Airbnb Experiences: New Details Point to Direct Competition with Viator and GetYourGuide
Photo Credit: The exit staircase at the Vatican Museum in Rome, Italy. Skift
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Experiences has traditionally been a low-margin business so Airbnb was never going to make a go of it tethered to a niche offering. The challenge in going mainstream is to maintain some differentiation from rivals.
Airbnb laid out elements of its plan for offering experiences in a sponsored post Tuesday, revealing a broad vision that includes mainstream landmarks and attractions.
Airbnb has been focusing on its core homes business since mid-2023, and has been readying a relaunch of Airbnb Experiences.
As part of the plan, it is also encouraging submissions from licensed tour guides and business operators.
Leaning into popular attractions — think of the Vatican and the Louvre — and professional tour guides and businesses is a departure from Airbnb's initial vision for experiences. Airbnb previously emphasized niche, one-of-a-kind tours and activities, often operated by hosts, an
