Airbnb Enhances User Experience with New Luxury Services on Redesigned App

Airbnb is revamping its app to include luxury services such as personal trainers and spa treatments, catering to modern travelers' desires for customized experiences and appealing to the hotel industry.

Airbnb is taking a significant step to elevate its user experience by introducing luxury services through its newly redesigned app. According to CEO Brian Chesky, the platform will now allow users to book a range of high-end amenities, including private chefs, massages, and personal trainers. This evolution comes as the company aims to broaden its scope beyond short-term rental services, effectively merging the hospitality charm of hotels with the unique space of Airbnb accommodations.

Chesky emphasized the goal of this initiative, stating that "people choose hotels for their services. People choose Airbnbs for the space... now, we're giving you the best of both worlds." This announcement arrives just weeks after indications surfaced that bookings could be impacted in the US due to President Trump's erratic trade policies, which are creating uncertainty in consumer behavior.

With over two billion guests hosted since its 2008 inception, Airbnb has faced hurdles as various cities impose restrictions on short-term rentals. The new curated services will be available in 260 cities and start at prices below $50, providing an accessible option for both Airbnb guests and those who are not booked in accommodations.

The updated app also features a redefined experiences tab, allowing travelers to book bespoke tours and activities—a service that originally launched in 2016. Travel marketing expert Gary Bowerman notes that the initiative reflects a shift in how travelers prioritize customizing their trips beyond logistics.

In addition to these features, the app will also introduce an "originals" tab, showcasing exclusive experiences around the world, such as beach volleyball with Olympic champion Carol Solberg in Rio or a Sunday with NFL star Patrick Mahomes. This emphasis on personalized experiences illustrates a broader trend among travelers who are increasingly seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path adventures, as highlighted by luxury travel consultant Anastasia Oriordan. "With so many people having traveled extensively, the benchmark for unique experiences is continuously evolving," Oriordan remarked.