For people who travel a lot and stay in each place for less than three months at a time, it makes sense. I have had 1-2 airbnbs booked at a time almost constantly for the past two years, and know lots of people who work remote and do the same thing.

Airbnb is pretty much the only option for the gap between “stay a few nights” where a hotel makes sense and “stay for 4+ months” where renting a place makes sense.

"Lots" is already ambiguous, so I'm not sure what you're expecting. I've worked remotely for 8 years and spend half my time in Airbnbs. If you go to meet ups or nightlife with other expats, you'll find many others doing the same.