Airbnb numbers growing in South East
FIGURES RELEASED in an Insights Report from Airbnb show that the South East Region, which includes Wexford, welcomed 57,000 visitors between November 2016 and November 2017.
The report, which divides the county into eight regions, showed an inbound guest growth of 63%, resulting in an estimated €506 million for the local economy.
The South East Region, which encompasses Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford, was a growing destination, an increase credited to the family friendliness of the area, along with its beaches and coastline, and historical sites. Bookings from families stood at 21%, the second highest in the country.
The number of inbound guests in the region was higher than the national average, standing at 84%, or 57,000. Interestingly, 36% of guests to the area travelled from within Ireland. 51% of guests stayed with female hosts - the highest in the country.
The resulting benefit to the local economy in the region was approximately €19 million. The south-east region has a total of 1,300 active listings which realises an average of €2,600 annual earnings per typical host. On average, a typical listing will host families for 28 nights per year.
Aisling Hassell, Ireland Site Lead and Global Head of Customer Experience, said: ‘Ireland’s vibrant communities and unique hospitality have continued to bring more visitors to the country than ever before.
‘From Westmeath to Wexford, millennials to seniors, and castles to treehouses, there’s something for everyone on Airbnb. Hosts in Ireland are true ambassadors for their neighbourhoods and we look forward to seeing many more guests from around Ireland and the world discover the unique and welcoming homes on Airbnb.’