Short-term Rental News Digest – January 2023

The beginning of a new year brings a sense of optimism and new energy. By looking at January’s headlines, it’s clear that several stakeholders in the short-term rental industry feel the same. They’re ready to take the bull by the horns and help hosts and property managers deal more effectively with common issues like excessive noise and sustainability. 

In 2023, may you experience the same tenacity. If you’ve been putting off daunting tasks, there’s no time like the beginning of a year to set the tone for things to come. 

In addition to looking at a few new initiatives set to help property managers and hosts, in this digest, we also explore a couple of travel trends. Use these insights into traveler behavior to adjust your marketing plan and create a dream destination for your guests.    

Minut Releases First-ever Outdoor Noise Monitoring Tool

Proptech company Minut has launched a new sensor to help the hospitality industry manage noise levels. According to their blog, it’s the first outdoor and indoor short-term rental sensor in the world. With the help of machine learning, wind noise that can cause wrong results gets filtered out. 

In addition to keeping tabs on noise levels indoors as well as outdoors, it can be used to track temperature and humidity and detect motion. Another unique selling point is that it integrates with Airbnb and over 25 property management tools (including iGMS). This means that hosts can contact their guests directly via the Airbnb platform. 

First Sustainability Certification for Rentals

Sustonica, the first sustainability certification aimed at vacation rentals, has announced that it will launch its “Committed” program. By taking a look at factors like water conservation, waste management, and energy efficiency, they will give recognition to environmentally friendly listings across the world. 

To receive a certificate, vacation rentals must adhere to at least 12 of their 40 guidelines. Certification is valid for a year and can be completed conveniently via a WhatsApp video call. 

Staycations Remain Popular Among UK Travelers

Even though international travel is back on the cards, staycations will remain popular in the new year. RSM UK, an audit, tax, and consulting firm, completed a survey that found that 36% of participants are planning to book a short staycation of max four days in 2023. 

Staycations are particularly popular among travelers in their late 30s and early 40s. It’s also a popular getaway for families. 

That said, the travel industry still faces two major challenges — rising costs and staff shortages. This makes it even more important that hosts focus on delivering value and master their pricing strategy if they want to remain competitive in the new year. 

Airbnb Releases Trending Destinations for UK Travelers

Airbnb has analyzed recent searches on its platform to create a list of the most popular destinations for 2023 among travelers from the UK. Topping the list is Málaga in Spain. In fact, Spain is the most popular country, boasting three cities in total.

France and Australia feature two destinations respectively, while Turkey, New Zealand, and the Netherlands all have one destination to have made the international list. 

Airbnb also created a list specifically for trending destinations in England, Scotland, and Wales. Tyne and Wear in England top that list, followed by Edinburgh in Scotland. 

Other trending UK destinations for 2023 are:

• Cardiff, Wales
• Manchester, England 
• Newport, Wales
• Sheffield, England
• Portsmouth, England

Saudi Arabia Plans Own Tourism Portal

Saudi Arabia is becoming an even hotter destination. As part of its plan to boost foreign tourism and create more investment opportunities, the Kingdom is set to launch a property rental platform. 

This portal will be an official tourism service and is will offer competition to mainstream global platforms like Airbnb. Interested rental owners will have to get a permit, show proof of ownership, and agree to publish prices inclusive of all taxes. 

New Study Reveals Habits of LGBTQ+ Travelers

MMGY Global, a leading integrated marketing company that specializes in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries, has released a new report, Portrait of LGBTQ+ Travelers in America. This report was compiled by taking a closer look at the travel behavior, attitudes, and sentiments of over 3,000 American LGBTQ+ travelers. 

Here are some of its key findings:

• Representation in destination marketing material is extremely important to them.
• Half are concerned about their safety when choosing a destination. 
• More than half identify that state politics concerning their sexual identity also play a role in their choice to travel.
• They’re more likely to travel solo.
• Their biggest motivation for traveling is to relax and discover new places. 
• 40% plan their trips around LGBTQ+ events and attractions.

Airbnb Joins The Code to Help Reduce Child Trafficking

To mark National Trafficking Awareness Day in the United States which was held on January 11, Airbnb has joined The Code, a multi-stakeholder initiative with the goal of helping the travel and tourism sector prevent child trafficking. They’re the first home-sharing platform to sign the practical guidelines. 

By taking the pledge, Airbnb will: 

• Train its staff on how to prevent sexual exploitation and report suspected cases
• Share more information with hosts on how to identify victims and report suspicious behavior
• Expand their Supplier Code of Ethics
• Engage and partner with stakeholders to reduce child trafficking.

Airbnb has also expanded its law enforcement portal to make it easier for hosts, neighbors, and guests to report concerns.