To B&B or not to Airbnb

That is the question many travellers face. Airbnb changed how we travel forever. Suddenly a true escape from reality was only a few clicks away. From romanticised "chambre de bonne" overlooking the rooftops of Paris, to retreating to the treetops in Turkey or tasting “la dolce vita” on the terrazzo in the gentle folds of the Tuscan hills. The “live like a local” trend has started hitting real locals where it hurts—skyrocketing rents, housing shortages, and struggling family-run hotels. But ethical travel isn’t out of reach.

Here are 5 smart, conscious ways to book your next stay—support small-scale hosts, boost the local economy, and sleep easy knowing your trip is part of the solution, not the problem.

5 Tips for Ethical Airbnb Travel

• 1. Choose Local Hosts, Not Mega Hosts

  Look for listings that are managed by individuals—not property management companies. Signs of a mega host include multiple identical listings, corporate-style branding, and automated responses. Supporting locals keeps money in the community and promotes genuine cultural exchange.

• 2. Look for Properties That Blend In, Not Take Over

  Avoid rentals that disrupt the character of a neighborhood—think over-renovated, out-of-place luxury apartments in modest areas. Opt for places that maintain the local aesthetic and feel like they belong to the neighborhood, not dominate it.

• 3. Read Between the Lines in Listings

  Check for clues that the property is a real home: personal touches in the decor, honest descriptions, and hosts who share tips about the local area. These are often the stays that feel most welcoming—and most authentic.

• 4. Shop, Eat, and Spend Locally

  Even the best Airbnb stay won’t support the community if you spend the rest of your trip in global chains. Seek out neighborhood bakeries, independent restaurants, artisan shops, and local markets to make a positive impact.

• 5. Keep Your Eye on Boutique Hotels and Agriturismos

  Sometimes, the most ethical and enriching stays aren't on Airbnb at all. Locally run boutique hotels and agriturismos (especially in Italy and other rural regions) often offer immersive, culturally respectful experiences while supporting small business owners and preserving traditional ways of life.

Airbnb offers an amazing opportunity to explore the world through local eyes while contributing to the local economy. However, be cautious of 'Mega Hosts.' These are hosts who manage multiple properties, often with more than two people listed as hosts. While it's possible for one person to run a small property management business, typically, you’ll notice that the properties are not all listed under the same name.

The travel mantra:

“choose wisely and travel mindfully”