Airbnb and VisitScotland partner to spotlight Scottish staycation gems

Airbnb and VisitScotland have announced a new collaboration to tempt Scottish travellers to try something new and to safely experience destinations in Scotland they perhaps hadn’t considered before.

The campaign will promote stays and Experiences in Dumfries & Galloway, Ayrshire, Moray, Angus and Dundee to Scottish travellers that are looking to make the most of the remaining summer period somewhere close to home. The awareness raising effort will target Scottish Airbnb users with suggestions of unique stays and Experiences that are available in the shortlisted destinations.

Riddell Graham, VisitScotland Director of Industry and Destination Development said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the tourism industry. Our job is to identify the opportunity to help the industry bounce back as quickly as possible and working with a variety of partners, we are focusing on the domestic market first – getting people to rediscover their own country through day trips and holidays.  We want to inspire people in Scotland to uncover the huge range of amazing experiences these fantastic destinations offer.”

Patrick Robinson, Director of Public Policy at Airbnb, said, “Scotland is home to magical destinations that are well known to visitors from home and abroad. We are proud to work alongside VisitScotland to put the spotlight on gems that are not often front of mind for travellers but will no doubt leave guests wanting more. By targeting Scottish Airbnb users with this campaign, we can help to spread the benefits of travel on Airbnb right across the country.”

Travel on Airbnb had an estimated economic impact of more than £700m to the Scottish economy last year alone. In a survey of guests that visited Scotland last year, over a third opted for Airbnb to have a more local experience. More than half said they probably wouldn’t have visited the area where they stayed had it not been for their listing and that the money they saved on their accommodation meant they spent more in the community.

In June, Airbnb launched its Go Near campaign to encourage nearby travel and support the recovery of local economies. Since then, Airbnb has worked closely with destination marketing organisations around the world to encourage local and safe travel this summer. 

Airbnb launched its enhanced Enhanced Cleaning Protocol for UK hosts in June which includes expert cleanliness and hygiene guidance from international experts. 

Notes to editors
The campaign landing page can be seen here.