A few years ago, I decided to take a leap of faith: leave behind my 9-to-5 job and embark on an adventure through Asia while turning my home into an Airbnb.
It wasn’t an easy decision—managing a property while being halfway across the world sounded daunting—but I wanted to combine my love of travel with financial stability. With the right tools and support, I made it work, creating an income stream that funded my adventures and kept me connected to my responsibilities. Here’s my story of managing an Airbnb while traveling, and how services like Simify, SimsDirect, and ManagedBnbs became indispensable partners on my journey.
The Airbnb Decision
Turning my home into an Airbnb wasn’t just about making money—it was about creating an opportunity. My mortgage was my biggest expense, and I realized that instead of letting my house sit empty while I traveled, I could use it to generate income. After sprucing up the space, listing it on Airbnb, and setting up clear house rules, I took the plunge. The bookings came quickly, and I was thrilled to see my travel fund growing before I even left.
First Stop: Japan
Japan was the first destination on my itinerary, and it had been at the top of my travel bucket list for years. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan offered a unique blend of modernity and tradition. However, managing my Airbnb while traveling meant I couldn’t entirely unplug—I needed to stay connected to handle guest inquiries, confirm bookings, and resolve any issues back home.
That’s where an eSIM came to the rescue. Before leaving, I set up an eSIM for Japan through Simify. It provided me with reliable internet from the moment I landed, without the hassle of finding a local SIM card. From checking guest messages on Airbnb to navigating Tokyo’s subway system, the eSIM was a game-changer.
Later, I discovered SimsDirect also offered excellent eSIM plans tailored for Japan. With affordable rates and seamless activation, their eSIMs became my go-to option for the rest of my trip.
Balancing Travel and Hosting
Managing an Airbnb remotely required some planning and the right tools. Here’s what helped me succeed:
1. Automating Guest Communication
Automation was my secret weapon. I used a platform that scheduled messages to guests, providing check-in instructions, house rules, and friendly reminders. This reduced the need for constant back-and-forth communication, giving me more time to enjoy my travels.
2. Relying on Professional Management
One of the best decisions I made was partnering with ManagedBnbs. Their team took care of everything on the ground, from cleaning and restocking supplies to handling emergency situations. Knowing that my property was in capable hands allowed me to explore Japan without constant worry.
3. Smart Home Technology
I equipped my home with smart locks, which allowed guests to enter using a unique code rather than a physical key. This eliminated the risk of lost keys and made the check-in process seamless.
Exploring Japan While Staying Connected
With the logistical side of hosting under control, I could focus on soaking up Japan’s rich culture. Here are a few highlights of my trip:
- Tokyo: From the vibrant neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku to the tranquil Meiji Shrine, Tokyo was a city of contrasts. I used my eSIM to navigate the sprawling train network and discover hidden gems like small ramen shops and quirky anime cafes.
- Kyoto: Known for its historic temples and traditional tea houses, Kyoto felt like stepping into a different era. Being connected allowed me to book last-minute tours and learn more about the cultural significance of places like Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- Osaka: The food capital of Japan, Osaka was a feast for the senses. With reliable internet, I could research the best takoyaki stands and find live entertainment in the vibrant Dotonbori district.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Traveling while managing an Airbnb wasn’t always smooth sailing. I faced a few bumps along the way, including:
- Guest Complaints: One guest reported an issue with the air conditioning. Thanks to ManagedBnbs, the problem was resolved quickly without my direct involvement.
- Time Zone Differences: Managing guest inquiries from a different time zone required me to set clear boundaries and expectations. Automated responses helped bridge the gap until I could reply personally.
These challenges taught me the importance of having a strong support system and staying flexible.
The Role of Connectivity
Throughout my travels, staying connected was more than a convenience—it was a necessity. The combination of eSIMs from Simify and SimsDirect ensured that I always had access to the internet, no matter where I was. Here’s how it made a difference:
- Booking and Scheduling: I could manage guest bookings, communicate with ManagedBnbs, and adjust my travel plans on the go.
- Cultural Immersion: From translation apps to local guides, having internet access helped me connect with Japan’s culture in deeper, more meaningful ways.
- Staying in Touch: I stayed connected with friends, family, and Airbnb guests without worrying about expensive roaming charges.
The Rewards of Remote Hosting
Looking back, managing an Airbnb while traveling was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It allowed me to:
- Fund My Adventures: The income from my Airbnb covered my travel expenses and even allowed me to splurge on experiences like a ryokan stay in Kyoto.
- Learn New Skills: Balancing hosting and travel taught me how to be resourceful, organized, and adaptable.
- Stay Rooted: Despite being far from home, staying connected to my property and guests gave me a sense of stability and purpose.
Final Thoughts
Traveling the world while managing an Airbnb might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and support, it’s entirely possible—and incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s using an eSIM for Japan from Simify or SimsDirect to stay connected, or partnering with a professional service like ManagedBnbs, the right choices can make all the difference.
For anyone considering this lifestyle, my advice is simple: plan ahead, embrace technology, and trust the process. The freedom to explore new horizons while maintaining a steady income is worth every bit of effort. Safe travels, and happy hosting!