The World Travel & Tourism Council has unveiled protocols to enable short-term rentals to begin welcoming guests, backed by the UNWTO.
The pair said the move avoided the emergence of multiple standards, “which would only confuse the consumer and delay the sector’s recovery”.
Gloria Guevara, WTTC president & CEO, said: “Worldwide attractions, car hire and short-term rentals, are all represent key components of many family holidays, so it’s vital we establish measures which allow safe travels to take place for holidaymakers and travellers.
“Consumer confidence is crucial to create a climate in which Travel & Tourism can resume. We know travellers will want to explore and engage with the world around them once more and their return will also help power the world’s much-needed economic recovery.
“We would like to pay tribute to all those companies in the global private sector who have stepped forward and rallied around to support WTTC Safe Travels protocols. They create the consistency needed to allow a re-invigorated Travel & Tourism sector to re-open for business.
“The expertise from businesses large and small has contributed to define the new experience for travellers and these robust global measures have been embraced around the world.”
Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder & CEO said: "The desire to travel is deeply rooted in humanity. The industry will rebound and is critical to supporting the social and economic recovery of communities. Airbnb welcomes the WTTC's work to create health and safety protocols that protect communities and support governmental efforts to reopen economies."
Measures include:
• Use of contactless technology to enable automation at check-in and payment where possible
• Minimise physical interaction when providing guests with keys, ideally in a contactless manner by offering self- check-in and check-out, where possible
• Enhance sanitation, disinfection and deep cleaning practices as well as increasing their cleaning/disinfection frequency with a focus on high-frequency touch points, including bedrooms, common areas, washrooms and kitchens, including cutlery and utensil sanitisation
• Provide guests with physical distancing etiquette, including in elevators if relevant, through signage
• Make available hand sanitiser to guests at entrance of short-term rental