Imagine you’re planning a trip to Japan and open a vacation rental app—only to find everything in English. Even if you understand some of it, wouldn’t you prefer browsing in Japanese? That’s the power of multi-language support.
For an Airbnb-like app, offering multiple languages isn’t just a nice feature—it’s a business necessity. Studies show that:
- 72% of consumers are more likely to buy from a site in their native language.
- Localized apps see up to 30% higher engagement.
- Airbnb itself expanded rapidly by adding languages like Chinese, Russian, and Portuguese.
Why Multi-Language Support is a Must for Your Rental App
Reach a Global Audience
- English-only apps miss 75% of the world’s consumers (who don’t speak English fluently).
- Top languages to consider: Spanish, French, Mandarin, German, Arabic.
Improve User Trust & Satisfaction
- Users are more likely to book when they understand everything clearly.
- Example: A German traveler might hesitate if prices appear as “$100” instead of “€85.”
Boost Bookings & Revenue
- Companies that localize their apps see 20-30% more conversions.
- Airbnb’s expansion into China succeeded partly because of full Mandarin support.
Stay Ahead of Competitors
- Many rental apps support only 2-3 languages. By offering 5+ languages, you instantly stand out. Try demo: https://zipprr.com/airbnb-clone/
Key Decisions Before Adding Multi-Language Support
Which Languages Should You Add First?
- Check your user data: Where are most of your visitors coming from?
- Start with 2-3 key languages (e.g., Spanish for the U.S., French for Europe).
- Expand later based on demand.
Should You Use Human or Machine Translation?
| Machine (e.g., Google Translate) | Human (Professional Translators) |
|---|---|
| Fast & cheap | More accurate |
| Good for basic text | Best for marketing & legal content |
| Can sound robotic | Culturally appropriate |
Best practice:
- Use machine translation for user reviews and messages.
- Hire professional translators for listings, buttons, and checkout pages.
How Will Users Switch Languages?
- Add a language dropdown in the app’s settings or header.
- Detect the user’s device language automatically (but let them change it).
What Else Needs Localization?
- Currency & pricing (show € for Europe, ¥ for Japan).
- Date formats (MM/DD/YYYY vs. DD/MM/YYYY).
- Images & symbols (avoid culturally insensitive icons).
How to Add Multi-Language Support
Option 1: Use a No-Code App Builder with Built-in Localization
Many no-code platforms (like Bubble, Adalo, or Glide) support multi-language apps out of the box.
Steps:
- Pick a no-code tool that supports translations (e.g., Bubble).
- Upload your translations via CSV or a translation dashboard.
- Set language rules (e.g., “Show Spanish if user’s device is set to Spanish”).
- Add a language switcher (usually a drag-and-drop feature).
Best for: Startups and small businesses that want a quick solution.
Option 2: Use a Translation Management System (TMS)
If your app is already built (e.g., on WordPress, Shopify, or Webflow), use a TMS like:
- Weglot (for websites)
- Lokalise (for mobile & web apps)
- Phrase (for enterprises)
How it works:
- Connect your app to the TMS.
- Upload your content (buttons, menus, listings).
- Translate manually or auto-translate (then refine with professionals).
- Publish changes—no coding needed!
Best for: Existing apps that need quick localization.
Option 3: Crowdsource Translations
If you have a community (e.g., hosts or frequent users), ask them to help translate!
Tools to use:
- Crowdin (collaborative translations)
- Transifex (community-powered localization)
How it works:
- Upload your app’s text to the platform.
- Invite bilingual users to contribute translations.
- Review & approve translations before publishing.
Best for: Apps with an engaged user base.
Best Practices for a Smooth Multi-Language Experience
Keep Text Short & Adaptable
- German words are 30% longer than English—design buttons and menus to expand.
- Avoid idioms (e.g., “Hit the road” doesn’t translate well).
Localize Images & Symbols
- A “thumbs-up” 👍 is positive in the U.S. but offensive in some Middle Eastern countries.
- Use neutral icons (like a heart ❤️ or star ⭐).
Test with Real Users
- Have native speakers review the app before launch.
- Check for:
- Typos or awkward phrasing
- Correct date/currency formats
- RTL (right-to-left) language support (Arabic, Hebrew)
Update Translations Regularly
- New features? Update translations at the same time.
- Let users report translation errors (add a feedback button).
Top Tools for No-Code Localization
| Tool | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Weglot | Websites & simple apps | Starts at €15/month |
| Lokalise | Mobile & web apps | Starts at $120/month |
| Crowdin | Community translations | Free for small projects |
| Bubble (i18n plugin) | No-code app builders | $20/month |
Conclusion
Adding multi-language support to your Airbnb-like app is a powerful way to attract global users, boost engagement, and increase bookings—all without needing to code. By leveraging no-code tools like Weglot or Lokalise, starting with key languages, and testing with native speakers, you can create a seamless experience for travelers worldwide. Ready to expand your app’s reach? Begin localizing today and watch your user base grow!
