The office as we know it is dead. This was the defining statement made by Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky when the company announced that Airbnb employees could work from anywhere in the world.
Airbnb’s Live and Work Anywhere initiative recognizes destinations embracing the potential of remote work. The company has since expanded its focus by publishing a guide for governments and destinations outlining recommendations for how communities can benefit economically from the rise in remote workers.
Airbnb says its Guide to Live and Work Anywhere: How Communities Can Benefit from Remote Workers is based on Airbnb’s insights, data and experiences in partnering with 20 destinations that are embracing the potential of remote work.
It calls for low-cost and expeditious remote worker visa programmes, proposes model tax and financial incentives for remote workers and employers, and recommends essential amenities like internet connectivity and community support for workers and their families.
Each destination now has a custom-built hub showcasing some of the best local long-term stay listings while linking to important information from the destination partners relating to entry requirements and tax policies, where applicable.
It’s all about the ease of travel for guests who can ultimately book longer stays.
The 20 destinations include:
- Lisbon
- Cape Town
- Dubai
- Tampa Bay
- Mexico City
- Bali
- Brindisi, Puglia (Italy)
- Rural France
- Baja California Sur
- Malta
- Canary Islands
- Buenos Aires
- Tulsa
- Queensland
- Salzkammergut
- Palm Springs
- Friuli-Venezia Giulia
- Colombia
- Caribbean
- Thailand
It’s clear that as remote work becomes more common in many places, it’s changing how and why people travel. Forecast trends show this could lead to more guests interested in spaces that help them do their jobs anywhere.
For hosts, this means providing the right amenities, setting up a dedicated workspace, and promoting this space to find the right audience.
Fast and reliable wifi is a non-negotiable
An internet connection is necessary for remote workers seeking fast, reliable wifi to support video calls and other tasks. Hosts can verify wifi speeds for their listings without leaving the Airbnb app. It also lets you display your speedy connection directly on your listing page.
Hosts can use wifi boosters and extenders to improve performance in areas with weak access. Airbnb also suggests learning to check your router remotely to monitor your wifi.
A dedicated workspace is a must
A dedicated workspace has become a critical amenity. Listing this amenity means having a table or desk for exclusive work-from-home use. It should also have convenient access to a power outlet and a comfortable chair.
Consider couples who book your vacation rental and might need separate working stations. Let guests know about these features by selecting Dedicated workspace in the Amenities section of your listing.
But these two amenities are the very basics you should have. Delight guests can work from anywhere by going the extra mile with value-added touches to make working remotely pleasant and productive. Airbnb suggests the following:
- Ergonomic support. A laptop stand, an ergonomic office chair, and an adjustable footrest will help ease a long working day.
- Good lighting. Natural light is excellent, but a desk lamp is even better, especially if your guest has to work in the evening.
- Coffee maker and kettle. Many guests appreciate a caffeine fix to help them get going. You can even provide tea and coffee – or offer multiple brewing options, like a French press and an automatic coffee maker.
- Alternate workspaces. The living room, dining room, or patio can offer a refreshing change of scenery—and allow multiple people to work simultaneously.
- Office supplies. Simple items like new pens, whiteboards and notepads often come in handy, while access to a printer ensures a star rating and review.
- Tech support. A computer monitor, smart speakers, and extra phone chargers and adapters take your workspace to the next level.
- Video conferencing backdrop. Make your space appealing with attractive wallpaper, plants, or art for guests who are frequently on video calls.
- Noise reduction. Textiles like curtains, rugs, blankets, and pillows can help soften noisy distractions.
Promote your work-friendly space
Now that you’ve primed your space for remote working guests make sure to add these details to your listing description and amenities and include photos so guests can see what they’re booking.
- Take advantage of search filters. When browsing listings, many guests apply filters to find spaces with the amenities they want, so check off Dedicated workspace and anything else you offer.
- Update your photos and captions. Guests may check out your listing photos before reading the description, so make sure your images include any workspaces you provide.
Communicate with your guests to keep them informed about your workspace conveniences, and it will also save them packing space knowing you have things like a computer monitor or printer.
If you want to get more bookings from digital nomads and bleisure travellers, these careful considerations should set you on the right path to Airbnb listing success.