[Celebration] Hospitality and words of care

[Rie9]

This article is a part of a series about building connection through hospitality.

I aim to be a Host who creates a comfortable space for the most vulnerable guests who may come to stay. I also want my two listings to reflect my background: I’m passionate about farming and dogs, and I’m a mother of three children. One of my listings is a tiny house surrounded by an orchard with a dog run, ideal for couples or solo travelers with dogs. The other is a family-friendly house with a flat and wheelchair-accessible interior.

To create an inviting atmosphere, I believe that small, warm words are more effective than grandiose words. I also feel that cozy sheets and beds, a clean room, and a message card from the Host  help guests feel less alone. 

My personal experience also informs my approach to hosting. When my children were little, I couldn’t enjoy traveling. Traveling with two boys, ages 6 and 8, and a baby girl, meant spending more time worrying than relaxing or enjoying the trip. I keep this in mind when I write messages to guests. For example, families with small children may be busy in the morning. I tell them, “ If you want to check out late, let me know as soon as possible. And don’t worry about cleaning up.” Despite that message, very few families have left my listing in a messy state.

When I recommend nearby restaurants and shops to my guests, I often include notes. I might say, “This is my favorite item on the menu!” or “The owner has been a dear friend of mine for over 10 years.” That little extra touch encourages guests to try those establishments, and later they tell me they feel like they’ve found their go-to place.

What caring words do you use in your messages or notes to guests? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Photo caption: 1. Airbnb Japan hosted a meetup with the village chamber of commerce, tourism association members, and village officials. This gathering was to help local officials understand Airbnb.

 2and3 : I invited children with medical needs and their families to my listing. Families with children with severe disabilities may have difficulty dining out and an overnight stay. I had them enjoy a BBQ in my yard. The house is also designed to be barrier-free with portable ramps and handrails that can be retrofitted. Even if the house cannot be fully renovated, there are things that can be done.

[Nayibi0]

@Rie9 I loved your blog, congratulations, that speaks very beautifully of the good people that are still left, blessings and a cordial greeting.

Nayibi 

[Rie9]

Arigato Nayibi0! 

The interaction with the people you meet through Airbnb is so inspiring and beautiful. 

[Nayibi0]

Si es verdad, hace poco que empecé con airbnb a rentar las propiedades, me gustaría llegar ser súper host y tal b mes poder ayudar a muchas personas a cumplir sus objetivos y sueños, gracias fue muy lindo tu blog y seguiré cada una de las cosas que escribes son muy importantes. Gracias 🙏 

[Nayibi0]

If it's true, I recently started with airbnb to rent the properties, I would like to become a super host and such a month to be able to help many people fulfill their goals and dreams, thank you was very nice your blog and I will follow each of the things you write are very important. Thank you 🙏

[Sarah5000]

@Rie9 I love how you take care of the minority of people! Yes we need more accessible spaces and pet friendly places too. Airbnb makes these happen !