The vacation rental sector is following an upward trend. After the logical stop of the pandemic, INE data indicate that the trend in Spain was positive again in 2022, when overnight stays in non-hotel accommodation in the city remained increased by 532%. A fact that can be extrapolated to other countries such as the United States of America, where with an annual growth of the vacation rental market of about 10%, the industry will be close to 1,000 million dollars in 2025.
Given these, it is usual for new companies to multiply trying to gain a foothold. One of them is Wander, although it currently only operates in the United States of America, based in 2021, the vacation rental ‘startup’ serves the affluent digital nomads, looking for a convenient remote space to work.
The company’s current portfolio consists of 14 owned and operated properties, although they anticipate opening one more in 2023. The biggest thing is that no properties are located within two hours of a major city and therefore 80% of the country. population
“Travel is on a mission to help people find their happy place. We’re building a network of smart homes around the world that guests can access at the touch of a button. Come walk with us,” they explain on their website.
Each property features iconic fixtures and appliances from partners Herman Miller, Knoll, and Design Within Reach, modern worktops with standing desks and displays, and bedding from NollaPelli. Additionally, to further enhance the guest experience, the app can remotely control the home’s temperature, lighting, fireplaces and the on-site Jacuzzi or sauna.
These benefits respond to the desire to respond to the needs of digital nomads. “Vaga was born after our founder was inspired by the frustrating experience of trying to travel (uncomfortable beds, WiFi peaks, more disappointments). I knew there was a better way. Today, Wander offers smart homes in inspiring locations across the United States, from southern Oregon to Joshua Tree, and from the Hudson Valley to Surfside Beach, with new locations launched every month.”
The first property that Wander brought to the market opened in 2021, under the name Anchor Bay House. One of its charms is that it sits on a cliff in Mendocino County. Another of Wander’s most attractive properties is Hudson Woods, which is just north of New York City. Inspired by Peter Koenig’s iconic LA Stahl House, the home features floor-to-ceiling windows and an in-ground pool overlooking the distant Catskill Mountains.
