Airbnb has announced a policy change that will impact guests opting for cross-currency bookings on its short-term rental platform.
Commencing from April 1, 2024, guests choosing to pay in a currency different from the host’s will be subjected to an additional charge of two percent of the booking total before taxes.
The policy adjustments, outlined in a newly released statement, will be enforced for existing users starting March 28.
Users registering post this date will need to accept the revised terms or opt to delete their Airbnb accounts.
“Starting April 1, we will begin including an additional amount in our guest service fee for cross- currency bookings. The fee will include an additional amount of up to two percent of the booking total before taxes.
“This will be applied when the currency the guest uses to pay differs from the currency that the host sets for their listing.” read the Airbnb notice in part.
Typically, the guest service fees amount to less than 14.2% of the total cost of booking, which comprises the nightly rate and any extra charges set by the host, excluding the guest service fee and taxes.
Airbnb New charges
This fee can vary depending on several factors and may be higher or lower for different bookings.
“The guest service fee varies based on a variety of factors and may be higher or lower depending on the booking. The fee is reduced for some stays of 28 nights or more,” the notice further read.
Also Read: How to Register Your Airbnb: Cost & Requirements
According to the notice, hosts on the platform already bear service fees to cover operational expenses related to the listing site, including customer support, secure payment processing, and the development of new features.
These fees contribute to maintaining the functionality and quality of the platform.
Guests, on the other hand, are subject to various charges such as cleaning fees, extra guest fees based on the number of visitors, security fees, and cancellation fees.
About The online Marketplace Accommodation
Airbnb is an online marketplace and hospitality service that enables people to list, discover, and book accommodations around the world.
The platform allows individuals to rent out their homes, apartments, or spare rooms to travelers, providing an alternative to traditional hotels.
Hosts can set their own prices, house rules, and availability, while guests can search for, and book accommodations based on their preferences and needs.
Also Read: Govt Rolls Out New Airbnb Regulations Ahead of Crackdown
Airbnb has become popular for its diverse range of lodging options, which can include everything from shared rooms and private apartments to entire houses and unique properties.
The platform also allows hosts to offer experiences and activities to guests, adding a local and personalized touch to the travel experience.
Founded in 2008, Airbnb has grown into a global platform with millions of listings in various countries, making it a significant player in the sharing economy and changing the way people think about travel accommodations.
As the company introduces this new cross-currency charge, it aims to streamline transactions and maintain the efficiency of its services.
