The company aims to bridge the gap between traditional hotels and its unique offerings, as it adapts to shifting consumer preferences and market challenges.
Airbnb Expands Offerings with Luxury Services on New App
Airbnb Expands Offerings with Luxury Services on New App
Airbnb unveils a revamped app allowing users to book luxury services like personal trainers and chefs, enhancing guest experiences.
Airbnb has announced significant changes to its app, introducing a suite of luxury services aimed at enhancing the user experience in conjunction with its primary short-term rental business. Users can now book high-end options such as personal trainers, massages, and chefs, allowing them to enjoy services typically associated with hotels. CEO Brian Chesky emphasized the new approach, stating, “People choose hotels for their services. People choose Airbnbs for the space... now, we're giving you the best of both worlds.”
This initiative comes in the wake of a decline in consumer sentiment due to external factors influencing bookings in the U.S. market. Since its inception in 2008, Airbnb has achieved the milestone of hosting over two billion guests but faces ongoing challenges, particularly with regulations in various cities targeting short-term rentals.
Initially, these luxury services will be available in 260 cities, with prices starting from below $50 (£37.57). This offering is not limited to guests of Airbnb properties; even non-guests will have access to book services such as spa treatments, professional photography, and makeup artistry. In addition, the upgraded app features a revamped experiences tab, allowing users to book personalized tours and activities—an extension of the services launched in 2016.
Travel expert Gary Bowerman noted the changing dynamics of tourism, highlighting that travelers increasingly prioritize customizable experiences over mere logistics of their trips. This perspective is echoed by luxury travel consultant Anastasia Oriordan, who pointed out that as consumers become more seasoned travelers, their expectations for unique experiences continuously evolve.
Furthermore, the app introduces an "originals tab," featuring exclusive experiences around the globe, including a unique opportunity to play beach volleyball with Brazilian Olympian Carol Solberg or spend a Sunday with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes. This focus on bespoke options aligns with a broader trend as tourists increasingly seek distinctive and unconventional experiences during their travels.
This initiative comes in the wake of a decline in consumer sentiment due to external factors influencing bookings in the U.S. market. Since its inception in 2008, Airbnb has achieved the milestone of hosting over two billion guests but faces ongoing challenges, particularly with regulations in various cities targeting short-term rentals.
Initially, these luxury services will be available in 260 cities, with prices starting from below $50 (£37.57). This offering is not limited to guests of Airbnb properties; even non-guests will have access to book services such as spa treatments, professional photography, and makeup artistry. In addition, the upgraded app features a revamped experiences tab, allowing users to book personalized tours and activities—an extension of the services launched in 2016.
Travel expert Gary Bowerman noted the changing dynamics of tourism, highlighting that travelers increasingly prioritize customizable experiences over mere logistics of their trips. This perspective is echoed by luxury travel consultant Anastasia Oriordan, who pointed out that as consumers become more seasoned travelers, their expectations for unique experiences continuously evolve.
Furthermore, the app introduces an "originals tab," featuring exclusive experiences around the globe, including a unique opportunity to play beach volleyball with Brazilian Olympian Carol Solberg or spend a Sunday with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes. This focus on bespoke options aligns with a broader trend as tourists increasingly seek distinctive and unconventional experiences during their travels.
