The Case for Short-Term Rentals Leading the Return of Travelers to Cities
Photo Credit: Sonder says its properties are at 75 to 80 percent occupancy, despite the pandemic. Sonder
Skift Take
Yes, there's the call of the wild, but don't discount the call of concrete in 2021.
While there’s been much talk of traveler diffusion out of cities and into nature, tourists will soon be pining for the amenities that only cities can offer.
That’s the view of two short-term rental brands, which believe they’re flexible enough — and funded enough — to cater to a “richer spectrum” of guests than before across their urban playgrounds.
They also argue the pandemic hasn’t dented business too much, either.
“We’re at 75 to 80 percent occupancy in our portfolio. We’ve not seen a demand compression,” said Sanjay Banker, chief financial officer at Sonder. “Even in a world where individuals move out, it means people will want to enjoy the amenities of a city for their holidays. They’ve enjoyed them for thousands of years.”
