Seeking Authenticity in Turkish Airbnb Users

Abstract

In this research, which is designed as a qualitative study, it is aimed to reveal the effect of seeking authenticity in Turkish Airbnb users' preference for Airbnb, one of the accommodation sharing applications. In the study, phenomenology approach, one of the qualitative research designs, was adopted and the obtained data were analyzed by descriptive analysis method. MAXQDA was used for the systematic analysis of the interview data. In this context, interviews were held with 25 Turkish Airbnb users. The reasons for choosing Airbnb are economic benefit, home comfort, experiencing innovation and authenticity. Authenticity reduces the price effect. People seeking authenticity are willing to pay more. While nine of the participants seek authenticity in Airbnb residences when determining their travels, they see authenticity as a factor that distinguishes Airbnb from hotels. While Turkish Airbnb users seek authenticity abroad, the search for authenticity in their domestic stays is low. Authenticity consists of two basic elements: interior and atmosphere and external environment. These two elements constitute difference, historical elements, art and locality. Their authentic experience plays an important role in their satisfaction.