'Live anywhere’ trend likely to continue

Many companies expect to continue implementing remote and hybrid work schemes in the near future, which Airbnb says would allow more people to live anywhere they want, according to a report by Philippine News Agency.

“This Live Anywhere trend is like a decentralization of living, and it’s changing the identity of travel,” the home rental company said in a statement.

Airbnb said it has seen an increase in long-term stays in the third quarter of 2021.

“In Q3 2021, over 85% of long-term stay nights booked in the Philippines were for stays in urban destinations. Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Baguio emerged as the top most searched destinations for long-term stays,” it said.

Airbnb also expects more people giving up their leases to become “digital nomads.”

“The share of Airbnb long-term stay bookers who used their stays to lead a nomadic lifestyle grew from 9% (in 2020) to 12% (in 2021). In the Philippines, 45% of Filipinos polled want to rent out their homes and travel,” it said.

More cities and countries will tweak their visa and tax rules to attract these remote workers, Airbnb said.