AIRBNBs a Train Ride Away from NYC

This post is done in partnership with AIRBNB. All opinions expressed are my own.

If there’s one thing that’s become most apparent to me since COVID lockdown began, it’s that I need a license LOL. Facts around safety on airplanes are still mostly confusing so I’ve been prioritizing local trips that I can get to by train from NYC. For the past few days, I’ve been scouring AIRBNB and making wishlists and I’m sharing a few that are top contenders for when I want a change of scenery from NYC’s hustle and bustle (it doesn’t hurt that these homes are top-rated in cleanliness and AIRBNB’s COVID-compliance!). 

This shot of Willow Treehouse in Willow, NY doesn’t look real and I love that. The home floats in the forest next to a swimmable pond - it’s a storybook fantasy. I love this updated take on a treehouse with its angular architectural details and modern touches. And there’s a wood-burning hot tub on the property! This is definitely somewhere I’d go for a romantic weekend (or week since we’re all working remotely). 

If I could design my dream upstate home, this Hudson Pool House would be it. With its (maybe sometimes too) open concept, this house screams “let it flow”. There are so many open walls, so much light, and so many well-appointed touches, I’m surprised this home isn’t booked solid. There’s also a bathtub, a hot tub off a bedroom, and a pool so there are tons of ways for you to catch some relaxation and take a dip. If you visit this house and don’t get inspired, your chakras are blocked!

This Lavish Woodland Cottage is the perfect amount of rustic without feeling antiquated, with quirky touches like original fireplaces and a bright green front door. It’s where I imagine friends (or a family!) would come, sit around a fireplace, and play games while eating comfort foods. There’s also a hot tub if the adults want to have some fun.

Okay, so The Zen House is on my list purely because it’s absolutely insane? There’s an entire movie theater, a Bath House with a fully functioning sauna and cold plunge tub, and a fire pit. Outfitted for 12 guests, this home is definitely one to pack up the truck with your quaranteam and live it up!

This RW How West Barn is shabby chic and a total departure from my other picks, but it just seems so warm and fun. The garage doors open to a vast horizon - I can only imagine the sunsets while you have dinner in this room.  Every bathroom has a rainhead shower (some even have two!) and there’s a tub to luxuriate after a long day of hanging around. I’d grab a few girlfriends, a few bags of groceries, and just cook and vibe in this barn. 

For more NYC-proximate homes, check out AIRBNB. They’re taking COVID-cleanliness very seriously, and you can check for the “Enhanced Clean” seal on any home before you book.