Online home-sharing platforms in China like Airbnb feel the chill as coronavirus outbreak hits bookings
- The market for short-term rentals in 2018 was about US$7 billion in Asia, compared to US$50 billion for North America and US$29 billion for Europe
- Tujia, another Airbnb rival in China, said suspension guidance from the authorities had affected most of its listings in the city
An experienced host for over three years, Meng says her occupation rate has already “dropped to the slowest on record for January”, with her one-room flat left vacant for nearly half of the month as people all over China stop travelling because of the coronavirus outbreak.
“Even inquiries have gone quiet, with some people asking if they would be stopped by security staff at the residential compound,” said the 32-year-old tech worker. “Now my listings calendar is locked and completely empty.”
Meng is not hopeful about the future either.
“Before, hosting people from all corners of the country sounded interesting,” she said, “now the idea automatically triggers health alarms for many people.”
Meng is among China’s growing number of homestay owners who now face the harsh realities of online bookings being wiped out by health fears across the country, which faces an unprecedented collapse in tourism and travel at what is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year.