With the rise of home-sharing in the hospitality and tourism sector, global travel communities like Airbnb are helping discerning travellers discover new cities, meet new people and customise their journey.
Since its launch in 2008, Airbnb has recorded over 500 million guest arrivals across its six million properties in 191 countries.
Moreover, with its ‘Experiences’ platform, Airbnb is tapping into local, authentic and immersive travel experiences that form a major part of the home-sharing economy. Adding to this, Anupam Sehgal, head of marketing, Cravatex Brands – FILA and Vans, says, “I have been an Airbnb user for a long time now, and for me, it’s all about local discoveries, when I travel for work. I get the luxury of an entire home with the added benefit of authentic local insights from the hosts, which truly makes for a wholesome stay. Another thing that always stands out for me, is the consistency and exceptional standards homes.” airbnb.co.in
New-age business travel trends:
Millennials and Gen Z business travellers
The rise of interest among business travellers for Airbnb accommodations is prevalent among millennials and Generation Z (Gen Z), who now make up the majority of professionals in the workplace. Airbnb provides these individuals with a choice to strike a balance between work and personal life — they can bring in their colleagues for a quick gathering or can have the apartment to themselves to relax or work in a leisure setting.
Local Experiences for team-building
Today’s business travellers often take time out from their hectic schedules and explore local communities. Airbnb Experiences offer a range of activities curated by local experts like walking or biking around town, boating activities, culinary experiences and special corporate wellness retreats. These experiences help indivduals to rejuvenate and bond better with other teammates.
Turning business into bleisure
Leisure is increasingly seen as a vital component of the business travel experience. Airbnb has listings for blesiure trips, urging guests to extend their stay and indulge in immersive experiences in the region.
Airbnb for Work
Alvan Aiau Yong, regional lead, Airbnb for Work believes that this platform makes it easier to travel for work without sacrificing the comforts of home. He says, “With features like wifi, workstations and all the essentials for business travel, Airbnb’s work-ready homes raise the quality of all listings across the board. Business travellers are now encouraged to stay the weekend exploring local neighbourhoods and trying out locally curated Experiences.”
Airbnb for Work cover three areas: Experiences on Airbnb for team-building; Airbnb homes for off-sites and meetings; and options
for business travellers looking for ‘Work-ready homes’.
- Work-ready homes are equipped with amenities such as wifi, self check-in among others.
- Team-building experiences by Airbnb are worth your time. From a ramen-making class to a canoeing lesson, these off-beat activities led by experts are effective to bond with your co-workers outside of the office.
- Shift your meeting venues from traditional corporate spaces to off-site locations such as castles and tree houses that are listed under the Airbnb platform. airbnbforwork.com
Masaba Gupta, designer says “When I travel for work, I usually opt for Airbnb because of location and convenience. Between meetings and fittings, my work trips are quite hectic, so I like staying close to where I work. I usually travel solo and enjoy staying at an Airbnb apartment because there is enough space to relax and to get my work done with ease. The 24-hour check-in feature makes it super helpful even with late night flights.”
Gautam Sinha, founder and creative director, Nappa Dori says “After a long day of business meetings, all I look forward to is the convenience and comfort of a personal space, which is why I always opt for an Airbnb. Aside from the ease of booking, the homes are truly pleasant and well-equipped for a seamless business travel experience. I get more than just a comfortable stay. Plus, the solace of a home away from home and that is a real boon especially on work trips.”
