CHINESE hosts are local travel influencers, who always share the most authentic ways to enjoy destinations with guests, said a report released in January by the lodging and short-term vacation rental provider Airbnb. According to the report, “slashie,” “well-educated” and “diversified” are the top three labels for Airbnb hosts in China. More than 80 percent of Chinese Airbnb hosts have another job and 90 percent have some university or higher degree. They mostly work in the fields of arts, entertainment, technology, Internet and information services, and real estate, the report unveiled. More than 90 percent of interviewed hosts made at least one recommendation to their guests last year, and 79 percent of interviewed guests visited places recommended by their hosts. By recommending the unique, lesser-known attractions and shops, those hosts have brought considerable economic benefits and employment to the local community. Chinese hosts remain confident in the challenging year of 2020. Approximately 90 percent of surveyed hosts are highly or very willing to keep hosting in 2021, the report says. (China Daily) | 