MAINE, USA — Maine is known as Vacationland for a reason. The gorgeous beaches, tall mountains, and delicious food bring in guests from across the world, but now many are coming for the lack of attractions at all.
"Where they're looking to go this summer are those off-the-beaten-path locations," said Airbnb spokesperson Liz DeBold Fusco.
According to data from Airbnb, in the last month alone, searches for stays in rural Maine have increased by roughly 63 percent.
"We're already seeing right here in Vacationland that people are looking to get outdoors, and experience everything that rural and remote Maine has to offer," DeBold Fusco said.
Jackie Stratton first started listing a space on her property, known as the Chicken Barn Cabin in Montville, Maine on Airbnb in July 2020.
"I went live with my listing and we just immediately got bookings," Stratton said.
Stratton said that she's been very busy since she started offering the listing. She adds that many guests are even from Maine, and are looking for a rural escape.
"Something a lot of people ask is, 'is there any WiFi', and there isn't. And that's actually I think is a big treat for people because it allows them a place to unplug," Stratton said.
CEO of the Maine Tourism Association Tony Cameron tells NEWS CENTER Maine that he's seeing the trend towards rural tourism, too.
"People are finding some of those hidden gems that Maine has always had, that now people are a little more in tune to," Cameron said.
Cameron notes that areas like the Moosehead Lake Region, the Forks, Rangeley, Western Maine, and Aroostook Country are all some of the places attracting visitors seeking a quiet getaway.
"People are looking for different, unique, authentic experiences," Cameron said.
Cameron adds that rural getaways also create a great option to avoid crowds for a safer vacation amid COVID-19.
"That's where people can feel comfortable, in addition to the fact that people are looking for those types of experiences anyways. So it's kind of a win-win for the rural destinations," Cameron said.