AirBNB is touting this as an "authentic experience" -- living among the natives vs. a bland or sterile hotel. I personally prefer a hotel, and there are plenty boutique ones with their own charming flavor & experience. Also, with a hotel you're more assured of basic amenities, whereas the apartments on AirBNB are hit & miss.
Like many in this thread, I have mixed feelings about AirBNB. While I can see its potential for additional income & tourism, it creates unpleasant situations for the neighbors -- i.e. weird or unruly guests, trash, crime, destruction of property or atmosphere.
Interestingly, the Millennial woman living with me used to rely heavily on AirBNB for travel. Next week, she is going to Guatemala -- however, this time staying at youth hostels. Maybe that's the next big thing.
“however, this time staying at youth hostels. Maybe that’s the next big thing.”
I traveled to Europe back in the late 2000’s around 3 times and Asia more than a dozen. After graduating from university, me and my frat mates went to the EU and basically we had a budget, we slept in these hostels. No privacy and you are sleeping/mixed with total strangers. I used to work cruise ships when I was 17/18 as a bellhop, and at least I knew the other 3 guys in the room.