Airbnb
is rolling out new online content hubs with information for people looking for
long-term stays where they can work remotely.
The
company first announced the “Live and Work Anywhere” initiative in late April
in tandem with its own policy to allow Airbnb employees to travel and work
around the world.
The
company invited destinations to apply to be part of the promotional effort –
asking them to describe what makes their destination appealing for remote work,
entry and visa requirements, availability of strong Wi-Fi and cellular service and
examples of opportunities for remote workers to connect with the local
community.
Now
Airbnb has selected 20 destinations that will receive landing pages on the
platform that are intended to serve as a “one-stop shop” for remote workers,
with information about long-term stay listings, entry requirements, tax
policies and more.
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“In
the two years since the pandemic began, a new world of travel has emerged in
which many workers are untethered to an office. In collaborating with these 20 destinations,
we want to make it easier for workers to enjoy this flexibility and support the
return of safe and responsible travel,” says Nathan Blecharczyck, Airbnb
co-founder and chief strategy officer.
“We
know that travel brings significant economic opportunity to local communities
and connects people around the world. We’re excited to launch this one-stop
shop for anyone thinking of joining the millions of workers that are already
enjoying this new trend of working flexibility and travel.”
The
participating destinations are located around the world in places such as
Italy, Argentina, Indonesia, the United States, South Africa and Australia.
“As we move towards a new normal
in travel, we believe our partnership with Airbnb will help revitalize
Indonesia’s tourism industry with a fresh focus on longer, higher quality stays,”
says Sandiaga Uno, minister of tourism and creative economy of the Republic of
Indonesia.
“Indonesia is ready to welcome
the world – including digital nomads who are seeking remote work-friendly
locations like Bali, which offers ample amenities, infrastructure and a
lifestyle connected to nature and the local community.”
In addition to working with
destination marketing organizations and local government bodies to promote the
online hubs – which are rolling out in the coming months - Airbnb says it will
also work with them to create educational campaigns to promote “responsible
hosting and traveling as a remote worker.”
Airbnb says about 20% of its
users reported working remotely while staying in its properties in 2021.