Airbnb special: Boasts of the hosts

Airbnb offers householders a no-commitment relationship with the hospitality business – and around €3,000 a year for a typical Irish host

Deborah and Ultan Herr had planned to rent out their extra house in Portobello, but put it up on Airbnb instead Picture: Maura Hickey
Interior designer Sarah Lafferty listed her home three years ago Picture: Maura Hickey

You’ve heard of Airbnb. It’s the Uber for accommodation that’s changing Ireland and the world.

Part of a broader worldwide movement towards collaborative economies, the booking platform has created a new short-term rental market of spare bedrooms, empty houses and the odd castle.

Founded ...