In one of its most significant expansions since its founding in 2007, Airbnb unveiled three new innovations that are transforming the travel hospitality model: Airbnb Services, Airbnb Experiences and a completely revamped app that unifies everything – from accommodation to services to experiences – in one place.
As Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky, “With the new Services and Experiences, we’re changing the way people travel again. Now you can Airbnb a lot more than just a house.”
Here, in detail, is the new face of Airbnb:
Airbnb Services: the luxury of hotels, now in Airbnb homes
In order to meet the needs of travellers who appreciate the comfort and amenities of a hotel, Airbnb is launching Airbnb Services: a range of high-quality professional services offered in-house. Already available in 260 cities, the services are divided into 10 main categories, including:
- Private chefs and prepared meals
- Professional photography and stylistic services
- Massage and spa treatments by licensed specialists
- Personal training, yoga and beauty services (hair, make-up, nails)
- Comprehensive catering services
The selection of professionals is based on strict criteria (average experience of 10 years, confirmation of identity, licenses and certifications), and many of the partners come from leading areas such as Michelin-starred restaurants or the world of fashion and photography.
Costs start under $50 and cover a wide range of options – from budget solutions to personalized luxury experiences.
Airbnb Experiences: experience the destination like a local
The new generation of Airbnb Experiences offers unique activities organised by local experts in over 650 cities. Guests can experience authentic experiences such as:
- Tours of cultural and historical sites (e.g. restoration of Notre Dame de Paris with a guide from the architectural team)
- Cooking workshops and dinners with top chefs
- Outdoor activities such as horseback riding on Inca archaeological trails
- Educational art and fashion workshops with prominent professionals
- Training sessions with athletes and celebrities
A special innovation is Airbnb Originals – high-level experiences with celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion, Sabrina Carpenter and Patrick Mahomes.
New Airbnb app: a single platform for travel, services and experiences
Airbnb also unveiled a completely revamped app, designed from the ground up to offer the user a complete “digital travel companion”. With the new app:
- You can book homes, services and experiences from one place.
- You get personalised recommendations based on location and travel profile.
- It has a new itinerary tab, integrated payments, and chats with photo and video sharing.
- It allows hosts to manage reservations, calendars and offers more easily.
The technology upgrade allows Airbnb to evolve even further, adding more categories of hosting, services and experiences in the future.
In short, with these new additions, Airbnb is becoming a holistic travel experience platform, redefining the way we plan and experience our travel.
