A Simple and Unique Way to Support the People of Ukraine Using Airbnb

Like many of you, I have been following closely the conflict happening in Ukraine over these last few weeks. Like all conflicts and natural disasters that create human suffering, I try to find unique ways that I can help even if it’s some small donation or sending words of hope to those going through a difficult time.

For some reason Ukraine hit me particularly hard. Maybe it’s because I actually have friends there, or maybe it’s just the thought of knowing that just 3 weeks ago, they were living normal lives, working jobs, running businesses and today their country has been invaded, thousands killed, millions displaced, and life will NEVER be the same for them.

Once reality set in, I looked for ways to help. There were plenty of websites to donate and support everything from military to the refugees. Call me crazy, but I am the type of person that tries to find unique ways of helping. Something that is thoughtful, and more than just giving some nonprofit my money and going about my day.

For 2 years I have been a host on Airbnb and VRBO. We own 3 properties and managing them has been one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done. To think you can make money by crafting incredible experiences for travelers around the world is something I have grown a deep passion for.

Last night I was in a large Short term rental Facebook group when I saw something that took my breath away. A gentleman decided to show his support for Ukraine by booking a stay at one of the hosts properties there, and sending a message saying.. I have no plans to stay there, but I booked to show my support and I am praying for you and your family.

The response from the host was so genuine and so full of gratitude that I sobbed deeply for about 5 min. This morning at 5am, I woke up and decided to do the same thing. I searched Airbnb for rentals in Ukraine, I found a host that has been doing this a long time, and I booked a week long stay. I simply messaged her what you see below.

Her response was immediate and again brought me to tears. In that moment, I realized 2 things.

1. I can make a direct difference to someone in Ukraine that is going through devastation.
2. This person who is a host just had their entire business destroyed. They may have lost their home and it will for sure be years before they will ever be able to host guests again. If this was how they made their living, then they probably have nothing.

I decided right then and there to make a post on Facebook showing how others could help people directly.

I had no idea it would go viral. Within hours, dozens and dozens of people shared my post and started booking trips with hosts all over Ukraine. The responses were incredible! People were just so grateful that someone thought of them enough to support. A short time later, people started using the hashtag #SymbolicStay and as I write this, the messages continue to pour in.

After a few more hours, I started getting tons of messages from friends were getting responses from the hosts expressing their gratitude. As I write this they keep pouring in!!

I wanted to write this to not only spread the word, but as a host, I wanted to share some things that we have learned from hosts on how to best support if you choose to. Many of the places are very cheap and you can book a symbolic stay at some for $2-$3 per day. Of course if you have the means… DO MORE!

1. Book for as soon as possible on the calendar. Hosts do not get paid until the stay is over, so try to book in March or whatever the first available
2. Airbnb has stated they will take no fees and so you can feel good knowing 100% of your booking will go to the host.
3. If you make a post sharing that you booked a symbolic stay or the hosts response, black out their name and address in order to protect their safety and privacy.
4. Search for hosts that have multiple listings. Chances are, these hosts potentially do this full time and have no other job or career. Even when the chaos is over, it will be years before they can ever rent to travelers and so they may have no income for a very long time.

Conclusion: If you feel compelled to contribute, TAKE ACTION! One can only hope that if you were ever in the same scenario, a stranger that you don’t know just might throw you a lifeline. When you book, share you story, spread the word, and use the #symbolicstay to let others know the good deed that you did. Thank you for reading.