When it comes to choosing where to sleep on holiday, 73 percent of Australians surveyed said they preferred sleeping in hotels rather than at someone’s else home through Airbnb.
Well, that’s according to a recent survey conducted by comparison website Comparetravelinsurance.com.au.
According to the results, Aussies still harboured reservations (pun intended!) over home sharing services such as Airbnb, choosing instead to hand their hard-earned cash to a concierge at a hotel on the grounds that hotels were more reliable, more convenient and safer.
These results may come as a surprise to the industry and to the public at large considering the massive growth of Airbnb in recent years, which is hovering around a 106 percent year-on-year growth rate.
Natalie Ball, director of Comparetravelinsurance.com.au, says that the survey results indicate the Aussies just trust hotels over home sharing services:
“Australians have always been quick to embrace trends like Uber and Airtasker but never more so than with services like Airbnb. We have readily accepted the sharing economy but expect great quality service in return. When it comes down to it, value for money will always prevail. Our survey findings reveal that despite the great benefits of Airbnb, many consumers still find hotels to be a more trusted mode of accommodation.”
Natalie Ball, Director, Comparetravelinsurance.com.au.
“From a travel insurance perspective, whether you have booked an Airbnb or a hotel room, the same rules apply. The onus would be on you to protect yourself and your belongings. Similarly, if you are sharing the lodging with other guests or a host, you would be required to lock away your belongings in a private room.”
“We strongly advise those using share home accommodation options to exercise a good deal of caution. Ultimately, if you are staying in a stranger’s home it’s up to you to use common sense in assessing any potential risks. If anything about the situation seems suspicious or fraudulent, report it to Airbnb. And of course, if your personal safety is being threatened contact local police or emergency services immediately.”
Sydney has been ranked as the top 8th Airbnb listed city in the world with more listings and users than San Francisco.