Airbnb is changing the way we travel! Here's how
A decade after Airbnb co-founders Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia inflated three airbeds for guests in their San Francisco apartment, the company that completely overhauled travel has shaken things up again in honor of its 10th anniversary.
For the travelers who aren't up for taking chances, there's the launch of Airbnb Plus. This is a group of homes which have been verified in person against an extensive hundred point checklist (that includes how comfy the mattress is). And there are over 300 Plus listings to choose from.
Then a new way to search stays have been added to the app as well. Until recently consumers had to choose between Entire Home, Private Room, and Shared Space when looking for a listing. And, let's face it, it can sometimes be hard to find what you want. Especially if what you want is a log cabin or a faraway treehouse. Now, new filter options have been included, like: Vacation Home, Unique, B&B, and Boutique. The Unique category houses some of the most out-there listings, like tree houses, bubble domes, airstreams, and yurts.
There's also a new service called Beyond Airbnb, which is set to launch in the spring. This offering will include some of the most spectacular homes in the world, from 16th Century Tuscan mansions to French Chateaus to beachside villas in Costa Rica. These bookings will offer custom-designed trips for those with a little more cash to spend.
Finally, those who already rent out their place will already be aware of the Superhost scheme but now, as a guest you can work up to becoming a Superguest, which awards those who behave well (ahem, we're looking at you recent party havers) the chance to get benefits like free airport pickups, treats and discounts.
Could your travel experience get any better? Tell us in the comments below.