Airbnb sparks anger by defying lockdown laws with its ‘Covid-19 retreats’

A SPOKESMAN for the government has said Airbnb hosts advertising properties as coronavirus hideouts are “dangerous and irresponsible.”

Airbnb member-owners have listed homes as being ‘Covid-19 retreats’ and ‘perfect for isolating with family’ in the British countryside, in complete disregard to the lockdown laws put in place to slow the spread of human contact.

New coronavirus laws say holiday accommodation should be provided only to key workers needing to self-isolate, but, some listings on the site allow instant booking of rentals without any vetting.

The properties advertised as places to self-isolate include an ‘idyllic cottage,’ a houseboat and even a castle. Only one Airbnb host has said their rental was available solely to key workers, but many others complained the lockdown had disrupted their business.

Tourism Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “Our advice is clear. “Essential travel does not include holidays, leisure travel and visits to second homes – and people must remain in their primary residence.

“It is incredibly irresponsible, and dangerous for some property owners to be marketing themselves as ‘isolation retreats’.

“We are writing to companies today to remind them of their responsibilities at this time.”