Airbnb Hosts in Northeastern Parishes Gearing Up for Winter Tourist Season

Airbnb hosts in the northeastern parishes of St. Ann, St. Mary and Portland are looking to tap into the lucrative Airbnb market as the winter tourist season approaches.

This innovative platform, which allows visitors to stay in private homes and unique accommodations, represents a shift in the way people approach travel and lodging.

Unlike traditional hotels, Airbnbs offer a community-based experience that aligns perfectly with the distinct beauty and charm of the northeast region and history of attracting longer-staying visitors.

With beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, they are well-positioned to attract a growing segment of European tourists who prefer the intimacy and affordability that Airbnb offers.

St. Mary businesswoman Sandra Hamilton, who is an Airbnb host, tells JIS News that as more travellers seek out unique and authentic experiences, the parish stands ready to showcase its distinct charm and vibrant community life.

“With American Airlines expected to offer daily flights into Boscobel soon, we are very excited about the upcoming winter tourist season,” she says.

Operator of the Perfect Hideaway in Fairy Hill, Portland, Marcia Lawrence, says the time is ripe to capitalise on the Airbnb trend.

“Visitors seeking longer stays are increasingly finding Airbnb to be a more cost-effective option. This affordability is particularly attractive to tourists from Europe, who often look for value without sacrificing experience,” she tells JIS News.

“With its beautiful beaches and diverse attractions, Portland is well-positioned to attract these visitors. Many travellers prefer the community-oriented experience that Airbnb provides, allowing them to explore the local area more fully and engage with residents,” she notes.

Andrew Rhodd, another host from Portland, is actively building vacation cabins to complement his existing one-bedroom dwelling in Comfort Castle, which is already listed on the Airbnb platform.

He notes that Airbnbs allow persons who are not part of the large conglomerates or hotel chains to get a piece of the tourism pie.

“By encouraging more residents to become hosts, Portland can create a sustainable model that benefits both the community and its visitors,” he points out.

“This is the very reason why we currently have vacation cabins under construction,” he adds.

Speaking with JIS News, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says Airbnb has revolutionised the tourism industry, enriching the travel experience for guests who seek authentic encounters within local communities, while providing a platform where homeowners are empowered to earn extra income.

He says that what makes the northeastern parishes so conducive to the Airbnb model is that traditionally they are destinations that attract longer-stay visitors and persons in search of adventure.

“By staying in private residences, particularly in St. Mary and Portland, travellers can immerse themselves in the local culture, gaining insights and experiences that traditional hotels often cannot offer. Individuals can rent out their homes, spare rooms, or unique spaces to visitors… a classic community tourism experience,” he points out.

Mr. Bartlett says that not only does the rise of Airbnb represent a broader trend towards community-centric tourism but also that travellers are increasingly looking for unique, personalised experiences that allow them to connect with the destinations they visit.

“These [parishes], with their stunning beaches, lush landscapes and rich history, are ideal for this style of tourism. Their unique offerings, combined with the affordability of Airbnb accommodations, create a compelling proposition for both hosts and visitors,” he points out.

For his part, Mayor of St. Ann’s Bay, Michael Belnavis, tells JIS News that the appeal of the Airbnb platform has resonated “beyond belief” throughout the garden parish of St. Ann, admirably complementing the offerings of the traditional hotels.

“By tapping into the growing demand for community-centric travel experiences, the parish continues to attract a diverse range of visitors, particularly from Europe. The economic benefits for local hosts and the community are substantial, creating an ecosystem that supports both residents and tourists,” he says.

Mayor of Port Antonio, Paul Thompson agrees, noting that the model helps to foster a sense of community and “encourages travellers to support local businesses, enhancing the overall economic impact of tourism in the area”.

Chief Strategist and Senior Adviser in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright, for his part, says the allure of the region’s natural beauty, combined with its rich cultural experiences, positions the area as an attractive option for visitors looking for an alternative to more commercialised tourist spots.

He notes that as local business interests ramp up their efforts to market the region as a prime Airbnb destination, the potential for growth in the subsector appears promising.