VRBO is another online option for travelers and homeowners

Kathy Vick, owner of The Hairloom Salon and Spa, decided to move her business to downtown Decorah last year. Vick bought the Rowley building on Winnebago Street. The salon and spa is located on the main floor and the second floor had been converted into an apartment. VRBO---Vacation Rentals by Owner--seemed to be a good fit.

VRBO, which was founded in 1995, has more than 25 listings for the Decorah area. VRBO . Property owners purchase paid listings in advance, usually for one year. "Winnebago Retreat" was listed on VRBO in May 2016 and they have had 100 nights booked so far. Winnebago Retreat pays an annual fee to be on VRBO's site and chooses to take care of the bookings themselves.

The downtown location is a benefit as Decorah has many travelers wanting to walk along downtown shops and restaurants. Many jobs are flexible these days and work can be done from laptops. Winnebago Retreat is a home away from home and seems to be a nice fit for that type of traveler. One group stayed for eight days.

Word is spreading of the new rental in town through word of mouth and through Luther faculty recommending it to incoming travelers. VRBO has a place for guests to leave a review and Winnebago Retreat has had several positive reviews. One traveler had this to say: "Beautiful apartment in an excellent location! No detail has been missed and owners are fabulous to work with! Gorgeous kitchen and very large rooftop deck were a hit with my family! We've already booked two more stays, this is a true gem!"

Manager Andrea Carlson said, "It's nice getting to know customers one on one. We can cater to each guest whether it's cookies, cupcakes, a bottle of wine or a coupon to a local restaurant. It's nice to personalize their experience based on their needs."

Fairfield Inn, being built on the former Bluffs Inn property, is set to open later this summer. Winnebago Retreat and similar businesses, should have nothing to worry about as they tend to attract a different type of traveler and are creating their own niche.

To check out all VRBO listings: https://www.vrbo.com