Tourism has become one of the most important activities in the economy of several countries. This sector has increasingly contributed to the global GDP by generating strong employment and income opportunities. Technological innovations are making life easier for business owners in the sector and for tourists, simplifying the decision-making process with lower costs, especially through the seasonal rental platform Airbnb.
In the context of these innovations, until recently, the role of travel agencies was quite relevant. Currently, they are losing ground to the internet, which through apps are offering attractive prices and security.
The phenomenon of AIRBNB
One of the global phenomena in this tourism scenario is the platform AIRBNB. This is the largest seasonal rental company in the world.
The AIRBNB is a seasonal rental site, but unlike hotels, the person renting the house to the traveler is the owner of the property. The properties are furnished and work very well for both property owners and those in need of accommodation.
Airbnb is present in 191 countries and territories and in over 65,000 cities around the world. Through your computer, mobile phone, or tablet, it is possible to make an online reservation without leaving home.
How Airbnb works
The AIRBNB started in 2008 when two designer friends rented out an extra space they had in their home to three travelers looking for accommodation. From there, the idea grew and became the platform that today connects thousands of guests with hosts from all over the world.
The Airbnb is simply the meeting of a person who needs a space somewhere in the world with a person who has that space available.
The secret sauce of Airbnb, however, and what differentiates it from other seasonal rental sites is the fact that it functions as a social network, where you can access the complete profile of both parties, guest and host.
It works like a letter of recommendation or a review board, where both tenant and host receive reviews, so that their reputation within the platform is built gradually.
Advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb
Like any seasonal rental, the platform has its good side and its bad side. It is up to the traveler to weigh what is essential for their trip to make their decision. See below how Airbnb works and some important points.
Advantages
1. More freedom, as renting an entire space, for example, is almost like being at home. If you choose a cozy property, you can return from outings, sit on the couch, watch TV, turn on the air conditioning, and relax as if you were at home; 2. Usually, renting an apartment on Airbnb, in a nice location, will cost less than staying in a hotel in the same area; 3. Cost reduction. Almost always hotels only offer breakfast. On Airbnb, you can find well-equipped kitchens (by selecting the “kitchen” filter in the settings), which allows you to save a lot by preparing your own meals at home with local products; 4. 100% genuine opinions and comments. A comment about the property can only be made by someone who actually stayed there, so you know that opinion is genuine; 5. Ideal for group travelers. Generally, hotels have a maximum capacity of 4 people in a room. On Airbnb, there is the possibility of renting a spacious apartment with many rooms, keeping the group together. There is more space for socializing among friends or family, and you can have dinners, enjoy a fireplace, hot tub, or even a pool.Disadvantages
1. Since it does not have hotel infrastructure, the service aspect in an Airbnb is quite limited. Do not expect room service, breakfast, or any other service you are used to finding in hotels and hostels; 2. Managing expectations. Many photos of listings are taken by the owners and can be a bit misleading. It is recommended, when possible, to choose properties that have verified photos, so you don’t have any surprises upon arriving at your destination; 3. Cancellations. The platform allows the host to choose the cancellation policy they prefer, and most end up opting for moderate (with 50% refund) or strict (no refund). In other words, if something unexpected happens, the site is inflexible and you may end up losing your reservation, often at the last minute. It’s worth being attentive; 4. Hosts may charge a cleaning fee for the apartment, and some end up overpricing this service to cover the low daily rate. Pay attention to this detail, as it is one of the disadvantages of how Airbnb works; 5. Thefts in the apartment can happen. Of course, these cases are very isolated, and the host is banned from the service, but it can happen. Therefore, even in rented houses or hotels, always keep your belongings (money, phone, passport, etc.) in a safe place or take them with you.How to sign up and get a discount on Airbnb?
Those who sign up for Airbnb and invite acquaintances through a link provided by friends can earn discounts on seasonal rentals. Now that you know how Airbnb works, sign up for Airbnb through this link and get a discount of up to R$179 on your first trip.
See more articles about the events in the region here
Participe da conversa