Exploring Guest Preferences: A Focus Group Study on Airbnb Accommodation Attributes

Abstract

This research paper examines the hospitality industry, which was significantly transformed by the sharing economy, focusing on peer-to-peer accommodation platforms like Airbnb. Through a study involving a focus group of 13 students, we aim to determine the hierarchy of accommodation attributes valued by guests in this new era of travel. The paper meticulously analyzes 14 potential attributes, ranging from the type of accommodation to host communication, and evaluates their relevance based on guest preferences. Our findings highlight that the type of accommodation, cleanliness, location, and overall rating emerge as principal considerations for guests, shedding light on the nuanced expectations within peer-to-peer accommodation. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of consumer priorities in the sharing economy and provides strategic insights for hosts and platforms striving to enhance guest satisfaction and competitive advantage.