There is no denying that Airbnb accommodation has opened up the self-catering sector of both holiday and business travel by offering a greater choice of affordable accommodation. However, there are advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb stays for business travellers, and cheaper does not necessarily equal better value.
Advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb stays for business travellers
Advantages
Low cost option
Airbnb accommodation can prove a lot cheaper than self-catering alternatives or hotel stays, especially for extended stays.
For tight budgets, kitchen amenities offer cost savings through reduced eating out expenses. This is especially beneficial for larger teams, where these costs can soon mount up.
Variety
Airbnb offers a good selection of properties, providing options for the individual needs and preferences of business travellers.
Location, location, location!
Additionally, properties are available in diverse locations, providing accommodation closer to remote sites for example, thus reducing commuting costs.
Normally located in residential areas, they provide a more authentically ‘local’ experience for employees working away from home, enhancing wellbeing through a sense of community.
However, for companies seeking value for money accommodation as well as enhanced benefits for employees, Airbnb accommodation also has drawbacks.
Disadvantages
Inconsistency
Accommodation standards can vary enormously. Quality and condition is not uniform and can lead to dissatisfaction or even discomfort for business travellers.
issues with hosts, such as last-minute cancellations and communication problems, can add to the complexity of booking self-catering accommodation and increase stress for guests.
Amenities/services supplied as standard
Because of their individual nature, Airbnb properties may not provide quality services that would be standard in hotel accommodation, such as:
Daily housekeeping
High speed internet
Meet and greet service
Quick resolution of maintenance or equipment issues
Damage policy
Therefore companies could incur additional unbudgeted costs.
The difference in quality and facilities across multiple properties can result in disappointment or disagreements among guests. In addition, differences in check-in/out times can lead to logistical complications.
Paperwork!
Accommodating larger groups means dealing with several individual accommodation providers. This is time-consuming and produces more paperwork than one provider of multiple properties or a hotel.
Also, booking is normally on a credit card, which may not suit businesses who would rather pay on invoice than up front, as arrangements can change.
Safety/security
Properties may not be located in ‘safe neighbourhoods’, posing potential safety risks, while the security of the property is the responsibility of each host and may not include secure entry systems.
Compliance/insurance issues
Airbnb properties should comply with corporate travel policies, insurance requirements and local/national regulations. Should the unforeseen happen and an accident occur, companies and their employees need to be protected from any risk.
Individual companies have to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb stays for business travellers, according to their requirements. At first glance there may be cost savings and flexibility in accommodation and location. However, Airbnb accommodation may not provide the best value for money or a standard of service to enhance the wellbeing of employees working away from home. For more on this, you may like to read our blog, ‘Are your employees happy when working away from home?’
Advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb stays for business travellers
At Arte Stays, we have more than a decade of experience in providing serviced accommodation in east London with every amenity for the perfect working away from home environment:
Recently refurbished, luxury interiors
High speed internet connection
Space for individuals and teams
High level of security
Personal greeters on arrival
Guest service team
Dedicated housekeeping service
All-inclusive bills
Flexible contracts
When compared to the advantages and disadvantages of Airbnb stays for business travellers, these benefits add up to exceptional value for money for our corporate clients, which is why they book with us again and again. Take a look at our portfolio of properties or contact the Arte Stays team to discuss the requirements for your team!
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