Airbnb is no longer really to present! This American platform, valued at more than a billion dollars, offers more than 1 million accommodation units worldwide, and has already been used by several million travelers since its creation in 2008. This site is now essential in the world of international tourism. But does it represent a referencing and visibility tool for gites or bed and breakfast in France?
Airbnb vs. Booking.com
Airbnb and Booking.com may both be booking platforms for a short stay. However, these two sites have not always been frequented by the same type of clientele. On Airbnb, we see a high attendance of young users, often looking for a new experience on an international scale, an exceptional cultural discovery. They are mainly young Internet users who are looking to travel for fun, or to go on family vacations.
The same types of travelers also frequent Booking.com but with a more pronounced trend towards business travelers. A market that Airbnb seems to fit well in recent years, however, with the Business Travel Ready label.
Owners of bed and breakfasts, cottages, guest houses, and apartments will not, however, receive the same commission from these two online travel agencies. On the one hand, Airbnb's commission is essentially paid by the traveler themselves, with a rate of around 3% for the owner. On the other hand, on Booking.com, the commission is entirely paid by the host, with a rate of 15% to 25%.
Airbnb for whom?
Those who have already tried the adventure on Airnb will confirm it to you, the two essential criteria to consider when considering taking advantage of a short-term rental on the platform are: the positioning of the accommodation and its geographical location.
Entry-level housing will find its place on Airbnb to meet demand that is essentially affordable. But very high-end housing can also be of interest to Airbnb customers in the sense that it will stand out and make a difference.
Generally, Airbnb users tend to choose a higher priced apartment, house, or room if the owner does not live there. The reverse is just as valid, some users are ready to rent a room at the inhabitant, for a lower price, with the presence of the owner.
Accommodation in cities, including a world-famous tourist city, is easier to rent on Airbnb. But a room, a house or an apartment in the countryside can also appeal to tourists, if it is a well-known place. In general, travelers mainly base their choice on the accessibility of accommodation. The ideal would therefore be to have accommodation that is close to the means of transport. Users also prioritize guest houses, cottages or guest houses located abroad. The ideal solution for a safe holiday.
Before offering accommodation on Airbnb, it is therefore important to take these different indicators into account. But it is also advisable to learn about the legal aspect associated with this type of activity, to know the errors to avoid.
