Airbnb eyeing family travelers

A home for Airbnb's family collection in Seoul / Courtesy of Airbnb Korea

By Kang Seung-woo

Since its 2008 inception, Airbnb, a home rental website, has become a darling for solo travelers thanks to its cheaper rates than hotels. Its business model is to connect hosts who rent out their private properties to short-term sub-letters.

Now, on the back of its success, the hospitality service is expanding its accommodation options, one of which is the “Family Collection” that is beginning to gain traction in Korea

Amid growing demand from family travelers, Airbnb recently launched the Family Collection, offering full homes featuring family-friendly amenities such as fully equipped kitchens and five-star reviews from other family travelers.

“More families are using Airbnb to choose their lodging as they often have difficulty looking for accommodations suitable for family trips,” said Hong Jong-hee, a public relations manager at Airbnb Korea.

“Airbnb is offering categorized and specialized accommodation options, helping them find lodging.”

According to Airbnb, a host's listing must maintain a 4.8 overall rating over the past 365 days, with at least five total reviews and at least two five-star reviews from families. To count as a family review, a child or infant must have been included as a confirmed guest on the booking.

“Once a host's listing meets these requirements, it will automatically be added to the Family Collection and each host will need to continue to meet each requirement in order to stay in the collection,” Hong said.

Despite its short history, there are more than 500 Seoul-based Family Collection listings.

To make its situation better, the collection has received rave reviews.

“(Host) Jey's place was our home away from home. My family stayed there for four days and five nights and we had no problem whatsoever with the place. It felt as though we were locals,” said a guest from the Philippines named Kayle who stayed in Seoul.

“We will be sure to book Jey's home again when we come back and visit.”

Rachel from Hong Kong also said, “To live in Zikm's house (in Seoul), you can gain the experience of living in traditional Korean house in a clean and peaceful environment.”

Those who stayed outside Seoul also praised the Family Collection.

“Cozy, clean and although we didn't stay in the traditional house the extra space was superb for our family of 5. Lots of outdoor space for kids to explore safely and independently. A kind and considerate host,” said Rebecca from Dubai after staying in Busan.

Alice from Colorado, who stayed on Jeju Island, said, “The host always responded within minutes. So helpful and kind! Overall, we had a great stay!”

A home for Airbnb's family collection in Melbourne, Australia / Courtesy of Airbnb Korea