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By Stacey Leasca, Southern Living
Last Friday, Airbnb announced its list of the top 10 most hospitable towns in the United States. And surprise, surprise, the company’s number one pick is a Southern favorite.
“As travelers embark on trips away from home, it’s the authentic connections and hospitable touch points with locals that have become increasingly important in their travel experiences,” the home rental company shared in a post.
So where exactly is the most hospitable town in the nation? It’s none other than Asheville, North Carolina.
“While Airbnb hosts across the country already demonstrate a special kind of hospitality, there are hosts who take it a step further, earning their respective cities a spot on Airbnb’s top 10 most hospitable cities in the U.S. list,” Airbnb stated. “Based on cities with the highest percentage of 5-star rated guest reviews of listings in the last year, Asheville, North Carolina, comes out on top, with guests describing their hosts as ‘warm,’ ‘helpful’ and ‘inviting.’”
Though really, this shouldn’t be shocking, considering being polite, kind and helpful are all key tenants to good southern hospitality.
Of course, Asheville isn’t the only place to show the world just how great Southern hospitality can be. According to Airbnb, the state of Texas claimed three spots on the most hospitable list including Austin, San Antonio and Dallas.
“Travelers may be catching onto the outstanding hospitality offered throughout the Lone Star State, as there has been a 77 percent growth rate of inbound Airbnb guest arrivals from 2017 to 2018,” Airbnb said.
If you’re looking for other hospitable places to visit around the nation Airbnb also named Portland, Oregon; St. Louis Missouri; Nashville, Tennessee; Denver, Colorado; and Charleston, South Carolina to its list.
And if you’re hoping to be a more hospitable host, Airbnb suggested giving your home a few key touches that won’t go unnoticed by guests such as “a beach bag ready and packed with sunscreen and towels for impromptu trips to the beach” or place “fresh flowers, chocolates and decor from local artisans” in your home, and pull out “toys and crafts for families traveling with kids.” A little thoughtfulness can certainly go a long way.
