Skift Take
By building a host network in less-explored regions, Airbnb would be contributing to responsible tourism development, and also diversify its offerings in India — a priority market for the company.
The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.
In a bid to check overtourism, Airbnb will be working to enhance host capacity in lesser-explored destinations within Uttarakhand. The memorandum of understanding signed between Airbnb and the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, looks to introduce lesser-explored destinations to tourists.
Responsible Travel Practices: Focusing on conserving Uttarakhand's cultural heritage, natural beauty and traditions, the partnership aims to encourage responsible and mindful travel. The goal is to empower local communities and offer travelers enriching experiences.
Key Elements of the Agreement
Capacity Building: Airbnb will conduct capacity-building activities in select locations, focusing on improving local hospitality standards and responsible hosting. Workshops will be organized for 'model hosts,' who will then share their knowledge with members of the community. Onboarding Homestays: The partnership will prioritize onboarding homestays onto the Airbnb platform. Workshops in pilot destinations will train 'model hosts' on setting up profiles, optimizing listing content, and capturing attractive photographs. Ecosystem: Airbnb will review homestay-specific gaps in pilot destinations and share assessments with the tourism board. This is then expected to assist in formulating a targeted support strategy for homestays. Training: Airbnb will collaborate with district tourism officers as points of con