Airbnb has provided a glimpse into the future of its revamped Experiences through a sponsored post in Arival’s newsletter.
According to this initial report on the renewed version of Airbnb Experiences, which is expected to be officially announced in May, the key updates will include:
- Experiences will now feature guided tours of popular landmarks (examples include the Vatican and the Louvre).
- Professional tour guides and specialized tour operators will be involved. In contrast to its previous model, which emphasized unique, specialized experiences often hosted by locals, Airbnb will now incorporate expert-led tours.
- Creating an Experience listing will be easier.
- A “competitive committee structure” will be introduced for guides and managers. Managers will also have the option to add “co-hosts” to tour programs.
- More technological tools will be available to integrate offerings within Airbnb Experiences.
- A broader range of offerings will be introduced, with Airbnb “encouraging landmark attractions and licensed tour guides” to participate.
However, the inclusion of famous landmarks in Airbnb’s Experiences does not mean the company is abandoning its focus on specialized and authentic tours.
Competing with leading tour platforms
By incorporating popular sightseeing tours and major tourist attractions, Airbnb Experiences will enter direct competition with industry leaders such as Tripadvisor’s Viator and GetYourGuide.
Airbnb declined to provide further details on the information included in the post. The leading tour platforms also refrained from commenting.
Airbnb originally launched Experiences in 2016 but suspended them during the pandemic. The service was relaunched in 2022, yet applications for new Experiences were halted in early 2023.
CEO Brian Chesky has repeatedly stated that Experiences were an integral part of his vision for Airbnb. However, this vision was disrupted by the pandemic, which stalled its development.
In recent public comments, Airbnb has indicated that its rebranded Experiences will be marketed to both locals and travelers and will incorporate short-form video content more extensively than before.
