This week's roundup covers Airbnb.org's emergency housing efforts following Hurricane Melissa, Nantucket voters' legalization of short-term rentals across the island, Vail's narrowly defeated short-term rental tax, and a stunning Airbnb in East Greenland offering a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience. Let's dive in.

Following the landfall of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa at the beginning of last week, Airbnb.org is providing free temporary housing for people displaced by the storm. The nonprofit arm of Airbnb is partnering with local and national emergency organizations to connect evacuees and relief workers with short-term stays in the affected areas. Since its founding in 2020, Airbnb.org has provided 1.6 million nights of free temporary housing to more than 250,000 people worldwide. Anyone interested in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Melissa can visit airbnb.org/hurricanemelissa to sign up as an Airbnb.org host offering free or discounted stays, or to make a direct donation.

This week, Nantucket, Massachusetts, voters approved Article 1, a measure that legalizes short-term rentals across the island and ends a five-year zoning dispute. The article passed at Tuesday’s Special Town Meeting by a vote of 1,045 to 421, reaching the two-thirds threshold with 71 percent support. The new rule permits short-term rentals in all zoning districts except one commercial-industrial area near the airport. Supporters say it provides long-overdue clarity and stability for homeowners and the town’s tourism economy, while opponents continue to warn it could invite more off-island investment and reduce year-round housing availability.

Previously reported in Industry News on October 31st, Vail, Colorado, proposed an additional 6 percent tax on short-term rentals, culminating in a highly debated vote this week. Supporters argued that the tax would help generate needed funding for affordable housing, while opponents cautioned that it would discourage tourism and unfairly burden short-term rental hosts. Airbnb backed the opposition campaign, contributing $30,000 and arguing the proposal targeted individual property owners while leaving larger hotels unaffected. This week, the proposal, known as Ballot Issue 2A, was narrowly voted down, with the final count showing the proposal trailing by a slim margin of 36 votes.

BBC released an article highlighting a floating Airbnb in East Greenland that offers guests a rare wilderness experience, complete with glacier-front views and the chance to see the northern lights from huge panoramic windows. The rental, located on a fjord near Kulusuk, accommodates just two guests and is available for only a few weeks each year. Nightly rates start at around $750, which includes boat transfers and dinner. This listing showcases Airbnb's unique and growing portfolio of stays and reflects the rising trend for experience-driven, nature-focused vacations.

Expect more updates on policy changes, unique stays, and emergency response efforts as the industry continues to adapt to global trends. Check back next week for the latest news!