The Philippines emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations as international guest searches rose 140 percent from first quarter 2021 to Q1 2022 following the lifting of travel restrictions, according to newly released Airbnb data.
The Airbnb said that since the lifting of travel restrictions in April this year, international travelers are increasingly looking to visit the Philippines. Travelers are also eager to stay longer and explore more places than ever before, as part of a travel revolution that’s creating more economic opportunities for locals.
Manila emerged as the most popular searched destination in the Philippines among both inbound and domestic guests, followed by tourist favorites Cebu and Quezon City. Notably, more than 60 cities and towns across the country have welcomed their very first Airbnb guests since the start of the pandemic, generating an incredible opportunity for Filipino Hosts in off-the-beaten-path destinations that have traditionally missed out on the benefits of tourism.
The study further said that the Philippines is also uniquely positioned to take advantage of the Live Anywhere remote-work trend and the rise of the digital nomad, as long-term stays on Airbnb emerges as a popular choice for guests.
Additionally, a recent survey conducted by Airbnb among Filipino guests revealed that more than a third of local guests stayed at an Airbnb listing to travel and work remotely, further demonstrating how travelers have been increasingly living on Airbnb.
Airbnb data also revealed that travelers are raring to travel to destinations both familiar and lesser-known.
Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan said, “It is heartening to see that Airbnb guests from around the world are looking to revisit the Philippines - as well as explore it for the first time - which bodes well for the sector’s ongoing recovery and for our local community of Hosts. The blurring lines between travel and living has also led to many travelers continuing to embrace their newfound flexibility. They’re jumping at the opportunity to base themselves in the picturesque destinations in the Philippines, including both popular and lesser-known parts of the country. We remain committed to working with local Hosts across the country, as well as the Philippine government, to help ensure Filipino communities can take advantage of this travel rebound.”
The online marketplace that connects people who want to rent out their homes with people who are looking for accommodations in specific locales has upgraded its platform making it easier for Filipinos to become hosts.
Airbnb has already welcomed more than one billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe since 2007 when it welcomed three guests to their San Francisco homes. The platform has grown to over 4 million hosts that offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.