The rental market revealed that nearly 40% of guest spending, excluding accommodation, went to businesses and services located in the same neighborhoods where they stayed
SANTO DOMINGO.– The digital platform Airbnb revealed new trends in the travel and consumption habits of Dominicans, highlighting how stays in its accommodations contribute to the development of domestic tourism and boost the economy of host communities.
The company explained that a growing number of domestic travelers are exploring destinations off the beaten tourist track, driven by a desire for unique experiences with their partner, friends, or family. This trend, it noted, is creating new opportunities for small businesses, restaurants, entrepreneurs, and service providers in various provinces across the country.
Emerging destinations that spark travelers' interest
With an offering that includes mountains, valleys, beaches, natural spaces and places full of history, several Dominican locations are beginning to gain prominence among those who wish to discover other facets of the national territory.
Among the featured destinations are Baní, in the province of Peravia; Barahona; Monte Cristi; Pedernales and San José de Ocoa, locations that stand out for their natural attractions, their cultural richness and their ecological and rural tourism offerings.
Savings on accommodation boost local consumption
According to data shared by Airbnb, over 50% of guests chose the platform because it offered a private space for their group, while 50% prioritized a convenient location. Additionally, nearly 20% stated they were looking to reduce their travel expenses.
The company noted that these preferences allow visitors to stay in residential areas and get closer to the daily lives of its inhabitants, rather than limiting their experiences to exclusively tourist areas.
In this regard, the results also highlighted the role of hosts as intermediaries between travelers and local businesses. Nearly 60% of guests received restaurant recommendations from their hosts, while 20% received suggestions for places to visit or outdoor activities.
Airbnb noted that over 40% of the recommended establishments and attractions were located in the same neighborhood where guests were staying. This trend facilitates the discovery of new dining, recreational, and shopping options.
Guest spending benefits the communities
The report also highlighted the link between reduced accommodation costs and increased spending on goods and services during vacations. Approximately 70% of travelers reported saving money by booking through Airbnb, and of that group, more than 50% used some of those savings to increase their spending on other activities during their stay.
The company also reported that approximately 40% of total visitor spending, excluding accommodation costs, was spent at establishments and services located in the same area as the reserved property.
According to data presented by the platform, average spending reached approximately $195 per person per day. This trend, the company explained, can boost the economic activity of restaurants, shops, recreational activities, and other businesses that are part of the community economy.
However, price remains a determining factor when choosing where to stay. At least 70% of travelers surveyed indicated that cost is an important factor when comparing Airbnb with other accommodation options.
Airbnb reaffirms its commitment to Dominican tourism
Based on these findings, Airbnb expressed its interest in continuing to support the growth of local tourism in the Dominican Republic by connecting visitors, hosts, and communities.
The platform argued that the interest in exploring less traditional destinations represents an opportunity to expand the sector's economic benefits and, at the same time, allow travelers to discover the country's natural, cultural, and gastronomic diversity.
In this way, the company highlighted that accommodation decisions not only influence the experience of those who travel, but also have repercussions on the commercial activity of the visited locations, generating opportunities for businesses and families that depend on tourism.
Recommended readings:
- Airbnb conditions support for the registration of short-term rental properties in the Dominican Republic; suggests it be promoted through the National Congress
- Ministry of Tourism proposes agency for mandatory registration of short-term rental operations in the Dominican Republic
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