rates of infection in your chosen destination, and your anticipated behavior once you arrive.
Vacation rentals are open in Florida, and if you're wondering if travel is safe, experts say Airbnb is one of the safer places to stay. This is because you are often booking an entire home protected from interaction with others.
Airbnb also announced rigorous new procedures including the Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, as well as only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities. These listings maintain a 24-waiting period after a guest checks out before entering to clean, followed by another 48-hour waiting period before guests check-in.
As an alternative measure, hosts may opt into Booking Buffer, which enforces a 72-hour vacancy period between stays. Or, hosts can choose to do neither, in which case, it's important to remember that cleaning practices vary, where everything from kitchen utensils to bed linens were used by previous guests.
No matter the policy, it's worth taking extra preventative measures such as running dishware through the dishwasher, and using a disinfecting wipe over all flat surfaces and high-touch areas. Of course, that also means you're now cleaning the home for which you already paid a lofty cleaning fee.
Yet Airbnb homes do still offer an attractive, private getaway. Florida, in particular, is easily accessible from most American cities, with relatively cheap and quick flights across the East Coast. Tourists can enjoy everything from theme park magic with the likes of Walt Disney World or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (once they reopen) as well as family-friendly resorts, and stunning beaches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.
Prefer a hotel? Read all Business Insider hotel reviews here, or our list of the best Walt Disney World Hotels and Resorts.We gathered the following list of Florida Airbnbs that are well-reviewed, thoughtfully-designed, and comfortable whether you're seeking a week-long break, weekend escape, or getaway at any time of the year, chosen based on the following criteria:
While we made an effort to keep nightly prices under $200, it's important to note that additional costs vary based on the host, and can include cleaning, facility, or resort fees, if applicable, which may be impacted by COVID-19. Also, be aware of cancelation policies and read the fine print, as some homes are quite strict, regardless of the pandemic. Ready to book? Just remember to pack extra sunscreen.
These are some of the best Airbnbs in Florida, ranging in price from $79 to $189 a night, and sorted by city.