Airbnb saw a 30% increase in hotel room and apartment bookings | kbnmart

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With the Summer Olympics and Paralympics just weeks away, Airbnb has seen a significant increase in travel bookings, reflecting the growing global interest in the event. Travelers from more than 160 countries and territories have already booked stays with Airbnb during the sporting event. As of March 31, nights booked during the Olympics were five times (400%) higher than in the Paris region at the same time last year.

Global Interest and Booking Trends

Paris remains the most searched city on Airbnb, with a nearly 40% increase in active listings in the area, ensuring ample availability for guests. This increase in listings is crucial to accommodate the expected influx of visitors for the Olympics. In terms of growth in bookings, Asian countries lead the way. Airbnb saw the highest increase in travelers coming from India, China, Hong Kong and Japan. India alone saw a nearly 30% increase in bookings for stays in and around Paris during the Games.

Explore Beyond Paris

Besides the bustling city of Paris, Indian travellers also explore vibrant locations such as Nice, Aubervilliers, Colombes and Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine. These areas, including major Olympic venues such as Colombes (field hockey) and Chateauroux (shooting events), as well as football host cities such as Saint-Etienne, Lyon, Nantes, Nice and Bordeaux, are seeing a lot of interest. This strategic distribution of Olympic events across France highlights lesser-known regions and historic cities, enhancing a broader experience of the country for visitors during the Games.

Insights from Airbnb Leadership

“The rise in bookings for Paris reflects an exciting trend among Indian travelers, who are increasingly planning trips around iconic sporting events such as the Olympics, demonstrating their growing appetite for unique global experiences. Interestingly, while Paris remains a top destination, these travelers are also venturing beyond traditional tourist hotspots to explore cities like Saint-Denis and Bordeaux to watch their favorite sports. At Airbnb, we are excited to connect travelers with unique accommodations that will elevate their travel experiences for the 2024 Olympic and Summer Games,” said Amanpreet Bajaj, Managing Director of Airbnb India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The Economic Impact of Airbnb Bookings

According to a study, Airbnb stays during the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics are expected to generate €2,000 (over $2,170) for the typical host in the Paris region. This increase in bookings is expected to have a total economic impact of around €1 billion (over $1 billion), supporting nearly 7,300 full-time jobs in the country. This economic boost highlights the important role Airbnb plays in driving tourism and supporting local economies during major global events like the Olympics.

Wider visitor experiences

The widespread interest in locations outside of Paris indicates a shift in traveler preferences, with many seeking to explore diverse regions and experience France’s rich cultural heritage. This trend is evident in the popularity of cities such as Nice, known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, and Bordeaux, renowned for its world-class wine regions. These destinations, among others, offer travelers unique experiences beyond the usual tourist attractions.

Airbnb’s role in improving travel experiences

Airbnb plays a pivotal role in enhancing travel experiences by offering unique accommodations that cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. From charming apartments in historic neighborhoods to luxurious villas with stunning views, Airbnb offers options that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. This diversity of accommodations is especially attractive during the Olympics, as it offers visitors the opportunity to stay in unique properties near sports venues.

Conclusion

As the world gears up for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Airbnb is excited to connect travelers with unique accommodations, ensuring they have an unforgettable experience during this global celebration of sport. The significant increase in bookings, especially from Indian travelers, underscores the growing trend of planning trips around major sporting events. With its wide range of listings, flexible scheduling, and commitment to excellent customer service, Airbnb is poised to play a key role in facilitating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for all attendees of the Paris Olympic Games. Plan your stay with Airbnb today and be a part of this historic event while exploring the beauty and diversity of France.