Goh says women make up more than half of Airbnb’s global host community last year. Photo: Airbnb
In recent years, women's influence in shaping the travel and hospitality industry has become more prominent, especially within the short-term home-rental community.
As travellers, they are journeying out in greater numbers and staying in these homes when visiting their dream destinations.
As hosts, they are redefining hospitality by creating welcoming spaces for their guests.
Airbnb Asia Pacific public policy director Mich Goh says women make up more than half of Airbnb’s global host community as of 2024. She also notes that reviews of top-rated women-hosted stays in Malaysia highlight a common trait: attention to detail.
Women travellers seek comfortable, safe and accommodating home-rentals. Photos: Pexels
Thoughtful gestures such as preparing a tray of drinking water when guests arrive, anticipating their needs and willingness to accommodate their special requests goes a long way in making travellers feel welcomed and looked after.
“This hospitality style aligns closely with what many women travellers seek – a sense of security, warmth and a host who genuinely cares about their well-being,” she adds.
Women hosts also excel at fostering deeper connections with guests, providing personalised recommendations, cultural insights, safety and comfort.
Goh says she experienced this firsthand during a family stay at a woman-hosted Airbnb in Hulu Langat, Selangor.
Upon arrival, it was clear that the home was designed and prepared with comfort and thoughtfulness in mind. But what stuck out the most to Goh was the host’s hospitality.
“Her incredible attention to detail ensured that every aspect of our stay felt effortless and welcoming,” shares Goh.“It was the kind of experience that reminded me why so many women hosts are celebrated for the way they make travellers feel truly at home.”
A space to thrive
Goh finds it heartening to witness how these trends – placing connection, comfort and cultural exchange at the forefront – are shaping the future of travel, and is excited to see more women continue to lead the way. “Women guests on Airbnb are also seeking new experiences in a variety of cities, in their own ways, to make lasting connections and memories,” she adds.
For Malaysian women travellers, both international and domestic destinations remain popular. In 2024, Taipei, Bangkok and London were top international destinations while Kuala Lumpur, Johor Baru, Melaka and Penang were the most booked domestic cities.
Women make the best home-rental hosts with their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.
“Notably, Malaysian women travellers aged 30 to 39 are travelling on Airbnb more than any other age group in 2024,” she says.
Women who host rental homes are also able to be empowered economically. Hosting is more than just a financial opportunity for women, it also represents financial independence and the ability to participate in the growing industry.
She says it's inspiring to witness the impact that women have in the industry as it "continues to champion inclusivity and opportunity, ensuring that women – both as travellers and hosts – have the resources and platform to thrive."
