If you’re familiar with Airbnb, you probably know it can help you snag some great deals for your travels. We’ve often used it for budget-friendly places to stay, and unlike regular hotels, staying at an Airbnb offers unique experiences that can be quite enjoyable.
In addition to their popular lodging options, Airbnb also provides “Airbnb Experiences,” something a friend introduced us to, and we’ve been hooked ever since. There’s a bit of a difference between Airbnb’s traditional services and their Experiences, so let’s break it down.
Airbnb has been helping travelers for quite a while now and is well-known. It’s great for economical trips because you have various accommodation types to choose from. Hosts can list different kinds of spaces, such as:
– A single room or an entire floor of their house
– A cottage adjacent to their main house
– A vacation home (though short-term rentals in most states and counties are technically illegal and could lead to the listing being removed from the platform)
These places often come with several amenities like linens, toiletries, home appliances, and sometimes even breakfast, which can make the trip more convenient and help you pack lighter.
On the flip side, Airbnb Experiences is a service focused on providing activities rather than lodging. The experiences available can vary widely depending on where you are. While this service hasn’t reached some smaller areas yet, it’s doing well in most large cities. Some types of experiences you might find include:
– Photo tours
– Cooking classes
– Vineyard or brewery tours
– Art classes
– Walking or adventure tours
The key thing with Airbnb Experiences is that hosts need to verify their expertise in the field they want to offer. This could be through a relevant degree, professional certificate, or relevant work experience.
This platform brings an exciting twist to the usual Airbnb fare, drawing in people who crave unique experiences. Additionally, these services can be a source of extra income if you have the time and an entrepreneurial spirit.
As a blended family, we thought about using Airbnb as a potential income source when our kids were away. Unfortunately, it didn’t pan out because we lacked a separate guest space, and providing breakfast for each guest wasn’t profitable enough.
We also tried hosting culinary and cocktail pairing classes on Airbnb Experiences. My spouse is a chef, and I have experience in the bakery business. Despite our excitement, the overhead costs and Airbnb’s 20% commission made it less profitable than we had hoped.
Still, depending on your situation and the market, Airbnb and its services could be effective side businesses.
In conclusion, Airbnb is a valuable platform for both finding travel accommodations and engaging in unique activities. Whether you’re looking to earn some extra money or seeking a special travel experience, Airbnb might have something for you.
I see it as a win-win! How about you? Have you ever been a guest or host on Airbnb? I’d love to hear your thoughts.