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Cyprus Sees Decline in Online Learning Participation, Eurostat Report Shows

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 30, 2025

According to the latest Eurostat data, Cyprus has experienced a notable decline in online learning participation, with the percentage of internet users engaging in online courses or using online learning tools falling in 2024. The drop comes at a time when the EU average saw an increase in online learning engagement.

In 2024, only 11% of internet users in Cyprus reported having participated in an online course or used online learning resources in the past three months. This marked a 5 percentage point decline compared to 2023, when 16% of users engaged with such educational tools. As a result, Cyprus ranked as the second-lowest in the EU for online learning participation, ahead of Romania, which recorded just 10%.

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Across the EU, the trend was more positive, with 33% of internet users engaging in online learning activities, up from 30% in 2023. Among EU member states, the highest participation rates were seen in Ireland (61%), the Netherlands (59%), and Finland (53%).

When looking at specific types of online learning, 18% of EU internet users took an online course in 2024, with the highest levels of participation seen in Ireland (36%), Finland (32%), and Spain (32%). Additionally, 29% of users accessed online learning materials, particularly in the Netherlands (53%), Ireland (52%), and Finland (46%).

In Cyprus, about 10% of internet users took an online course, and another 10% used online learning materials, reflecting the broader trend of relatively low engagement compared to other EU nations.

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Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.