As global travel trends continue to shift, Airbnb is making bold moves to re-engage the Chinese market—this time, by focusing on outbound tourism. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword in hospitality—it’s fast becoming the norm. Here's what short-term rental professionals need to know.
Airbnb’s China Strategy: From Exit to Expansion
While Airbnb exited China’s domestic market in 2022, it hasn’t walked away from the region. Instead, it's doubling down on outbound Chinese travellers, particularly targeting the next generation of globetrotters: Gen Z.
Airbnb is aligning marketing efforts with key Chinese holidays like the Ching Ming Festival and Lunar New Year, tapping into periods of peak travel demand. In 2023, outbound bookings from China surged by 90%, and in 2024, they continued to grow by 25%.
To connect with this demographic, Airbnb is leaning heavily into local social media platforms such as Red Note, Douyin (China’s TikTok), and Bilibili. This digital-first approach allows Airbnb to reach younger, tech-savvy consumers where they spend most of their time.
The company is also strengthening its presence in key Asia-Pacific destinations like Japan and South Korea. Strategic partnerships with local tourism boards and investments in Chinese-speaking hosts indicate that Airbnb is positioning itself as the preferred choice for group travel among Chinese tourists.
AI Becomes Mainstream in Travel
Alongside Airbnb’s regional strategy, artificial intelligence continues to shape the future of travel. A recent report by Amadeus Hospitality highlights just how widespread AI adoption has become—particularly among business travelers.
More than half of those surveyed are comfortable with AI handling their bookings. Many are also open to AI-generated dining recommendations and travel inspiration. This suggests a growing trust in technology to curate meaningful travel experiences.
AI expectations don’t stop at recommendations. Travelers now expect digital-first solutions such as:
- Seamless online check-ins
- Tailored promotions
- Crypto-friendly payment options
The shift is clear—guests want personalized, tech-driven experiences that prioritize convenience and relevance. For short-term rental professionals, this is a call to action.
What It Means for STR Professionals
If you're managing short-term rentals, there are two key takeaways from these trends:
Tap into Growing Travel Markets: Airbnb’s renewed focus on Chinese outbound travel highlights a valuable market segment. If your listings are in popular destinations like Japan, Korea, or Australia, now is the time to ensure you’re optimized for Chinese travellers—language support, localised marketing, and group-friendly accommodations are essential.
Embrace Smart Technology: The rise of AI in hospitality isn’t just about automation—it’s about creating intelligent, frictionless experiences. From AI-powered pricing tools to smart guest communication, the future of STR management depends on tech integration.
Staying ahead in the short-term rental industry means watching both global strategy shifts and technological innovation. Airbnb’s targeted China play and the mainstream adoption of AI are two signals of where the travel world is heading—fast.
Ready to elevate your direct booking game? Visit the Boostly website for the tools, strategies, and support you need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. And remember: Book Direct.