A Note on the Failure of AirBNBs
Why Hotels are the Better Option!
When traveling, either domestically or internationally, it is never a decent or “good” idea to book your stay at an AirBnB. There is a good reason my team and I stand by our “Hotels Only” policy. It is not simply because we happen to like hotels.
Not at all.
We support the concept of Airbnb, but not the execution. In our view, the company is driving itself into the ground. Based in San Francisco, Airbnb has expanded all around the world. However, because of this rapid growth, we believe the company has failed to maintain consistent standards and oversight across many of its properties and systems, including aspects of its mobile platform. The company is also facing increasing regulatory pressure in several European countries, including Germany.
These are not unreasonable regulations. They are standards that many AirBnB properties struggle or refuse to follow for what some operators describe as “profit-sharing reasons.” These standards include maintaining clean properties, carrying proper insurance coverage for both the property and guests during their stay, and offering basic amenities appropriate to the property.
Some AirBnB operators argue that such requirements would hurt profitability. Yet hotels around the world comply with these regulations every day while continuing to operate successfully. From Motel 6 properties in the United States to luxury resorts such as Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, hotels are expected to meet operational, safety, and service standards, and many even incorporate those standards into their marketing.
When a hotel becomes operational, it must comply with licensing, safety, and insurance requirements designed to protect guests during their stay. In many cases, hotels are legally responsible for maintaining safe accommodations and providing support services throughout a guest’s visit.
Concierge services are another important distinction. Many hotels rated three stars and above — including brands such as Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott International and their various sub-brands — offer concierge assistance or related guest services as part of the experience.
AirBnBs generally do not provide comparable support services. In many cases, the check-in process may involve little more than retrieving a key from a lockbox or hidden location. While this may work for some travelers, others may prefer the structure, reliability, and assistance provided by a traditional hotel environment.
In the United States especially, some people view AirBnBs as part of a larger “get-rich-quick” approach to short-term rentals, where travelers may pay premium prices while receiving inconsistent quality, limited service, or minimal accountability in return.
You may pay more for a traditional hotel, but at least you generally know what to expect. Depending on the property, you may receive room service, on-site dining, amenities, concierge assistance, fitness facilities, airport shuttle service, and professional customer support throughout your stay.
I recommend checking out our article on Brooke’s hotel stays and visiting our website to learn more at brookeintheairtravel.net.
