Welcome to France
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Furnishing a traditional style Airbnb property in France comes with numerous challenges that can be both daunting and confusing for hosts. There is always the delicate task of creating décor that perfectly balances traditional French charm with the modern comforts travellers expect.
Ensuring that the stylish antique furniture does not compromise the functionality and practicality of the space can often be a significant hurdle. Furthermore, sourcing authentic, high-quality pieces to create a truly French ambiance can be an uphill task for hosts, causing much hassle and uncertainty.
However, after several years of gaining expert knowledge, understanding common pain points and addressing areas that typically cause confusion, we have developed a comprehensive amenities list. This list, furnished below, was designed to guide the journey of Airbnb hosts in fitting out their traditional French properties while meeting their guests' expectations - thus promising a stay that is steeped in the richness of French culture, yet comfortable, convenient and memorable.
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bathroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trash Can | Must Have | 1 | Lined with a disposable bag, should be emptied and cleaned between guests | Small stainless steel with foot lever to open lid |
| 2 | Toilet | Must Have | 1 | Provide a well-maintained, clean, and functioning toilet | Standard, comfortable height toilet |
| 3 | Sink | Must Have | 1 | Should be clean, functional and have sufficient space for people to wash their hands or face | Classic style ceramic sink with hot & cold water |
| 4 | Shower/Bathtub | Must Have | 1 | Must be clean and functional, with a good water pressure control | Bath-shower combination or standalone shower. Traditional style materials like ceramic or brass are appropriate |
| 5 | Toilet Paper | Must Have | 2 rolls per person per week | Re-supply as necessary | Soft, 2-ply or more brands |
| 6 | Bath Towels | Must Have | 2 per guest | Provide more for longer stays, do not forget to provide towel hooks/racks | Soft, fluffy, and absorbent material. Traditional style, plain or with simple patterns |
| 7 | Hand Towels | Must Have | 2 per guest | Provide more for longer stays | Soft, fluffy and absorbent material. Traditional style, plain or simple patterns |
| 8 | Bath Mat | Must Have | 1 | Must be changed and cleaned for each new guest | Highly absorbent, quick drying bath mat |
| 9 | Hair Dryer | Must Have | 1 | Not everyone will use, but essential to have | Look for compact, powerful and easy to clean models |
| 10 | Mirrors | Must Have | 1 | Should be clean, without spots or streaks | Full length and vanity mirrors in traditional French style frames |
| 11 | Towels Holder/Rack | Must Have | 1 | Should be enough space for the towels provided | Metal wall mounted rack in traditional style |
| 12 | Toilet Brush | Must Have | 1 | Ensure cleanliness, replace when needed | Ceramic or plastic with holder |
| 13 | Medicine Cabinet | Optional | 1 | For storage of toiletries and medications, not required but appreciated | Should match with other furniture in style and color |
| 14 | Bidet | Optional | 1 | Popular in European bathrooms but not a requirement | Ceramic bidet with hot & cold water |
| 15 | Candles/Scent Diffuser | Optional | As per requirement | Consider guests' fragrance sensitivity before using | Optional decor to add ambiance, traditional scents like lavender, citrus, or rose |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bedroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bedding Sets | Must Have | 2 sets per bed | Extra set can be used while the other is being washed or in case of an accident by the guest. | Choose high-quality cotton or linen bedding sets, preferably white or in warm colors. Think about including a duvet for colder months. |
| 2 | Bed | Must Have | 1 | Make sure the size suits the room. Double, queen, or king size are the most suitable. | Classic wooden bed frame, possibly antique style. |
| 3 | Pillows | Must Have | 2-4 per bed | Provide a mix of soft and firm pillows to cater to different guest preferences. | High quality, hypoallergenic pillows. |
| 4 | Nightstands | Must Have | 2 per bed | These should be within reach of the bed for convenience. | Traditional wooden nightstands, preferably in French Provincial style. |
| 5 | Lamps | Must Have | 2 per nightstand | Consider the room's overall lighting. Bedside lamps can add to the room's ambience and serve as reading lights. | Choose lamps that fit the traditional French style, perhaps with fabric shades. |
| 6 | Wardrobe/Closet | Must Have | 1 | Depending on the space available, decide between a full wardrobe or a simple clothes rack. | Classic wooden wardrobe or an iron clothes rack. |
| 7 | Curtains/Blinds | Must Have | For all windows | Ensure they block out enough light for guests to sleep. Consider sound isolation too. | Silk or velvet curtains, or wooden blinds can add to the classic look. |
| 8 | Books | Optional | Variable | Books can add character and give guests something to read. Include some about France. | Place books in a shelf or a basket. |
| 9 | Full Length Mirror | Optional | 1 | Ideal for checking outfits. Be cautious about placement for privacy. | Antique wooden frame to suit traditional style. |
| 10 | Artwork | Optional | Variable | Artwork can add personality to a room. Keep it tasteful and not too personal. | Opt for artwork depicting French landscapes, vintage paintings or antique maps. |
| 11 | Rug | Optional | 1 | Softens the room and adds comfort. Make sure it's non-slip. | Choose a traditional French Aubusson rug for style. |
| 12 | Desk/Workspace | Optional | 1 | If space allows, a small workstation can be a thoughtful addition. | A rustic wooden writing desk could enhance the traditional look. |
| 13 | Chair/Seating | Optional | 1-2 | Helpful for dressing or for guests to relax. | Traditional style seating such as a Louis XV style chair. |
| 14 | Alarm Clock | Optional | 1 | Phone chargers may also be appreciated by guests. | A classical French vintage style alarm clock. |
| 15 | Desk Accessories | Optional | Variable | Stationery, paper, envelopes can be useful for some guests. | Choose traditional, good quality desk accessories. |
| 16 | Fresh Flowers | Optional | Variable | Adds a touch of luxury and freshness to the room. | Traditional French flowers like lavender, roses or sunflowers. |
| 17 | Candles | Optional | Variable | Makes the room more inviting and can mask any odours. | Choose scented candles with a traditional French fragrance like lavender or rose. |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Kitchen
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trash Can | Must Have | 1 | Consider one with step pedal and inner bucket for convenience and hygiene | Brands like SimpleHuman or Rubbermaid |
| 2 | Oven Mitts | Must Have | 1 pair | Should be heat-resistant and machine washable | Brands like Honla, Cuisinart. |
| 3 | Cooking Utensils | Must Have | 1 set | Include basics like spatula, ladle, tongs, slotted and regular spoons | Brands like Calphalon, OXO |
| 4 | Knife Set | Must Have | 1 set | Should include at least a chef's knife, bread knife and paring knife | Brands like Wüsthof, Victorinox |
| 5 | Mixing Bowls | Must Have | Set of 3 | Various sizes needed for different applications | Brands like Pyrex or Duralex |
| 6 | Glassware | Must Have | 6-8 or based on maximum guest capacity | Should match overall aesthetic of kitchen and should include wine glasses for French experience | Brands like Luminarc, Schott Zwiesel |
| 7 | Cookware (Pots and Pans) | Must Have | Basic set (at least three different sizes) | Non-sticking and easy-to-clean | Brands like Tefal, a French brand, or Le Creuset |
| 8 | Kettle | Must Have | 1 | Traditional stove-top kettles align better with French style | Brands like Le Creuset, OXO |
| 9 | Coffee Machine | Must Have | 1 | Preferences can range from simple drip machine to pod coffee maker | Brands like Keurig, Breville, or Nespresso |
| 10 | Toaster | Must Have | 1 | Should be in line with color scheme of kitchen | Brands like Cuisinart, KitchenAid |
| 11 | Microwave | Must Have | 1 | Modern functionality and fits the traditional style | Brands like Panasonic, Whirlpool |
| 12 | Refrigerator | Must Have | 1 | Energy-efficient full-sized fridge | Brands like Bosch, Samsung, GE |
| 13 | Stove/ Oven | Must Have | 1 | Gas or electric based on personal preference and what's easily accessible in your property location | Brands like LG, GE, Viking |
| 14 | Complimentary French Wine | Optional | 1-2 | A small touch of local culture | Selection should vary based on region: Bordeaux in Bordeaux, Champagne in Champagne, etc. |
| 15 | Dishwasher | Optional | 1 | Energy and water-efficient model | Brands like Bosch, Whirlpool, Miele |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Living Room
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sofa | Must Have | 1-2 | Should offer enough seating for the max number of guests | Choose traditional or vintage-styled French furniture |
| 2 | Side Tables | Must Have | 1-2 | For guests to keep their drinks, books, etc. | Traditional wooden table |
| 3 | Coffee Table | Must Have | 1 | Center of conversations | Wooden coffee table with carved legs |
| 4 | Table Lamps | Must Have | 1-2 | Ensure there's proper lighting | Table lamps with vintage styling |
| 5 | Rugs | Must Have | 1 | To make the living room cozy and inviting | Traditional French country style rugs |
| 6 | Cushions | Must Have | As per sofa | For comfort | Cushions made of French Toile fabric |
| 7 | Drapes or Curtains | Must Have | As per windows | To ensure privacy | Traditional French-style drapes |
| 8 | WiFi Router | Must Have | 1 | For internet connectivity. Ensure it is password-protected | Any high-quality Wifi router with strong connection |
| 9 | Music System | Optional | 1 | For background music | Quality vintage style record player or modern sound system |
| 10 | French-themed coffee table books | Optional | 2-3 | For guests to browse | Books about French culture, traditions, food, wine |
| 11 | Clock | Optional | 1 | For time checks | Vintage, classic styled clock |
| 12 | Bouquet of Fresh Flowers | Optional | 1 every week | For the aesthetics and fragrance | Locally sourced seasonal flowers |
| 13 | Candles | Optional | 2-3 | For atmosphere | Choose fragrant French country scents |
| 14 | Coat Stand | Optional | 1 | For winter coats, scarfs, hats, etc. | Antique, wooden coat stand |
| 15 | Throw Blankets | Optional | 2 | For added comfort | French style patterned throw blankets |
| 16 | Fireplace | Optional | 1 | If possible, this is highly coveted in traditional French properties | Stone fireplace, if possible |
| 17 | Artwork | Optional | 1-3 | To add a real French touch to the room | French impressionist artwork or traditional country scenes |
| 18 | Bookshelf | Optional | 1 | If space allows | Traditional style wooden bookshelf |
| 19 | Television | Optional | 1 | For guests who wish to watch TV | Choose a model from a reputable brand |
| 20 | Magazine Rack | Optional | 1 | For storing various local tourism magazines | Use a traditional wooden or woven rack |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Outdoor Space
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bistro Set | Must Have | 1 | Space should have enough room for the set - a small table and two chairs | Traditional style in wrought iron or wood |
| 2 | Outdoor Lighting | Must Have | 2-3 | Traditionally styled lamps to match the property design | Solar LED lights, lantern style |
| 3 | Flower Pots/Planters | Must Have | 3-5 | Local plants do well in these pots. The colors should complement the property's theme | Ceramic or terracotta pots with French design |
| 4 | Parasol/ Patio Umbrella | Must Have | 1 | To provide shade. Must be securely fitted to prevent being knocked over by the wind | Wooden or steel frame with a stylish, weather-resistant canopy |
| 5 | Picnic Basket | Optional | 1 | Should include all necessary utensils and dishware | Wicker basket with French checked pattern liner |
| 6 | Lawn Games | Optional | 1-2 | Depending on size of the lawn, games like petanque or croquet can be provided | Games should be suitable for all age groups like a petanque set |
| 7 | Bird Feeder | Optional | 1 | Check if local regulations allow for bird feeders | Classic hanging type bird feeder |
| 8 | Outdoor Pillows | Optional | 4-6 | Should complement the overall outdoor décor and be weather-resistant | Traditional French patterned fabrics |
| 9 | Outdoor Rug | Optional | 1 | Should be weather-resistant and easy to clean | A traditional or vintage designed rug |
| 10 | Garden Statues | Optional | 2 | Traditionally styled based on your property design | Bronze or stone French garden statues, can include garden gnomes |
| 11 | Fountain | Optional | 1 | Must meet safety regulations and routine cleaning is recommended | Classic French style stone or bronze fountains |
| 12 | Hammock | Optional | 1 | Ensure it is properly installed, safe and sturdy | Cotton or polyester with stand or tree-straps, preferably Lafuma brand |
| 13 | Fire Pit | Optional | 1 | Ensure fire safety guidelines are met | Rustic fire pit with protective mesh and cover |
| 14 | Outdoor Heater | Optional | 1 | Gas or electric type depending on availability of connections and safety regulations | Free standing heater, preferably French brands like Favex |
| 15 | BBQ Grill | Optional | 1 | Ensure safety guidelines are met, and space is prepared for smoke | Charcoal or gas BBQ, possibly a French brand like Le Marquier |
