#051 The Seasoned Traveller

See the VIDEO highlights of this episode here - https://youtu.be/CID9tyKxenY  In this episode, Neil sits down with Richard, an avid traveler who has experienced between one and two hundred Airbnbs across various countries. Richard delves into his extensive Airbnb experiences, highlighting the benefits of staying in local accommodations over traditional hotels, as well as the importance of budget-friendly options. Together they discuss the nuances of hosted versus unhosted stays, the significance of pre-arrival communication, and the challenges of navigating house rules and emergency situations while traveling.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Staying in Airbnbs allows travelers to support local communities and experience destinations more authentically compared to traditional hotels. Pre-arrival messaging and clear instructions are crucial for a smooth guest experience. Hosts should provide detailed arrival instructions and emergency contact information. Guests prioritise cleanliness, safety, and budget-friendly options when choosing accommodations. Many prefer to spend their money on experiences rather than expensive lodging. Last-minute cancellations by hosts can be frustrating for guests. It's important for hosts to honor existing bookings and communicate effectively with guests about any changes. Leaving reviews can be challenging, especially when it comes to negative experiences. Guests often prefer to address issues privately with hosts rather than publicly in reviews, highlighting the need for hosts to be receptive to feedback. BEST MOMENTS "I like the whole concept of Airbnbs just because it's giving money to the local people as opposed to the hotels. And also it's budget friendly." "Pre-arrival messaging is my next topic. Because what I do is the moment you book, I'll send you a message which acknowledges that I've received your booking." "If it's a cold climate and you open a door and you see this sort of bedroom or whatever it might be, living room, and it's warm and toasty, that's always nice." "I don't keep in touch. No. You're the only host that I've seen twice. Well, the only place that I've been to twice." "I think the tea's gone cold as well. It has. That's okay. I still don't mind it though." CONTACT DETAILS Visit Neil's Airbnb https://bit.ly/SuperhostNeil Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superhostneil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuperhostNeil TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@superhostneil Email: [e-mail]  ABOUT THE HOST Neil has led a fulfilled and unconventional life, navigating an extraordinary journey from the Royal Navy to prop-making in London's West End theatres. Born into a military family, it was a twist of fate which led him to the theatre, where he contributed to iconic productions such as Phantom of the Opera. Eventually, Neil transitioned to Corporate Event Team Building, eventually founding his own venture in 1999. Financial challenges in 2017 are what prompted a strategic shift to Airbnb hosting, proving a reliable backup income. By 2021, Neil and his business partner triumphed over significant debt, fuelled by their resilience and the success of Neil's Airbnb venture. Now, Neil has left the corporate world behind, thriving solely through his flourishing Airbnb endeavours. ABOUT THE SHOW Welcome to "The Airbnb Superhost," your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosting on Airbnb. In each concise 15-minute episode, Neil will reveal the secrets to creating unforgettable guest experiences and maximizing the potential of your property, drawing on over 9 consecutive years as a qualifying Airbnb Superhost. With a focus on 3 specific aspects of running an Airbnb business; the host, the property, and Airbnb itself, Neil provides step-by-step guidance on everything from ambience creation to effective communication. In each episode, a Superhost Secret will help you elevate your hosting game and keep guests coming back for more. Whether you're a seaso