Airbnb is expanding Experiences, activity products launched as part of its Trips platform in November last year, to Melbourne, Bali and Hong Kong.
With the new portfolio additions, 120 new experiences will join the existing 600 in Asia-Pacific across cities including Bangkok, Queenstown, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, New Delhi, Osaka, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.
According to Airbnb, Asia-Pacific-booked Experiences are growing at 14 times since January 2017, with Tokyo one of the five most popular global markets by bookings.
There are now more than 3,100 Airbnb Experiences offered in over 40 cities worldwide, and upcoming additions to the Trips platform globally include Hawaii, Buenos Aires, Costa Rica and Jamaica, all launching before the year end.
Like its home sharing platform, Trips focuses on local host-led activities varying from Kimono making or exploring the local fish market in Japan, Muay Thai Boxing or cycle tours in Bangkok.
“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,” explained Parin Mehta, APAC Trips director for Airbnb.
“Experiences is also a great way to unleash economic opportunity for locals. In the city, Airbnb has emerged as a platform for people to monetise their passions and talents. Our greatest assets are time and potential and Experiences is a way to unlock that,” said Mehta.
