Dramatic drop in occupancy / views in Cape Town Sout Africa

[Soline9]

Hello!

For the past few months, I have noticed a dramatic drop in the bookings of my apartment in in Cape Town (South Africa), despite being Superhost and 5 star for 2 consecutive years.
The other major booking platform has completely taken over. U used to have 20% Airbnb 20% the other one, but it is now almost 100% of the other one. Even my promotions dont get 1 view !
I think it is a real pity because prefer working with AirBnB guests. Is this a common trend? I think Airbnb is loosing market share in Cape Town and should do a big push.

Thanks for your feedback!

[Sophia]

Hey there @Soline9,

I just wanted to drop in and say that there has been lots of chat about it being a slow season in the CC, it inspired me to write a post about it here. 

There are many Hosts facing similar experiences about it being a quiet time. 

Here's a few threads where Hosts share their experiences and ideas on how to increase bookings.

Another couple of threads discuss how there has been no bookings yet and hosts share their advice here, here and here

I hope this helps! 😊

[Soline9]

Thank you Sophia, I will read with interest!

Just to clarify: the season has actually been very good in Cape Town (South Africa). The drop I am experiencing only concern bookings on AirBnB. The competitor of AirBnB is completely taking over the market. So I don't have issue filling my apartment, but I would prefer doing so with AirBnB (better platform, better guests, better experience overall).
I beleive AirBnB should look into it, not only leave it to the hosts. 

Regards,
Soline

[Vasigan0]

I am experiencing the same problem with the Airbnb platform. Hardly any viewings or bookings - been on the platform for past 5 years. Might have to look at alternatives to Airbnb.

[Soline9]

I was about to escalate the issue again to Airbnb management. 

For weeks now, nothing has happened on my listing despite promotions, discounts, etc... I don't have one single booking,  even for the coming summer months. Booking.com has completely taken over including digital nomads. It is a pity as i prefered working with Airbnb.

I am disappointed by Airbnb lack of response. They always mention lack of  promotions (I do them all the time), or low season (my apartment is actually fully booked thanks to booking during the low season), it is not a satisfactory answer.