Digital nomads: A growing guest profile boosting the off-season stays
The term ‘digital nomad’ is increasingly mentioned as a new target group in the tourism market. Digital nomads are expected to play a key role in filling accommodation capacity during off-peak periods.
Thanks to its sunny weather, pleasant climate, excellent connectivity, and reliable internet, Croatia is quickly rising as a top choice for digital nomads.
Who are digital nomads?
The concept of digital nomads existed even before the COVID-19 crisis, but the global shift to remote work has enabled people to work from their home, or basically anywhere across the world. Digital nomads are part of the population that is location-independent, relying on information technology to do their jobs. Instead of being tied to an office, they select destinations that offer new experience.
Backed by stable, above-average incomes, digital nomads have the means to explore and stay in various destinations worldwide.
Their length of stay often depends on personal preferences and circumstances. Some digital nomads settle in one destination for an extended period to fully immerse themselves, while others prefer shorter stays across multiple locations to experience greater variety. In both cases, they represent highly desirable guests, though their accommodation needs differ from those of traditional short-term visitors.
What are digital nomads looking for?
Since digital nomads look for accommodation for longer periods, it is important that destinations and properties meet their specific needs.
- Destination’s safety
When planning a trip, travelers first choose a location and then the accommodation. After the COVID-19 experience, safety has become a top priority, along with political stability and natural factors. Once these criteria are met, travelers begin planning their stay.
- Destination’s attractiveness
Digital nomads use their free time to travel and explore the destination. They seek destinations that are interesting, filled with different activities and have good climate conditions while travelling.
- Working conditions
Considering the fact the digital nomads are looking for a place that will be a second home, they need certain amenities suited for their needs. Primarily they need a designated workspace and a fast and reliable internet connection. They also prefer having their own space to prepare food and room to relax.
- Local experience
These types of guests appreciate local culture and customs, striving to get to know and adapt to the local way of life. The role of the host is crucial here - they should step up and introduce the guests to the local community and make their stay as pleasant as possible.
How to shape the services for digital nomads?
Once your accommodation meets all the criteria above, you are ready to host digital nomads. What do you need to look out for?
Long-term stay prices
If your properties are listed on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Expedia, be sure to enable the option for stays longer than 28 days. Otherwise, your listing won’t appear in searches for long-term rentals.
Keep in mind that long-term stays require a different pricing approach than short-term tourist accommodation. The easiest method is to offer weekly or monthly rates set at a discounted percentage of your standard pricing. Many platforms also allow you to apply these discounts directly, without the need to create entirely new rate plans.
Communication
Inquiries for long-term stays can be expected year-round, and the way you communicate with potential guests will shape their first impression. Timely responses, clear communication, and accurate information are essential, so be sure to reply promptly and thoroughly.
Within the digital nomad community, the site Nomad list is well known. It is an online base that contains all the data on the qualities of a certain destination. You’ll also find Croatia on the site, complete with a guide to cities that embrace digital nomads.
Digital nomads in Croatia
Croatia officially offers a temporary stay for digital nomads as of January 1, 2021 introducing a visa for digital nomads which is a new option for citizens who live outside the EU.
Temporary stay can be approved up to 18 months and cannot be extended. You can reapply for a new temporary stay 6 months after the expiry of the previous stay.
The Croatian National Tourist Board has launched a campaign “Croatia, your new office!” with which they are representing Croatia as a pleasant, safe and good quality stay.
Not sure how to adapt to this new type of guest and need some guidance? Don’t worry, Litto is here to help! Feel free to contact us with any questions or collaboration ideas.
