Airbnb unveils new features in bid to woo high-end travellers
Airbnb has announced new features, including independently verified listings and luxury custom trips, in an attempt to attract luxury travellers.
Airbnb Plus will see homes inspected and verified in person against a 100-plus point checklist covering cleanliness, comfort and design. The feature, which Airbnb has said is "intended for guests looking for beautiful homes, exceptional hosts and added peace of mind", has been launched with 2,000 hosts in 13 cities.
Beyond Airbnb is also looking to attract the premium market by offering custom-designed trips and some of the finest hosts on the platform. The move follows the company's acquisition of Luxury Retreats and will launch in spring.
Airbnb Collections is also planned to increase the usability of the platform, with Airbnb for Family and Airbnb for Work launching yesterday. Collections for social stays, weddings, honeymoons, group getaways and dinner parties will launch later this year.
Airbnb co-founder, chief executive and head of community Brian Chesky said: "Ten years ago we never dreamed of what Airbnb could become. In fact, people thought the idea that strangers would stay in each other's homes was crazy.
"Today, millions of people every night do just that. But we want to go further by supporting and expanding our community so that in 10 years' time, more than one billion people a year will experience the benefits of magical travel on Airbnb."
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