Submitting feedback regarding a stay at a short-term rental property through the Airbnb platform allows guests to formally express their experience. This feedback typically includes ratings on various aspects of the property and host, along with written comments. For example, a guest might rate the cleanliness as “5 stars” and write, “The apartment was spotless and exactly as pictured.”
Providing detailed and honest evaluations benefits both future guests and hosts. Constructive criticism helps hosts improve their offerings, while positive affirmations highlight successful aspects of the rental. The accumulation of reviews establishes a reputation for both the property and the host, influencing booking decisions and overall trust within the Airbnb community. The practice of online reviews has become an integral component of the hospitality industry, facilitating informed choices and promoting accountability.
The following sections will detail the specific elements to consider when composing a helpful and insightful evaluation, focusing on clarity, fairness, and completeness, ultimately contributing to a more transparent and trustworthy Airbnb ecosystem.
1. Accuracy
Accuracy forms the bedrock of any credible short-term rental evaluation on the Airbnb platform. An inaccurate review undermines the entire system, misleading potential guests and unfairly impacting hosts. Its importance cannot be overstated.
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Verifiable Facts
Reviews should be grounded in verifiable facts. Statements regarding amenities, location, or property condition must be truthful and supported by evidence, if possible. An example of inaccurate reporting would be stating that a property has a “fully equipped kitchen” when essential items are missing. This misrepresentation directly impacts potential guests’ expectations and decisions.
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Distinguishing Opinion from Fact
While subjective opinions are valuable, they must be clearly differentiated from objective facts. Stating “the bed was uncomfortable” is an opinion. However, stating “the bed was listed as a queen-size, but it was actually a full-size” is a statement of fact that can be verified. Mixing subjective experiences with objective data can erode the review’s credibility.
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Representational Photographs and Descriptions
Discrepancies between photographs and the actual property condition significantly compromise review accuracy. If the review mentions “updated appliances” but the photos depict outdated models, it introduces doubt. Similarly, inflated descriptions of neighborhood safety or proximity to attractions undermine the platform’s reliability. Reviews should corroborate or contradict the provided media and descriptions with verifiable observations.
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Recency and Relevance
Property conditions can change over time. A review based on an experience from several years prior might not accurately reflect the current state. Mentioning the date of the stay provides crucial context. Furthermore, focusing on aspects relevant to the property’s current listing (e.g., commenting on advertised amenities that are no longer available) is crucial for maintaining accuracy.
Therefore, striving for accuracy in all aspects of a review is paramount. It ensures that the feedback is genuinely helpful to prospective guests and fair to hosts, contributing to a more transparent and reliable Airbnb ecosystem. Inaccurate reviews, whether intentional or unintentional, diminish the value of the platform and erode trust.
2. Clarity
Clarity is indispensable in short-term rental evaluations on the Airbnb platform. A review lacking in clarity fails to effectively convey the reviewer’s experience, diminishing its value to prospective guests and hosts alike. Well-articulated feedback ensures that the message is readily understood and actionable.
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Concise Language
Effective reviews avoid unnecessary jargon or verbose language. Simplicity in sentence structure and word choice enhances readability. For instance, instead of writing “The accommodation possessed an ambiance of suboptimal thermal regulation,” a clearer statement would be “The room was either too hot or too cold.” Direct communication prevents misinterpretation and facilitates a swift comprehension of the reviewer’s sentiment.
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Structured Presentation
A logical flow of information improves understanding. Organizing thoughts into distinct paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of the stay (e.g., cleanliness, location, host communication), enables readers to easily navigate the evaluation. Bullet points or numbered lists can further clarify individual points within each category. A disorganized review, conversely, can confuse readers and obscure valuable insights.
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Specific Examples
General statements lack the impact of concrete examples. Instead of saying “The kitchen was dirty,” specifying “There were unwashed dishes in the sink and food stains on the counter” provides a tangible understanding of the issue. Such detail enhances the review’s credibility and allows hosts to address specific problems effectively. Vague criticisms are less actionable and less helpful to future guests.
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Avoiding Ambiguity
Ambiguous phrasing can lead to misinterpretations and detract from the review’s overall effectiveness. For example, stating “The location was somewhat convenient” leaves the reader unsure of the actual experience. Specifying “The location was a 15-minute walk from the train station, but there were no nearby grocery stores” offers a more precise and useful assessment. Eliminating ambiguity ensures that the review accurately reflects the reviewer’s experience and provides actionable information.
The various components of clarity contribute directly to the effectiveness of short-term rental feedback. A well-written, clear evaluation provides valuable insights for both prospective guests seeking suitable accommodations and hosts aiming to improve their offerings. By focusing on concise language, structured presentation, specific examples, and avoiding ambiguity, reviewers can ensure their feedback is both informative and impactful.
3. Objectivity
Objectivity, when providing feedback, is crucial for generating a fair and impartial evaluation of a short-term rental through Airbnb. A balanced assessment is more likely to be perceived as credible and valuable by future guests and hosts alike.
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Separating Personal Preferences from Factual Observations
Subjective preferences should be distinguished from objective facts about the property. A dislike for a particular decorating style, for instance, should not overshadow an assessment of cleanliness or functionality. An objective review acknowledges both the aspects that met expectations and those that fell short, irrespective of personal taste. The goal is to provide information that is broadly applicable, rather than narrowly tailored to individual biases.
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Avoiding Emotional Language
Reviews laden with overly emotional language, whether positive or negative, can undermine their perceived impartiality. Hyperbolic statements like “absolutely perfect” or “completely unusable” often lack the nuance necessary for a balanced assessment. Instead, descriptive language that avoids extreme adjectives and adverbs contributes to a more credible and objective portrayal of the experience.
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Acknowledging External Factors
External factors unrelated to the property itself should be carefully considered and, if possible, separated from the core evaluation. For example, inclement weather or unforeseen neighborhood events should not unduly influence the assessment of the accommodation’s cleanliness or the host’s communication. Focusing on elements within the host’s control provides a fairer and more objective evaluation.
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Balancing Positive and Negative Feedback
A review that exclusively praises or criticizes the property raises questions about its objectivity. A balanced evaluation acknowledges both the strengths and weaknesses of the rental. Identifying specific areas for improvement alongside positive attributes demonstrates a thoughtful and impartial approach. This balanced perspective enhances the review’s utility for both future guests and the host seeking constructive feedback.
Objectivity in short-term rental evaluations improves the credibility of the review and makes it more helpful for prospective guests. By focusing on factual observations, avoiding emotional language, acknowledging external factors, and balancing positive and negative feedback, reviewers can contribute to a more reliable and trustworthy Airbnb platform.
4. Completeness
The thoroughness of a short-term rental review, often referred to as its completeness, directly impacts its utility. An incomplete assessment may omit crucial details, leaving prospective guests with an insufficient understanding of the property and experience. A holistic review, conversely, enhances decision-making and fosters a more transparent exchange of information within the Airbnb ecosystem.
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Coverage of Key Areas
A complete review addresses essential aspects of the rental experience. This includes cleanliness, accuracy of the listing description, communication with the host, location convenience, value for money, and functionality of amenities. Omitting any of these key areas reduces the review’s value. For example, failing to mention a significant discrepancy between the listing description and the actual property condition (e.g., a non-functional air conditioner) diminishes the review’s completeness and its overall effectiveness.
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Elaboration on Ratings
The star ratings assigned to various categories should be supported by detailed explanations. Simply assigning a low rating without providing context offers limited value. A complete review elaborates on the reasoning behind each rating. For instance, if a guest assigns a low rating for “location,” they should specify the reasons, such as lack of nearby public transportation, excessive noise, or perceived safety concerns. This context provides actionable information for both prospective guests and the host.
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Description of Host Interaction
The host-guest interaction significantly contributes to the overall rental experience. A complete review includes details about the host’s communication style, responsiveness, and helpfulness. Mentioning whether the host was readily available to address questions or resolve issues adds valuable context. Conversely, if the host was unresponsive or unhelpful, detailing these experiences is crucial for providing a complete and accurate portrayal of the stay.
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Attention to Detail
Complete reviews often include specific details that may not be immediately apparent but contribute significantly to the overall experience. This may include information about noise levels at different times of the day, the quality of provided linens, the availability of essential kitchen supplies, or the ease of parking. These seemingly minor details can significantly impact a guest’s comfort and convenience, and their inclusion enhances the review’s completeness.
The degree of completeness directly correlates to the usefulness of an Airbnb review. By addressing key areas, elaborating on ratings, describing host interaction, and attending to detail, reviewers contribute to a more informed and transparent marketplace. A comprehensive approach ensures that prospective guests have access to the information needed to make well-informed decisions and that hosts receive constructive feedback to improve their offerings.
5. Specificity
Detailed feedback within the Airbnb platform necessitates a focus on specificity to provide actionable insights. Broad generalizations are less effective than precise descriptions. Providing particular details enhances the value of evaluations for prospective guests and hosts.
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Detailed Description of Issues
Instead of stating, “The kitchen was dirty,” a specific review articulates the exact nature of the problem. For example, “There were several unwashed dishes in the sink and noticeable food stains on the countertop.” This degree of detail allows the host to address the precise issue and provides potential guests with a clear understanding of the cleanliness level. Lacking specific descriptions inhibits effective problem-solving.
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Quantifiable Measures Where Possible
Specificity can be enhanced through quantifiable measures. Rather than saying “The apartment was far from the city center,” providing an estimated distance, such as “The apartment was approximately 3 kilometers from the city center,” offers a more objective assessment. Similarly, specifying the size of a bed or the number of available towels gives future guests a more tangible sense of the property’s attributes.
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Naming Specific Amenities or Features
When commenting on amenities, specificity is paramount. If the listing advertised a “high-speed internet connection,” the review should detail the actual internet speed experienced. Reporting, “The internet speed was consistently below 5 Mbps, making video calls difficult,” offers more value than simply stating “The internet was slow.” Specifying the performance of advertised features allows potential guests to gauge their suitability.
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Providing Contextual Information
Specificity includes providing contextual information to clarify the review. For example, instead of writing “The neighborhood was noisy,” detailing the source of the noise and the time of day it was most prevalent provides valuable context. Stating, “The neighborhood was particularly noisy due to construction activities that started at 7 AM,” offers a more complete picture and allows future guests to assess whether the noise level would be disruptive.
The inclusion of precise and contextual details enhances the effectiveness of short-term rental reviews. By focusing on specific descriptions, quantifiable measures, named amenities, and providing relevant context, reviews become more actionable for hosts and more informative for prospective guests. This emphasis on specificity contributes to a more transparent and reliable marketplace.
6. Fairness
Fairness constitutes a cornerstone principle in providing evaluations of short-term rental properties on platforms such as Airbnb. Its presence enhances the credibility and utility of reviews, contributing to a balanced and informative ecosystem. An objective and unbiased approach benefits both prospective guests and hosts by providing accurate reflections of experiences.
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Considering the Host’s Perspective
Fairness necessitates considering circumstances potentially beyond the host’s direct control. Issues such as weather-related disruptions or minor maintenance concerns should be evaluated with understanding. Holding a host accountable for factors outside their influence detracts from the overall fairness of the evaluation. Contextual awareness is essential in providing balanced and realistic feedback. For instance, a power outage due to a regional storm should not disproportionately impact the rating of the host’s communication.
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Focusing on Controllable Elements
Evaluations should primarily focus on elements within the host’s control, such as cleanliness, accuracy of listing information, and communication responsiveness. These aspects reflect the host’s direct effort and management of the property. Highlighting deficiencies in these areas provides actionable feedback and assists future guests in making informed decisions. Conversely, factors such as neighborhood noise levels (unless misrepresented in the listing) should be considered separately from the host’s direct responsibilities.
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Avoiding Inflammatory Language
Fairness necessitates avoiding inflammatory or accusatory language. A constructive approach focuses on describing the experience objectively rather than assigning blame or making personal attacks. Descriptive language, devoid of exaggeration, promotes a more balanced and trustworthy evaluation. Instead of stating “The host clearly doesn’t care about the property,” a fairer assessment might be “Communication was limited, and several maintenance issues were not addressed during the stay.”
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Acknowledging Positive Aspects
Even when significant issues arise, fairness dictates acknowledging positive aspects of the property or host’s service. A balanced review mentions both strengths and weaknesses, providing a more comprehensive portrayal of the experience. Recognizing efforts made by the host, even if problems exist, contributes to a more nuanced and unbiased evaluation. For example, acknowledging the host’s prompt communication despite a cleanliness issue demonstrates fairness and contextual awareness.
These facets of fairness are integral to the effective composition of short-term rental reviews. By prioritizing objectivity, focusing on controllable elements, avoiding inflammatory language, and acknowledging positive aspects, reviewers contribute to a more reliable and informative Airbnb platform. Fairness enhances the credibility of reviews, benefiting both prospective guests and hosts seeking constructive feedback.
7. Timeliness
The temporal proximity between a short-term rental stay and the submission of an evaluation directly influences the accuracy and relevance of the feedback. Delaying a review risks diminishing the reviewer’s recall of specific details, potentially leading to omissions or inaccuracies that compromise the overall utility of the assessment. Immediate reflection on the experience enables a more comprehensive and detailed recollection of events, contributing to a richer and more informative review. For example, the specifics of a malfunctioning appliance or a notable interaction with the host are more accurately reported when addressed promptly. Delayed feedback might only vaguely recall “issues with the kitchen” or “difficulty contacting the host,” lacking the specificity necessary for effective problem resolution.
Furthermore, timeliness directly impacts the actionable nature of the evaluation for both prospective guests and hosts. A prompt review provides potential guests with up-to-date information regarding the property’s current condition and the host’s recent performance. This allows them to make more informed booking decisions based on the most relevant data. For hosts, timely feedback enables the swift identification and rectification of any shortcomings. Addressing a cleanliness issue or a malfunctioning amenity promptly, based on recent feedback, minimizes the likelihood of similar negative experiences for subsequent guests. Conversely, delayed reviews limit the host’s ability to take corrective action in a timely manner, potentially perpetuating problems and negatively affecting future bookings.
Therefore, the prompt submission of short-term rental evaluations is not merely a matter of convenience but a crucial factor in ensuring the accuracy, relevance, and actionable nature of the feedback. Timeliness minimizes recall bias, provides prospective guests with current information, and allows hosts to address issues proactively. Prioritizing the timely completion of reviews contributes to a more transparent and reliable Airbnb ecosystem, fostering informed decision-making and promoting continuous improvement in the quality of short-term rental experiences.
8. Usefulness
The utility of a short-term rental evaluation on Airbnb is directly proportional to adherence to the principles of effective composition. A review’s usefulness stems from its ability to inform potential guests and provide actionable feedback to hosts. Therefore, understanding how to construct a review to maximize its benefit is paramount. A review lacking in specificity or objectivity, for instance, offers limited value to prospective guests attempting to assess a property’s suitability. Conversely, a well-structured and informative review can significantly influence booking decisions and facilitate improved service by hosts. The effectiveness of this communication relies on a clear understanding of what constitutes a helpful evaluation.
The practical significance of writing useful reviews is evident in several scenarios. Consider a guest seeking a family-friendly accommodation. A review that specifically mentions the availability of a crib, high chair, or child-safe amenities directly addresses this need. Similarly, a review detailing the proximity of the property to local attractions, grocery stores, or public transportation provides valuable information for guests planning their itinerary. Hosts also benefit from useful evaluations, receiving actionable insights on areas for improvement. For example, a detailed report of a malfunctioning appliance or a persistent noise issue allows the host to promptly address the problem, enhancing the experience for future guests.
Ultimately, the connection between the ability to write a well-crafted review and its ensuing usefulness is undeniable. Prioritizing accuracy, clarity, objectivity, completeness, specificity, fairness, and timeliness, as previously outlined, directly translates into increased value for both guests and hosts. Challenges remain in ensuring all reviewers possess the skills and motivation to provide genuinely helpful feedback. However, by emphasizing the importance of these elements and providing clear guidelines, the Airbnb community can strive to create a more informative and reliable platform for all users.
9. Constructiveness
Constructiveness is a crucial element within the broader framework of crafting effective short-term rental evaluations on Airbnb. Its presence transforms feedback from mere complaint or praise into actionable intelligence, fostering positive change for both hosts and prospective guests. The absence of constructiveness often renders a review ineffective, reducing its contribution to the overall quality of the platform. A constructive review, by contrast, identifies specific areas for improvement and offers actionable suggestions, contributing to a cycle of continuous enhancement. This approach not only highlights deficiencies but also provides a pathway for remediation.
Consider two scenarios. A non-constructive review might state, “The apartment was dirty.” This provides limited information. A constructive counterpart would specify, “The bathroom tiles showed signs of mold, and the kitchen countertops had visible food residue. Implementing a more thorough cleaning protocol, particularly in these areas, could enhance the overall guest experience.” The latter example not only identifies the specific issue but also suggests a practical solution. Similarly, rather than simply stating “The host was unresponsive,” a constructive approach might articulate, “Communication response times were typically over 24 hours. Establishing a system for more prompt replies, especially during peak hours, would be beneficial.” These examples demonstrate the tangible difference between vague criticism and actionable feedback, highlighting the practical application of constructiveness.
In summary, constructiveness is an indispensable component of effective Airbnb reviews. Its implementation enables hosts to address specific areas needing improvement, leading to enhanced guest satisfaction and positive reputational gains. By focusing on actionable suggestions rather than mere complaints, reviewers contribute to a more transparent and reliable marketplace. Overcoming challenges, such as reviewers lacking the experience or desire to provide constructive feedback, requires education and clear guidelines emphasizing the importance of this approach. Upholding this standard promotes continuous improvement within the Airbnb ecosystem, benefiting both property owners and travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries related to the construction of effective Airbnb reviews. Understanding these points is crucial for both hosts and prospective guests seeking to navigate the platform effectively.
Question 1: What constitutes a “verified stay” and why is it important for a review?
A verified stay confirms that the reviewer actually booked and completed a stay at the reviewed property through the Airbnb platform. This verification adds credibility to the review, as it indicates firsthand experience. Reviews lacking verification may be viewed with skepticism, as they could potentially originate from biased or fraudulent sources. Airbnb typically indicates verified stays with a visual marker or badge.
Question 2: Is there a character limit for reviews on Airbnb, and how does this impact review composition?
Airbnb does impose a character limit on reviews. While the specific limit may vary, it necessitates conciseness and prioritization of key details. Reviewers should focus on the most relevant aspects of the experience, employing clear and succinct language. Long, rambling reviews may exceed the character limit, resulting in truncated or incomplete feedback.
Question 3: How does Airbnb handle potentially defamatory or libelous reviews?
Airbnb maintains a policy against defamatory or libelous content. Reviews containing false statements or malicious intent may be subject to removal. Both hosts and guests have the opportunity to report reviews that they believe violate Airbnb’s content policies. Airbnb will then investigate the claim and take appropriate action, which may include removing the review or requiring revisions.
Question 4: Are hosts permitted to respond to reviews, and what are the guidelines for such responses?
Hosts are typically permitted to respond to guest reviews. However, such responses must adhere to Airbnb’s content policies, which prohibit personal attacks, discriminatory language, and promotional content. Host responses should be professional and constructive, addressing specific concerns raised in the review and offering clarification or solutions where appropriate. Abusive or retaliatory responses may result in penalties.
Question 5: Can reviews be edited after submission, and if so, what are the limitations?
The ability to edit reviews after submission is typically limited. Airbnb often provides a short window of time (e.g., 48 hours) during which reviewers can make revisions. After this period, the review is generally locked, preventing further modifications. This policy encourages reviewers to carefully consider their feedback before submitting it.
Question 6: What recourse do hosts have if they believe a review is unfair or inaccurate?
Hosts who believe a review is unfair or inaccurate can report it to Airbnb, providing evidence to support their claim. Airbnb will then investigate the matter and determine whether the review violates its content policies. In some cases, Airbnb may remove the review or allow the host to add a public response to provide their perspective. However, Airbnb generally refrains from intervening in disputes based solely on subjective opinions.
Effective short-term rental review creation relies on understanding the specific platform’s guidelines and adhering to principles of fairness, accuracy, and clarity. Ignoring these facets diminishes the review’s utility for hosts and future guests alike.
The subsequent section will delve into strategies to improve the visibility of your property on the Airbnb platform.
Tips on Optimal Review Composition for Airbnb
The following suggestions aim to improve the quality and impact of evaluations submitted on the Airbnb platform.
Tip 1: Prioritize Factual Accuracy. Reviews grounded in verifiable details enhance credibility. Before submission, verify information regarding amenities, location, and property condition to ensure alignment with reality.
Tip 2: Employ Specific Examples. General statements often lack impact. Replace vague descriptions with concrete examples to provide a clearer understanding. Instead of noting “poor cleanliness,” detail specific issues encountered, such as “uncleaned surfaces in the kitchen.”
Tip 3: Maintain Objectivity. Reviews should strive for impartiality, distinguishing between personal preferences and factual observations. Avoid overly emotional language and focus on controllable elements, such as cleanliness, communication, and listing accuracy.
Tip 4: Address Key Aspects Comprehensively. A complete review covers essential facets, including cleanliness, accuracy, communication, location, and value. Omissions reduce the review’s utility and overall effectiveness.
Tip 5: Time Submission Strategically. Prompt submission enhances accuracy and relevance. Immediate reflection on the experience allows for a more detailed recollection, facilitating more specific commentary.
Tip 6: Consider the Recipient. Reviews should provide actionable intelligence for hosts. Constructive suggestions for improvement offer greater value than simple complaints. Focus on remediable issues.
Tip 7: Structure Content Logically. Organize comments into distinct paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of the stay. Bullet points or numbered lists can further clarify individual points within each category.
Adhering to these principles will foster reviews that inform potential guests and empower hosts to improve their offerings.
The culmination of these guidelines promotes a more trusted platform for all users. Continue reading to explore the conclusion of this article.
Conclusion
The preceding discussion has thoroughly explored the multifaceted nature of how to write review on airbnb, emphasizing the significance of accuracy, clarity, objectivity, completeness, specificity, fairness, timeliness, usefulness, and constructiveness. Mastery of these elements enables the creation of evaluations that are both informative for potential guests and actionable for property owners. Prioritizing these characteristics ensures that feedback contributes to a more transparent and reliable platform for all users.
The ongoing commitment to producing high-quality, insightful assessments within the Airbnb ecosystem remains paramount. By adhering to the principles outlined above, both guests and hosts contribute to a continuously improving environment, fostering informed decision-making and promoting overall trust within the short-term rental market. The cumulative effect of thoughtful and well-composed evaluations strengthens the foundation upon which the Airbnb community thrives.
