In Rovaniemi, Finland, Tiina Ylikangas has found a lucrative way to leverage her home during the festive season by renting it out to travelers on Airbnb. While it’s just February, remnants of Christmas remain in her apartment, hinting at the seasonal magic that draws tourists to the area. According to reports, the Rovaniemi Airbnb market has skyrocketed in the last three years, with available properties increasing by over sixfold, due to the city's booming tourism, particularly during the holiday months when demand is at its peak.

In December alone, statistics revealed that Rovaniemi's Airbnb hosts collectively earned over €21 million, with Ylikangas participating in this economic surge by offering her own two-room apartment for about €400 a night. This price aligns with the average cost for similar stays in the area during the last Christmas season. Ylikangas has been welcoming guests to her home for a decade, initially renting out her house close to Santa Claus Village during the holiday season, showcasing her long-standing involvement in this profitable niche of the tourism industry.

The remarkable growth of the Airbnb market in Rovaniemi not only underlines the area's attractiveness as a holiday destination but also provides residents like Ylikangas an opportunity to capitalize on the influx of tourists. As she prepares for her trip to Jamaica, her experience reflects broader trends in Finland's hospitality sector, where traditional accommodations increasingly compete with innovative rental models that appeal to modern travelers looking for unique experiences during their stay.