EP136: This Week in the World of Airbnb
Summary
This 'Get Paid For Your Pad' episode discusses various Airbnb news items from March 2017, including Airbnb's expansion into long-term rentals and efforts to give hosts a greater voice. It also touches on how Chinese copycat home-sharing sites are innovating and a case of an Airbnb flat being turned into a nightclub. Hosts should pay attention to Airbnb's evolving strategies and the potential impact on their businesses.
Key Insights
- •Airbnb is exploring expansion into long-term home rentals, catering to business travelers with stays up to six months.
- •Chinese copycat home-sharing sites have begun to surpass Airbnb when it comes to innovation.
Action Items
- ✓Consider the potential impact of Airbnb's expansion into long-term rentals on your booking strategy and target audience.Effort: lowImpact: medium
Tools & Resources
- →Bloomberg: Article #2: www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017/03/08/airbnb-explores-expansion-in-long-term-home-rentals
- →South China Morning Post: Article #3: www.scmp.com/week-asia/business/article/2074802/how-chinas-airbnb-copycats-beat-silicon-valley-titan-its-own-game
Watch Out For
- ⚠An Airbnb flat was turned into a nightclub without the host's knowledge, resulting in over 200 people, police involvement, and the guest being banned from Airbnb. Hosts should be vigilant about their property's use and any potential misuse.
Related News
Saudi Arabia–Qatar High-Speed Rail Aims to Boost Tourism and Cut Emissions
A new high-speed rail line connecting Riyadh and Doha is planned, with potential for boosting tourism and shifting travel patterns. This could create new opportunities for short-term rental hosts in both cities by increasing the influx of tourists. Consider monitoring the progress of the project and researching market trends in the impacted areas.
First Round of Speakers Announced for Skift Travel Megatrends NYC 2026
Skift Travel Megatrends NYC is holding a conference in January 2026. The conference will cover topics such as AI acceleration, platform challenges, and the reinvention of cities for tourism. Hosts can gain insights into future travel trends and prepare their businesses for 2026.
Sorry, Wall Street: Why Prism Picked India for its IPO
Prism, the parent company of Oyo, is planning a large IPO in India, highlighting the country's growing entrepreneurial ambition. This decision could signal a shift in investment and a strong belief in the potential of the Indian market, which may indirectly influence strategies of global STR companies.
Google Tests Ad Formats That Push Attractions Bookings: Scoop
Google is testing new ad formats that directly integrate booking modules for attractions like Disneyland and Universal Orlando. This could lead to increased visibility and potential bookings for experiences platforms, impacting how guests find things to do near your rentals.