Often, one of the most popular items at silent auctions is an experience you can’t get anywhere else. Airbnb is bringing what was once exclusive to the masses.
The company now allows guests to book additional experiences and services beyond lodging. In addition to tours, workshops, and outdoor adventures, guests can book chefs, massages, and trainers to provide services to their Airbnb. But the real place that the company has leveraged its power is in providing “Originals” options to guests.
People are now able to book experiences such as:
- Exploring Notre Dame with its restoration architect
- Having afternoon tea with the Royal Butler
- Wheelchair curling with an Olympian
- Carving marble with a third-generation sculptor
- Learning mixology in a Spanish speakeasy
- Building strength with a former NFL player
- Exploring a museum with its curator
Airbnb realized it could provide more than just a place to stay, and instead of offering car rentals or restaurant reservations like others do, it curated a collection of experiences that set it apart from traditional hotel bookings. It’s rare to create growth in a logical, yet unclaimed category, but Airbnb seems to have pulled that off. What’s not being offered is often far better than more of the same.
