Airbnb Launches New App, Services and Experiences Features

Airbnb is kicking off the busy summer travel period with a redesigned mobile app that makes it easier for travelers to book memorable trips.

The mobile tool is aided by newly-launched Airbnb Services and Airbnb Experiences, poised to enhance the guest experience.

"Seventeen years ago, we changed the way people travel. More than two billion guests later, Airbnb is synonymous with a place to stay," Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky said in a statement. "With the launch of services and experiences, we’re changing travel again. Now you can Airbnb more than an Airbnb."

A Brand New Airbnb App

The new Airbnb app boasts benefits for guests and hosts alike.

For the former, the new Explore Tab features "an all-new homepage to discover homes in popular destinations, experiences that fit your schedule, and services around the world," according to Airbnb, while the Trip Tab presents "an advanced travel itinerary with a schedule of your trip, details about your home, and the services and experiences you’ve booked."

Meanwhile, an improved Messages platform allows for photo and video sharing in addition to integrated payments for customized services. Finally, the app's new profile allows users to share where they've traveled and the people they've met within the app.

Enhanced Airbnb Services

The new Airbnb Services is launching with 10 categories in as many as 260 cities. Initial categories include:

• Chefs – Fully customizable in-home meals from professional chefs
• Photography – Personalized photo sessions from experienced photographers
• Massage – Restorative massages, including Swedish, deep tissue, and reflexology from certified therapists
• Spa treatments – Facials, microdermabrasion, body scrubs, and other treatments provided by licensed estheticians
• Personal training – Yoga, strength training, HIIT, and more, with personal trainers, including renowned fitness professionals and world champion athletes
• Hair – Professional haircuts, blowouts, and more from experienced stylists
• Makeup – Makeup for everyday or special occasions from professional makeup artists
• Nails – Manicures and pedicures from experienced nail specialists
• Prepared meals – Ready-to-eat meals prepared by professional chefs
• Catering – Full-service catering with custom menus, decor, and equipment, plus setup and cleanup

Reimagined Airbnb Experiences

The new Airbnb Experiences, which continue to be hosted by locals, are launching in 650 cities worldwide.

"Today’s travel activities offer no real connection to the city you’re visiting," added Chesky. "The most authentic way to explore a city is with the locals who know it best. With Airbnb Experiences, don’t just see a place—experience it."

"Vetted for quality with a focus on expertise, reputation and authenticity," according to Airbnb, these offerings include:

• Landmark, museum, and cultural experiences
• Food tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences
• Outdoors, water sports, and wildlife experiences
• Gallery tours, art workshops, and shopping experiences
• Workout, wellness, and beauty experiences

As part of the revamp, the all-new Airbnb Originals is also partnering with celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion, Sabrina Carpenter and Patrick Mahomes to highlight the app's most interesting hosts and provide users access to one-of-a-kind experiences in their destination.

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