Room for rent: When it comes to overnight accommodations, hotel rooms are just one of many options

Hotels are an important industry in Cape Girardeau, which serves as the central hub of the Drury Hotels network. But for some visitors, alternative arrangements have become a more viable option in recent years.

Apps and other technologies have affected the traditional bricks-and-mortar bed-and-breakfast model of doing business. Sites like Airbnb.com and VRBO.com (vacation rental by owner) have been instrumental in driving the so-called "sharing economy" forward, and using online tools is typically the best way to shop hotel alternatives.

That's how Nashville, Tennessee, couple Wes and Colleen Ables found the room they rented when they visited Cape Girardeau for New Year's Eve.

For $195 per night, they were able to stay in a downtown loft right near the activities and restaurants they had come to visit in the first place.

These types of rooms also tend to offer more character than a standard hotel room. In Ables' own words, "It was super swanky and nice."

There are about a dozen places listed in the Cape Girardeau area on Airbnb, and most are comparable to the cost of a night in a hotel. The average rate is $122, but some listings are markedly cheaper.

"For sure, we'd definitely do it again, as with the cab industry," Ables says. "I'd rather take a Lyft due to the fact that their cars are much cleaner and drivers are more friendly. ... It's the same with hotels versus Airbnb. ... Less expensive, easier communication, more niche in design, closer to hot spots in a city, etc."

Inside the guest cottage at Broadway and Frederick Street in downtown Cape Girardeau.Laura Simon

And some places, like the guest house rented out by local antique store Annie Laurie's, even offer historical charm. Patrons can stay in a more than 100-year-old house for just under $100 a night. Although it's only been operational for a few months, patrons have expressed universally positive experiences.

One of the first renters was Erin Hamilton, who says she wouldn't have changed a thing about the space.

"All in all I would highly recommend staying at the guesthouse," she says. "The owner and property manager are very quick to respond and will answer any questions you have."

Joey Keys, regional director of the Better Business Bureau, also recommends asking questions about any place you plan to stay.

"Definitely don't be afraid to ask questions up front," he says. "It's better to ask beforehand than to get there and be surprised by something."

He says research is key, and even though it can be difficult for someone traveling to unfamiliar cities, it's wise to ask for references.

"We definitely have some of the rental properties around here that are accredited, and there are some reviews available for people who are interested," he says. "You can see what people have said, if there's been any complaints and how they might have handled any complaints."

He also advises paying with a credit card.

"Sometimes, you might have to make an advance payment," he says. "That way, if there turn out to be any fraudulent charges, you can challenge it with your credit card company.