The Rise of Airbnb in Rural Newfoundland: A Boom for the Local Economy
Written by: James Tarrant
Introduction
Rural Newfoundland, with its rugged landscapes and charming communities, has seen a significant rise in the popularity of Airbnb rentals. This trend has not only boosted the local economy but also enriched the tourism experience by offering unique accommodations that showcase the region's rich culture and natural beauty
Top Airbnbs in Rural Newfoundland
Several Airbnb rentals in rural Newfoundland have gained popularity due to their unique offerings and excellent guest reviews. Here are a few notable ones:
Eagles Nest Cliff House: This luxury suite offers panoramic ocean views and ecological reserve islands in Tors Cove. It features a private sauna, a hot tub, and an outdoor cook centre.
OceanFront Saltbox 'SeaForever': This home in Port de Grave offers stunning ocean views and a hot tub¹.
Beach House - Portugal Cove-St. Philip's: Overlooking the Atlantic on the rugged coast in Conception Bay, this beach house offers breathtaking views and a fully stocked kitchen².
Bird's Eye View - Burlington/Little Arm: This colourful cottage on the edge of the Salmon River offers tranquillity and breathtaking sunrise and harbour views.
Water's Edge with Hot Tub - Goobies: This two-bedroom cottage provides easy access to hiking trails and includes complimentary kayaks for paddling around the pond it’s set upon.
Why Are They Popular?
The popularity of these Airbnb rentals can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, they offer unique and personalized experiences that traditional accommodations often lack. Guests can enjoy the comfort of a home while immersing themselves in the local culture.
Secondly, these rentals are in picturesque settings, offering guests stunning views of Newfoundland's natural beauty. Proximity to local attractions such as hiking trails, ecological reserves, and the ocean adds to their appeal.
Local Attractions Boosting Their Business
Rural Newfoundland has many scenic and local attractions that draw tourists to the region. These include Gros Morne National Park, L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, and the Bonavista Peninsula. The presence of these attractions near the Airbnb rentals significantly boosts their business as guests often prefer accommodations that provide easy access to local sights.
Economic Impact of Airbnb in Rural Newfoundland
The rise of Airbnb in rural Newfoundland has had a significant positive impact on the local economy. In 2023, hosts and guests on Airbnb helped generate an estimated $10 billion in economic activity across Canada. This has supported jobs across multiple industries and contributed substantial tax revenue for governments.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, there has been an increase in unlicensed accommodations around the province, which can lead to a lack of health and safety measures. However, the new regulations introduced aim to strengthen operating rules for short-term accommodations, forcing them to be registered with the provincial government.
Increase in Airbnb Rentals in Rural Newfoundland
Airbnb rentals in rural Newfoundland have significantly increased in recent years. This is mainly due to the region's growing popularity as a tourist destination and the lucrative opportunities it presents for property owners.
Transforming the Nfld Tourism Industry
The growth of Airbnb in rural Newfoundland has indeed reshaped the tourism sector. The unique accommodations offered by Airbnb have provided economic benefits and enhanced the visitor experience by offering a taste of local culture and easy access to the region's natural beauty.
Having effective regulations in place will ensure that the expansion of Airbnb is sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders involved - from homeowners and guests to the local community and the government.
With its captivating natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Newfoundland attracts visitors worldwide. With the promising future of Airbnb in the region, more and more visitors are expected to choose it for their stay, further boosting the local economy and enriching their travel experience. It's a testament to how innovation and technology can positively impact local communities and economies.
