Where’s everyone gone? Where are people’s photos? Isn’t @Airbnb2 all about experiencing the local way and about personality?
When I travel or host with Airbnb I like to see people’s photos and read who they are. It’s about sharing personal space and also about matching experiences and expectations with an interesting dose of the unexpected which makes it an interesting cultural exchange experience.
its understandable that some people might not like to share their photo, I would leave it as an option for some members not to have to show their face. Why not they could publish an image of anything that says something about them. A painting, a flower, a landscape... whatever.
Why hide identity?
More specifically from a host point of view I would like to comment Airbnb’s new policy of not publishing profile photos.
I’ve been hosting on Airbnb for 9 years. I understand from talking to someone from the Airbnb team, that with some people it may also be about discrimination. This is not my case in particular. I believe that, because I’m opening my home to a stranger, seeing each other’s photo is a very important part of making the connection, which indeed is Airbnb’s strength. The Airbnb booking process really makes the difference! Taking away the photo makes me feel uncomfortable as I can’t see who will be coming to my Home. Please understand that I am not a hotel.
As Airbnb takes away this personal feature I’m thinking that I may as well list my home on other platforms. Actually some are charging lower fees.
The issue can lead to endless philosophical talk about drawing the line of freedom, comfort zone and discrimination. I think it is up to each one to act in respect of others. We are people not companies. Homes not hotels. Please keep the Airbnb spirit alive and allow people to see each other.
A racist person will not change because you hide a photo. If they are discriminating they will be acting so even after the booking has been accepted. What next? You will hide names and give members id numbers? Hiding personal information is not going to work. I think Airbnb has a great role in educating people to become inclusive through experiencing a new way of traveling which has become a trend worldwide.
Keep up the good work and vibes!
