Anti-Tourism Sentiments: Exploring Community Disruptions from Shared Accommodation

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine how residents of the Philippines’ Infina Tower are affected by shared accommodation platforms (SAPs) such as Airbnb, with particular emphasis on cultural reactions, community dynamics, and anti-tourism sentiments. Design/methodology/approach - Based on in-depth qualitative interviews conducted in Metro Manila with both long-term Infina Tower residents and Airbnb guests, this study explores their perceptions of SAPs, identifies key concerns (safety, administration, regulatory clarity), and uncovers the factors behind the low frequency of anti-tourism sentiment. Findings - This paper studies the interview data and finds a small number of anti-tourism sentiments among Filipino residents, largely attributable to the economic opportunities provided by SAPs and a cultural flexibility grounded in community resilience. Resident–guest interactions reflect a balance of cautious acceptance and negotiated coexistence, which can be interpreted through the lens of Development Theory. Research implications or Originality - In the management of shared accommodation platforms in culturally resilient environments, the study underscores the need for culturally responsive policies that harmonize tourism expansion with community well-being by addressing safety, governance, and the establishment of clear rules.