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When did Airbnb launch experiences?Īirbnb launched experiences in 2016 in an effort to expand beyond the short-term rental business. The platform charges a 20% commission on every activity booking. Meanwhile, Airbnb profits off commission fees.
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In return, hosts are given a platform to earn money while sharing their hobbies and skills. This allows guests to experience a destination from the perspective of someone who lives there. The key to Airbnb experiences is that they’re always led by locals. As of 2020, there were more than 40,000 experiences in more than 1,000 cities. The program first launched with 500 experiences but quickly grew to 30,000 activities around the world by 2019. Hosts are often tour guides, chefs, or destination experts that introduce travelers to a city’s culture and cuisine, such as through a walking tour or cooking class.
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Anyone can host an experience, as long as they have something unique to share with their guests. An Airbnb experience is an in-person activity hosted by a local expert.
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