How do Airbnb’s compare to hotels?

For many people, Hotels have always been the first thing that came to mind when organising accommodation for a trip away. However, due to vast advancements in modern day technology revolutionising the way we approach staying abroad, the hotel industry has seen a decrease in bookings as a direct result of the new competition.

Do hotels still offer something you cannot get from a homestay?

The decision whether chose a hotel or a homestay for accommodation when staying away is down to the personal preference of the individual making the booking. There are many benefits that you can get from choosing to stay in a hotel rather than an Airbnb/homestay. With hotels you can be safe in the knowledge that anything you need is a phone call away, and while most amenities aren’t in your room upon arrival, the hotel is sure to have designated areas where guests can do things such as ironing, laundry or using computers. Hotels also have things that a lot of Airbnb’s don’t provide, such as the basics of towels and toiletries, which take up room in your suitcase.

Hotels are particularly attractive for families as the hotel entertainment areas are a great way for kids to keep themselves busy while the parents can relax and enjoy some time alone. The deals in which hotels can offer such as free breakfasts and meals have a plethora of choice as well, lowering the risk of unsatisfied kids as a result of picky food tastes.

Customer service in hotels often trumps that of Airbnb’s also. If customers feel as though they got more than their money’s worth as a result of above-and-beyond customer service, then they’ll not budge when it comes to booking again.

Why homestays can compete with hotels

There are many people who feel that like the solitude that comes with having your own place abroad, without the interruptions of neighboring guests in nearby areas is more appealing than being catered for during their time away. With Airbnb’s you can really scope in on what you want with your accommodation, such as choosing exactly what amenities you want when you arrive; hot tubs, close to the city centre etc., like that of hotels but more refined.

The authenticity of the holiday also is altered, especially abroad, as staying in a locals home will give you a more realistic experience of that surrounding city. Chances are the host will probably meet you upon arrival and tell you all the hidden clues that hotels might not have at hand, so exchanging conversations is already a nice way of integrating with the people of the city.

How is the hotel industry dealing with the changes to their sector?

Hotel owners have become wary over the rapid expansion of the lodging market that is largely due to Airbnb. With Airbnb now starting to target business travellers, as well as the target market of young travellers on a budget, it’s heating up more and more, as the dynamic of accommodation continues to take on new forms. When it comes to large events such as weddings or conference events, the number of guests needing accommodation will increase tenfold and so the large capacity of hotels will be a massive advantage over Airbnb’s, despite eight-10 bedroom sized housing being available, splitting the overall price.

Joe Cobb, Executive Commercial Manager for Lake District Country Hotels, a popular wedding venue in Cumbria, said: "Here at Lake District Country Hotels, we have learned of the new route to market for some accommodation types, with one being Airbnb. This is something that we will continue to monitor as it is no doubt a concept that has been received well, although the nature of our hotels, being country manors, have positioned us in a snug position between the two, as we continue to recognise guests want a more authentic experience that is reflective of their surroundings and culture."

Hotels are discovering ways to compete though. Some are dabbling with the idea of purchasing a cluster of rooms surrounding a communal living area, imitating that of renting a house on Airbnb.

So, while Airbnb may have changed the way people stay in accommodation abroad, the hotelier has responded by following suit as an addition to their traditional hoteling experience, ensuring that the market share they thought they would lose is getting split. The broadened market is a reflection of customer tastes changing, demanding more from the hospitality industry as they try to craft an entirely personal experience.

Phoebe Leylanis a copywriter, a content writer and web content optimiser, Ms. Leyland has built a strong foundation in writing as a graduate from the University of East Anglia, with an undergraduate BA hons in History and Politics and MA in Marketing