Hotels and Airbnb Target Locals: The Staycation Revolution
Hotels and Airbnb are changing their strategy. They now want local customers. People do not need to travel far. They can enjoy a break close to home. This trend is growing fast. It offers new options for everyone. This article explains why this is happening. It also shows how you can benefit.
Why Hotels and Airbnb Want Local Guests
The travel industry faced big challenges. The pandemic changed how people travel. Many could not go abroad. So they looked for local options. Hotels and Airbnb saw this change. They started to market to locals. This helped them survive tough times.
Now, even with travel back, locals still book stays. They want a change of scenery. They want to relax without going far. A New York Times report says staycations rose by 40% in 2022. This trend is here to stay.
Benefits for Local Customers
Locals get many benefits from this trend. They can discover their city anew. They enjoy hotel amenities without travel stress. It is cheaper than a long trip. Plus, it supports local businesses.
- No need for flights or long drives
- Save time and money
- Experience luxury close to home
- Help local economy grow
How Hotels Are Attracting Local Guests
Hotels use smart strategies to attract locals. They offer day passes for pools and spas. They create special packages for nearby residents. Some have "work from hotel" deals. These include fast wifi and quiet rooms.
Many hotels partner with local attractions. They offer discounts to museums or restaurants. This makes the stay more valuable. A hospitality study shows that 60% of hotels now target locals.
Examples of Hotel Offers
Here are real examples of hotel offers for locals:
- Weekend staycation packages with breakfast included
- Day use rooms for remote work or relaxation
- Spa day passes without overnight stay
- Local discounts for dining and entertainment
How Airbnb Is Focusing on Local Stays
Airbnb also targets locals. They promote "nearby getaways" on their platform. Hosts create experiences for local guests. These include cooking classes or city tours. Airbnb saw a 30% increase in local bookings in 2023.
The company added filters for nearby stays. This makes it easy to find places close to home. They also offer flexible cancellation policies. This appeals to locals who may book last minute.
Airbnb's New Features
Airbnb introduced several features for local travelers:
- "Explore nearby" search option
- Experiences hosted by locals for locals
- Special discounts for repeat local guests
- Enhanced cleaning protocols for safety
The Economic Impact of Local Stays
Local stays help the economy. Money spent stays in the community. This supports jobs and small businesses. A Brookings Institution study found that local travel generates $50 billion annually.
Hotels and hosts earn steady income. They are less dependent on tourists. This makes their business more stable. It also helps cities recover from economic downturns.
Benefits for Local Businesses
When locals book stays, they also spend on:
- Restaurants and cafes
- Shops and markets
- Entertainment venues
- Transport services
Practical Tips for Booking Local Stays
Want to try a local stay? Here are some tips to get the best experience.
1. Research Offers
Look for special local rates. Many hotels have hidden deals for residents. Check their websites or call directly. Airbnb often shows "local discounts" on listings.
2. Read Reviews
See what other locals say. They might mention things tourists overlook. Like noise levels or nearby gems.
3. Check Amenities
Make sure the place has what you need. For example, good wifi for working. Or a kitchen if you plan to cook.
4. Book Off-Peak
Prices are lower on weekdays. Or during non-holiday periods. You can save money and avoid crowds.
5. Support Local
Choose places that partner with local businesses. This way, your stay benefits the whole community.
Real Examples of Successful Local Stay Programs
Many hotels and Airbnb hosts succeed with local targeting. Here are some examples.
Example 1: The Local Package
A hotel in Chicago offers a "Chicagoan Special". It includes a room, breakfast, and tickets to a local museum. This package is popular year-round. It books out weeks in advance.
Example 2: Work From Hotel
A New York hotel created a day rate for remote workers. It includes a desk, fast internet, and lunch. Many locals use it for a change of pace. They report higher productivity.
Example 3: Airbnb Experience
An Airbnb host in Seattle offers a "Secrets of the City" tour. Only locals can book it. It shows hidden spots tourists miss. It has over 200 five-star reviews.
FAQ Section
1. Why are hotels targeting locals now?
Hotels need more customers. Locals provide steady business. It helps them survive when tourism is low.
2. Are local stays cheaper than traditional travel?
Often yes. You save on flights and long transport. But luxury stays can still be expensive.
3. How can I find good local deals?
Check hotel websites for resident rates. Use Airbnb's "nearby" filter. Sign up for local travel newsletters.
4. Is it safe to stay locally during health concerns?
Most places follow strict cleaning rules. Check their safety policies before booking.
5. Can I book a local stay for just a few hours?
Some hotels offer day rates. Airbnb has options for shorter stays. Always check the listing details.
6. Do locals get special treatment?
Sometimes. Hotels may offer extra perks to residents. Like free upgrades or welcome drinks.
7. How does this trend affect tourism?
It adds a new market. Tourism still exists. But now there is more variety in travel options.
Conclusion
Hotels and Airbnb targeting locals is a smart move. It helps businesses and customers. Locals enjoy breaks without travel stress. They discover their city in new ways. The economy benefits from kept local money.
This trend will likely grow. More hotels and hosts will create local offers. So next time you need a break, look close to home. You might find a perfect getaway nearby.
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