Accommondations- in particular Santa Barbara Accommodations needed

[pka222]

Instead of hijacking another thread (as I was doing a minute ago) here is the new one. 

When traveling to one location for a solid bit of time- 2 weeks or more- I really dislike hotels for their sterility and priceyness. For overnight layovers hotels are perfect but for the family vacation not so much.

Camping is my usual accommodation of choice but the situation has changed recently with the addition of a baby in January next year and a more comfort seeking partner in the intervening months.  The best option I think is to stay with friends or family, but when that is ruled out due to space or location what next?

Question one, what are your favorite  / best methods to find alternative housing options when traveling?   How do you find house swaps, house sitting situation or others?

Question 2- I'm headed to Santa Barbara (USA) mid October to Mid November. Can anyone help me find something there? My home in Samoa (beautiful tropical island) will be available for trade,  a short term rental probably wouldn't work due to my pets, but I'd be happy to swap with someone.  House sitting in SB would be good as well.  A hotel would run in excess of 2K so even a short term rental would be a possibility, thought the ones I've found on line are supper expensive.  The idea of dropping 2-3 K for a month of rent makes me queasy, any suggestions appricated

Cheers
P

[palvar]

My wife and I were in Santa Barbara a few weeks ago; we used Airbnb.com.  It was great!

[pka222]

Palvar- Thanks for the tip, Airbnb is new to me but there are some really good options on it.  which one did you stay at in SB? Cheers

[carolinakaren]

I know nothing about the SB area, but I'm glad to see people advertising house swaps.  I have always wanted to try it!  Those are great pictures of your home, so surely someone will want to trade. Good luck with your search!

[SJS]

Yes, house swaps are a great idea.  My brother just this past summer swapped his condo in Naples, FL with a family in Paris, France for 2 weeks.  It worked out great!  Now I'm going to swap my house for his condo next months!!! ha ha (he loses!).  But he said it was a really great experience and has told the rest of the family we are welcome to "swap his condo" for another place (since it's just a vacation condo for them).  What a GREAT brother!!