Xmas accomodations -

Question

Only seeing AirBNB or VRBO so far online - houses. Anything more in line with a condo - most likely 2 weeks - Dec 20 - Jan 3. I do realize the "coastal" availabilities off Tampa but may like to be closer to relatives. Emerald Greens shows up but not recent good reviews. Thank you for your input!

Answer

Good question. Finding a condo-style rental in Tampa for a ~2-week stay over the holiday period (Dec 20 – Jan 3) is absolutely possible, though inventory may be tight and pricing elevated. Here are some suggestions, pros and cautions, and ideas for where to look — plus a couple of recommended neighborhoods.

Where to Look for Condo-Type Rentals (Not Just Houses)

Vrbo – Long-Stay / Monthly Listings: Vrbo has a “long stay” or “monthly” filter where you can find furnished condos and apartments in Tampa for 28+ night stays.
Airbnb Condos: There are many condo-style listings on Airbnb in Tampa (and nearby areas) — search for “condo/apartment” and apply your dates.
Merin Hospitality Group: They specialize in furnished short- and mid-term rentals in Tampa, including multi-week stays.
Rent By Owner: Their site has a number of short-term condo- and apartment-style rentals in Downtown Tampa.
Luxury / Upscale Rentals: HomeTeam Luxury Rentals lists high-end furnished condos and apartments, which might be ideal for a longer holiday stay.

Neighborhoods to Consider

Downtown / Channelside / Harbour Island: These areas are very walkable, close to Tampa’s core, and have plenty of condo options on Vrbo or Airbnb.
Hyde Park: A charming historic neighborhood, walkable with good access to restaurants, parks, and local shops.
Davis Islands: For a more “residential condo” feel — there are historic-style apartments (e.g., the Spanish Apartments) that might show up for short-term stays.

Things to Be Careful About / Consider

Holiday Pricing & Demand: December 20–Jan 3 is a high-demand period; prices for condo rentals will likely be higher than non-holiday times.
Short-Term Rental Regulations: In Tampa / Hillsborough County, short-term rentals are allowed in many areas, but it's good to confirm with the listing that the condo owner is permitted to do short-term stays.
Availability: Because you're booking for 2 full weeks over a holiday, it’s smart to lock in something ASAP — condos that are “just for houses” may be more common, but condos/apartments are absolutely out there.
Security & Amenities: Pay attention to building amenities (parking, elevators, pool) and guest access. If you're relying on Uber / walking / biking, being in a condo building in Downtown or Hyde Park may be much more convenient than in more suburban complexes.

My Recommendation for You

Given your two-week timeframe over Christmas into New Year’s, I’d lean toward starting your search on Vrbo (using the long-stay and condo filters) and cross-check with Airbnb’s condo/apartment listings. Focus first on Downtown / Channelside and Hyde Park — those will give you the best balance of location, walkability, and condo-style living. Use Merin Hospitality or HomeTeam Luxury Rentals if you want more reliable monthly rentals with full furnishings.

One last piece of advice: When you find a place you like, reach out to the host/property manager to confirm total cost (including cleaning fees, utilities, etc.) and make sure the building allows short-term rentals during your dates. That way, you avoid any surprises.