Airbnb brings 'Experiences' to three new APAC markets

Airbnb has expanded its trips “Experiences” offering to three new markets in Asia Pacific – Bali, Hong Kong and Melbourne. This provides curated activities guided by local insiders to its users. According to a press statement, the move looks to capitalise on the growing shared economy and shift towards more “authentic travel experiences”.The new market launches will add more than 120 new Experiences to its existing APAC portfolio. Currently, the offering is available in markets such as Singapore, Bangkok, Queenstown, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, New Delhi, Osaka, Shanghai, Sydney and Tokyo.Airbnb launched its Experiences offering in November last year, and now has 3,100 Airbnb Experiences offered in over 40 cities worldwide, 600 of which are in APAC. According to the bookings platform, its Experiences hosts have earned more than US$6 million to date globally, and has seen growth in APAC booked Experiences of around 14 times since January 2017.The offering was part of Airbnb’s expansion from accommodation hosting on the Airbnb  to an end-to-end travel platform.“Travellers are seeking alternative adventures, whether they are travelling alone or with groups of friends or family. As well as seeking unique accommodation options, there is the desire among travellers to destinations such as Bali and Melbourne to enjoy their destination through the eyes of a local,” Parin Mehta, APAC Trips Director for Airbnb, explained.Most recently, Airbnb unveiled plans to invest US$2 million through 2020 to support and promote innovative and inclusive tourism projects throughout Asia Pacific. According to Nathan Blecharczyk, Airbnb co-founder, CSO and chairman of China, the funds will be made available to organisations including destination marketing organisations, non-profit agencies, NGOs and community social groups, that require financial support for innovative tourism projects.Read also: Airbnb to help lure tourists for PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games Airbnb vs the hotel industry: Can the disrupted become the disrupter? Airbnb names global creative partner, outlines Asia plans