Summary

Peer to Peer Accommodation networks presents a new conceptual framework which offers an initial explanation for the continuing and rapid success of 'disruptive innovators' and their effects on the international hospitality industry, with a specific focus on Airbnb, in the international context. Using her first-hand experience as a host on both traditional holiday accommodation webpages and a peer-to-peer accommodation network, respected tourism academic Sara Dolnicar examines possible reasons for the explosive success of peer to peer accommodation networks, investigates related topics which are less frequently discussed - such as charitable activities and social activism - and offers a future research agenda. Using first hand empirical results, this text provides much needed insight into this 'disruptive innovator' for those studying and working within the tourism and hospitality industries. This book discusses a wealth of issues including: * The disruptive innovation model - the criteria for identifying and understanding new disruptive innovators, and how peer-to-peer accommodation networks comply with these; * The factors postulated to drive the success of these networks and the celebration of variation; * Who are genuine networks members, tourist motivators and the chance of the 'perfect match'; * Pricing, discrimination and stimulation of the creation of new businesses.