Short term accommodation refers to furnished self-contained apartments or houses that are rented out for short periods of time, usually as an alternative to hotels. These properties are available for either a few weeks or months at a time, and guests can expect to enjoy amenities such as kitchens and living rooms. However, there are several things to consider when selecting short term accommodation. Guests should pay close attention to location, price, reviews, and policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on short-term rentals, especially in countries hardest hit by the virus or respite Bli Bli with economies more reliant on tourism, like Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Spain (AirDNA, 2021; AllTheRooms, 2021). In these regions, occupancy rates dropped more than 50%, and some platforms saw their market share plummet as a result. In contrast, hotel performance was relatively stable, reflecting the fact that hotels are generally better prepared to react to a crisis than home-sharing platforms.
As the market recovers, many hosts have adjusted their policies in order to remain competitive. Some have reduced the number of nights they allow their homes to be occupied, while others have increased prices. Many have also reintroduced cleaning services and implemented new cancellation rules. In addition, some have started implementing a variety of additional services to help their guests, such as contactless check-in via apps or publishing recommendations on cleaning protocols.
Some of these changes have been driven by legislation, but most are the result of a desire to attract and retain guests. For example, in New York City, which has long been a popular destination for tourists, residents and business travelers, the city’s new registration program is intended to end a free-for-all that sees locals rent their apartments by the week or night to visitors. This has been particularly problematic for regular tenants whose buildings have become “hotels” with strangers in their hallways or parties in rented units.
Another issue affecting the industry is the need to make it more inclusive to people with different ages, disabilities, and lifestyles. This has been a focus of the UN’s Sustainable Tourism Initiative, which aims to increase the inclusion of these groups in all aspects of tourism. It also aims to promote and protect heritage and cultural sites and support the development of sustainable tourism practices.
As the industry continues to grow, it will be interesting to watch how it evolves over the next few years. Whether it is through the growth of online booking or the development of more affordable and accessible alternatives, we will likely see an increased interest in short-term rental accommodation. In a world where travel is increasingly becoming global and local, this type of accommodation may become the norm for many travellers. With this in mind, it is vital that the industry continue to work with governments and other stakeholders to ensure its continued success. This will be critical as the world continues to face the challenges of a changing climate.
