TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands--Airbnb continues to deepen its roots in the Caribbean, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the British Virgin Islands (BVI) to collaborate on areas of common interest. This strategic partnership aims to drive local, authentic and sustainable tourism to the islands, democratise the tourism economy and directly benefit Virgin Islanders.
The British Virgin Islands is the latest Caribbean destination to formalise an agreement with Airbnb, with 16 collaboration or voluntary tax collection agreements signed within the last two years.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement, BVI Director of Tourism, Sharon Flax Brutus said, “We are pleased to be a formal part of the Airbnb network. We think Airbnb properties present a fabulous opportunity for home share guests to be able to experience authentic British Virgin Islands culture and lifestyle.”
Airbnb plays an increasingly important role in BVI’s tourism sector with over 100 hosts throughout the archipelagic nation earning substantial annual receipts. This income helps support families and strengthen the local economy.
“Airbnb is proud to partner with the BVI Tourist Board to diversify the local tourism product through home sharing,” stated Carlos Munoz, Campaign Manager, Public Policy and Communications for the Caribbean and Central America. “This partnership will help to strengthen tourism development, one of the nation’s largest economic sectors, and generate economic opportunity throughout the islands.”
Over 2,000 guests booked accommodations through Airbnb between July 2017 and July 2018, with an average stay of four days. The income generated by these visits stays in the local economy, helping Virgin Islanders rebuild after the catastrophic 2017 hurricane season that crippled the islands and accounted for more than US $3.6 billion in damage.
Supporting communities during tough times is a commitment Airbnb has made and kept in countries throughout the region. Through this partnership with BVI, Airbnb will explore providing support through multiple initiatives, including Airbnb’s Open Homes Program.
As for the future of tourism in BVI, this strategic partnership between Airbnb and BVI provides an enormous opportunity to expand the economic, cultural and environmental value that the tourism sector can bring.
Airbnb will continue to collaborate with governments in the region to support healthy tourism growth through destination marketing and inclusive, sustainable tourism initiatives that democratise the tourism product and empower locals.
