What started as a quirky idea, renting out an air mattress to make a bit of extra cash, has exploded into a $31 billion giant that now rivals the world’s biggest hotel chains. Airbnb has changed the way we travel, offering everything from treehouses to penthouses in over 200 countries. But has this so-called travel revolution come at too high a cost?

We’re unpacking the impact Airbnb has had on cities, communities, and housing markets worldwide. From New York to Barcelona to Paris, local governments are cracking down on short-term rentals, arguing that Airbnb has fuelled housing shortages, skyrocketing rents, and even pushed residents out of their own neighbourhoods. Then there’s the guest experience, last-minute cancellations, misleading listings, and privacy concerns, including the very real issue of hidden cameras (which, as of 2024, are finally banned indoors).

While Airbnb has made travel more flexible and accessible, it’s also raised serious ethical and economic questions. Is it still a great way to see the world, or has it become a corporate juggernaut that prioritises profits over people? We’re getting into the good, the bad, and the seriously problematic side of the platform that changed the hospitality industry forever.

About Simon and Danielle:

Simon and Danielle are both business owners, based in the East Midlands, who met through mutual business contacts and who share a love of all things business.

Simon runs Skylight Media – Award-winning experts in Website Design, E-commerce & Marketing running since 2003.

Danielle runs Goldspun Support – a multi-faceted support service for fractional directors and small business owners across the globe, running since 2009.

Since they first met Simon and Danielle have spent a ridiculous amount of time talking about the subjects that interest them – usually over a drink in the pub – and they decided that now was the time to bring these conversations to a wider audience and invite them to join the chat.

Both Simon and Danielle are successful business owners in their own rights with big plans for the future but will never lose their love of talking all things business… and the pub.