Latest news with #Airbnb
Yahoo
41 minutes ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Spanish court rejects Airbnb appeal and keeps order to block nearly 66,000 listings
MADRID (AP) — A Spanish court on Thursday rejected an appeal by Airbnb and left in place an order to block almost 66,000 rental listings that the government said violated local rules. The government has said the platform's short-term rentals in city centers and tourism hot spots are contributing to Spain's housing crunch while the country welcomes record numbers of visitors. Last month, Spain's government ordered Airbnb to block 65,935 listings in the country after the Consumer Rights Ministry flagged them for violations. It said Airbnb had to immediately take down 5,800 of them. The ministry has said the listings it flagged did not include their license number or specify whether the owner was an individual or a company. It said others listed numbers that didn't match what authorities had. In a statement, Airbnb said the ministry's actions went against Spanish regulations that hold owners of short-term rentals, not the platform, as responsible for listing such information. It also said the Madrid court's decision was not made on the merits of the ministry's order, adding that will take longer to decide. The company asserted that Spain's housing crisis comes down to 'a lack of supply to meet demand,' and said anything else "is a distraction.' Last month, Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy told The Associated Press that the tourism sector could not "jeopardize the constitutional rights of the Spanish people,' including their right to housing and well-being. Carlos Cuerpo, the economy minister, said in a separate interview that the government had to tackle the unwanted side effects of mass tourism. He advocated for building more housing while regulating short-term holiday rentals.
The Independent
an hour ago
- Business
- The Independent
Judge rejects Airbnb's appeal in move that could change Spanish tourism forever
A Spanish court has upheld an order for Airbnb to block nearly 66,000 rental listings across the country, rejecting an appeal from the online platform. The ruling reinforces the government's stance that these short-term rentals violate local regulations and contribute to Spain 's escalating housing crisis, particularly as the nation experiences record tourist numbers. The Consumer Rights Ministry had previously flagged the listings for violations, issuing an order last month for Airbnb to remove 65,935 properties. Of these, 5,800 were identified for immediate takedown. An Airbnb spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment on the Madrid 's High Court 's decision. The ministry has said the listings it flagged did not include their license number or specify whether the owner was an individual or a company. It said others listed numbers that didn't match what authorities had. Last month, Consumer Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy told The Associated Press that the tourism sector could not "jeopardise the constitutional rights of the Spanish people.' This included their right to housing and well-being. Carlos Cuerpo, the economy minister, said in a separate interview that the government had to tackle the unwanted side effects of mass tourism. It comes following protests across Spain and popular European hotspots. Earlier this month, protesters used water guns against unsuspecting tourists in Barcelona and on the Spanish island of Mallorca as demonstrators marched to demand a rethink of an economic model they believe is fuelling a housing crunch and erasing the character of their hometowns. The marches were part of the first coordinated effort by activists concerned with the ills of overtourism across southern Europe's top destinations. While several thousands rallied in Mallorca in the biggest gathering of the day, hundreds more gathered in other Spanish cities, as well as in Venice, Italy, and Portugal's capital, Lisbon. 'The squirt guns are to bother the tourists a bit,' Andreu Martínez said in Barcelona with a chuckle after spritzing a couple seated at an outdoor café. 'Barcelona has been handed to the tourists. This is a fight to give Barcelona back to its residents.' Martínez, a 42-year-old administrative assistant, is one of a growing number of residents who are convinced that tourism has gone too far in the city of 1.7 million people. Barcelona hosted 15.5 million visitors last year eager to see Antoni Gaudí's La Sagrada Familia basilica and the Las Ramblas promenade. Martínez says his rent has risen over 30 per cent as more apartments in his neighborhood are rented to tourists for short-term stays. He said there is a knock-on effect of traditional stores being replaced by businesses catering to tourists, like souvenir shops, burger joints and 'bubble tea' spots. 'Our lives, as lifelong residents of Barcelona, are coming to an end," he said. "We are being pushed out systematically.'
Daily Mail
9 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Why travellers in Australia are still blown away when they find out what lies behind this hidden door in the mountains
An iconic hideaway in Australia continues to wow travellers, both local and international, when they discover what lies behind its mysterious mountainside entryway. Within the small Blue Mountains town of Bilpin is a one-of-a-kind holiday rental situated inside a cave. The unique, rustic Airbnb holiday property, located only 90 minutes from the Sydney CBD, is known as ' The Enchanted Cave ' - and it becomes clear why when guests take a step inside. The intimate two-person accommodation has been masterfully built beneath the clifftop of a natural rock platform and claims to be 'the only cave for a couple in the Blue Mountains region'. Upon arrival, access to the holiday stay is via its easy-to-miss, small, round wooden door. The listing charmingly describes this entryway as something that 'wouldn't be out of place in The Hobbit'. Once inside the cosy abode, the cave retreat fantasy truly takes hold. As described in the listing: 'Close the door. The view, the spa, the fire. I am Caveman.' Property owner Lionel, a builder who specialises in environmentally friendly design and construction, says he created the unique accommodation to offer an experience akin to 'a nature bath'. Lionel told FEMAIL that The Enchanted Cave, which is accessible by car, features 'incredibly beautiful views of World Heritage wilderness'. He said past visitors have commented on how 'relaxing and fulfilling' their stay inside the cave was – and how it often helped them reconnect with 'nature and their partner'. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque national park, the external sides of the accommodation feature floor-to-(cave)-roof glass, showcasing the majestic natural setting. Nestled high on the cliffs, the cave overlooks the treetops, with expansive views to be enjoyed from either inside or outside on the carved natural rock verandah. This romantic holiday venue offers couples a rare chance to feel as though they've escaped into their own world – while still enjoying all the amenities for a comfortable stay. There's a pleasant fire place for the dual purpose of atmosphere and warmth - best enjoyed with a cheese board and a glass of wine in hand while a sunken two-person hot tub has been positioned next to a huge window to take in the majestic bush views. A kitchenette in the corner of the cave is complete with a mini fridge, oven and cooktops to whip up a delicious meal. It's best to come prepared with supplies, as this certainly isn't the type of venue easily reached by an UberEats driver. With not another person in sight from high above the tree canopy, privacy certainly won't be an issue. The intimate two-person accommodation has been masterfully built beneath the clifftop of a natural rock platform and claims to be 'the only cave for a couple in the Blue Mountains region' There is a toilet too - but it's worth noting that it is a long-drop compost toilet due to the remote location, which can take a little getting used to. For those who love the idea of an 'off-the-grid' getaway but still want a touch of creature comfort technology, the venue includes a television beautifully built into one side of the cave wall. But with no Wi-Fi and limited phone signal, the idea is to disconnect and truly revel in the back-to-nature experience. And of course, there's a big, soft bed near the cave entryway. Be prepared to wake up to the sound of birdsong. For those keen to venture out, the property is on the doorstep of the world famous Blue Mountains National Park walking trails. For those who love the idea of an 'off-the-grid' getaway but still want a touch of creature comfort technology, the venue includes a television beautifully built into one side of the cave wall The cost of staying at such a rare property does attract a higher price tag. A minimum two-night stay starts from $1,230 per night. The cave retreat has rave reviews from past guests, with an average rating of 4.84 stars. Among the comments from previous holidaymakers are descriptions of the property as 'magical', 'dream-like' and 'memorable'. 'Cannot recommend highly enough for those seeking an escape from the usual city life. It is a truly unexpected and unique space, one in a million,' read part of one review. 'Highly recommended for anyone seeking a beautiful place to disconnect,' confirmed another. A visitor earlier this year described the cave retreat as the place to go 'to reconnect with nature', adding that it had 'everything you needed to completely unwind'. 'Release your inner child (cave person or hobbit) in this most extraordinary cliff dwelling,' stated another. Many couples commented about choosing to visit the romantic cave abode for a special occasion, like anniversaries. Although many comments were positive, it's worth noting that some visitors were not prepared for just how rustic the stay would be. In the bush, things like errant bugs, the drop toilet (and its slight odour!), outdoor residue and other quirks are all part of the secluded bush location experience. But what it lacks in standard luxury resort amenities, it more than makes up for in uniqueness and breathtaking natural beauty. And being located less than an hour and a half from Sydney means that just when you're starting to yearn for the buzz of city life, you can be back there before you know it.
Time Out
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Chicago is one of the top Pride Month destinations for 2025, per Airbnb
If you were planning to spend Pride Month somewhere fun, fabulous and full of flavor (rainbow and otherwise), you wouldn't be alone in choosing Chicago. According to Airbnb's 2025 travel data, the Windy City is one of the top trending Pride Month destinations among Gen Z and Millennial travelers, with searches spiking 37% over last year's numbers. Chicago joins the ranks of other buzzworthy Pride cities like Boston, Bogotá and Cologne, all seeing a swell in bookings as younger generations plan trips around parades, parties and unforgettable experiences. The data tracks bookings for late June, just in time for the city's big Pride festivities, including the iconic Chicago Pride Parade, which draws nearly a million people annually. And it's not just about marching. Airbnb has also spotlighted ' The Animated Tour of Chicago ' as one of the standout experiences travelers are booking while in town. The creative walking tour, hosted by local artist and animator O.J., blends history, city landmarks and vibrant visuals into a delightfully nerdy cultural deep dive. Think Schoolhouse Rock meets Chicago Architecture Center—with original art, humor and just the right dash of weird. Reviews call it '10/10,' 'super fun' and 'an incredible, inspiring start to the trip.' Pride-seekers can also take advantage of Airbnb's expanding menu of local services, from in-home yoga to prepared meals, all geared toward helping visitors make the most of their stay no matter their budget or itinerary. Chicago's place on the list makes sense: The city boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ community, legendary nightlife and plenty of rainbow-splashed events throughout the month. But it's also a city of neighborhoods—each offering something different, whether you're brunching in Boystown, gallery-hopping in Pilsen or cruising the lakefront on a Divvy bike with a drag queen-led tour (yes, that exists).
New York Post
12 hours ago
- Business
- New York Post
NYers reveal how they feel about Airbnb in new poll
A majority of New Yorkers don't want to give Airbnb access to the Big Apple's housing market, a new poll says. The survey, paid for by the Airbnb rival Hotel Gaming and Trades Council and obtained by The Post, found that while the home-share-app giant recently funneled $5 million into a super PAC to influence Big Apple elections, 56% of city residents want nothing to do with the short-term-rental system. 3 Home-sharing short-term rental app Airbnb wants to come back to the Big Apple with few restraints, but a majority of New Yorkers say otherwise, a new poll says. Bloomberg via Getty Images 'New Yorkers are not falling for Airbnb's lies,' said Whitney Hu, director of civic engagement and research at Churches United for Fair Housing. 'The vast majority of families are struggling to stay in their homes, and they want politicians who will pass legislation that makes our city more affordable, not less,' she said. 3 A $1 million ad paid for by Airbnb urges New Yorkers to oppose three mayoral candidates who have called for stifling it. Youtube/ Affordable New York Of the residents surveyed in the HTC, 38% said they supported Airbnb in the city, while 6% remained unsure. The numbers appeared to be non-partisan, with 57% of Democrats and 58% of Republicans opposing the short stays. Concerns among the city dwellers centered on the housing crisis — with more than 80% of respondents expressing worry about a diminished regular housing supply with the short-term rentals. Airbnb suffered a major blow in 2023 when the City Council passed Local Law 18 — effectively banning the home-share app involving any apartment where the current tenant or owner wasn't present. Late last year, a bill aiming to revive the app's short-term rental market was introduced and sponsored by a slew of City Council members of varying progressive leanings, including Speaker Adrienne Adams. Since then, Airbnb opened a $5 million super PAC — Affordable New York — in which it donated more than $2.1 million to support the campaigns of 13 candidates for public office, including 11 for city council. The tech giant has also spent $1 million on an opposition ad against mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani, Brad Lander and Scott Stringer — all of whom are progressive but want heavy restrictions on Airbnb in the city. 3 A major hotel-industry group paid for the poll. SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Though the ad that aired earlier this month did not endorse any candidates, it promoted the interests of frontrunner candidate former Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The move was a puzzling nod to a candidate who is endorsed by the HTC, which directly opposes and competes with Airbnb. 'As governor, Andrew Cuomo took action against unregulated short-term rentals, and he's promised to continue to stand up for tenants and workers as mayor,' noted HTC Political Director Bhav Tibrewal in a statement to Politico earlier this month. 'If Airbnb thinks it's a flex to publicly light their money on fire, we're happy to not stand in their way on this one,' he said. Airbnb policy chief Michael Blaustein said, 'Regular New Yorkers deserve the same rights as all Americans – renting their home when they're away for short periods. 'A broad coalition of homeowners and small businesses are behind common-sense changes to the city's strict short-term rental rules that will allow New Yorkers to share their home without taking a single unit off the long-term housing market,' he said.
