Holiday rentals in Italy’s great art cities and, increasingly, in small towns and rural areas, are growing by leaps and bounds. While this is a boon for local economies, more and more communities are being impacted by episodes of antisocial behaviour that are making residents see red.
In England, in the wake of sanctions currently being drafted in record time in Brussels by the European Commission, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced the launch of measures against B&B owners and guests. His aim is to eliminate antisocial ways of behaving such as excessive noise, late-night parties with bright lights, blaring music and the abuse of alcohol, as well as other inconsiderate forms of conduct.
Airbnb.com disclaims any responsibility, stating it “has no control over the conduct of hosts,” and in many countries, chiefly in Scandinavia and the Far East, the problem seldom arises because communities are built on respect and trust. Despite the valuable income stream these short-term tenancies bring in, they are increasingly becoming hotbeds of disorderly conduct that is threatening the tranquility of entire populations.
Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor
