The novelty seems scary but what’s a holiday without exploring and being adventurous?
Airbnb Trips finally debuted in Singapore after what feels like an eternity.
We’re all familiar with how Airbnb works – essentially it is a marketplace for lodging and swapping your hotel rooms for a cozy Airbnb home seems pretty doable these days. You get to live like the locals do and depending on your choice of accommodation, you could even save a few bucks while doing so.
Airbnb Natural’s Progression
Airbnb went a step further to ensure that its users will fully blend in with the locals, through the launch of Trips. Airbnb’s campaign is all about helping travellers “live there” and experience a city through the eyes of locals: a natural progression from allowing visitors to experience living in a local home. Tapping into the traveller’s desire to experience travel as though they were living like a local, Airbnb empowers hosts to create their own ‘experiences’.
Trips gives users the option to book a local experience along with a place to stay. The service is already launched in 13 cities including Tokyo, San Francisco and Paris – providing a refreshing take on the mundane walking tours you would otherwise inevitably sign up for.
For those who aren’t fans of the typical tourist attractions and want to take the path less travelled, it’ll be the perfect solution without needing extensive research. With the Trips feature, your unique experience can all be found in an app.
It also stands out from typical tours and activities, which tend to focus on exclusively tourist experiences.
The Hosts
Anyone is able to be a Trips host just by submitting their idea for a tour to Airbnb; once approved, the host can set their price and start taking reservations.
These “Experiences” Are Anything But Your Ordinary Walking Tours
Launched in 13 different cities, “experiences” can range from a celebrity house tour if you’re in Los Angeles or a Parisian Hipster Trail in Paris. We’ve uncovered a list of unique “experiences” from around the globe, even if travel is not on your list this year, there’s no harm in wanderlusting!
Tokyo – Biking Along The Hidden Trails
Your “experience” will explore the last vestiges of traditional Tokyo. Cycle and stroll through the backstreets of Setagaya, Shibuya and Suginami as you eat, explore hidden charms and meet new people. For $310, it’ll get you a welcome dinner, gourmet lunch and sake tasting on top of the bike tour. It’s a hefty price tag but one that allows you to see Tokyo like never before. For those who visit Japan often, consider this if you’re bored of the hustle and bustle Tokyo has to offer.
Paris – Explore the Street Culture
Starting with a drink on the Saint-Martin Canal, the “experience” brings you on a walk through the underground graffiti spots of the canal. Check out streetwear brands, skateparks and the area scenic views. For the adventurous, why not get tattoos when you stop by a famous tattoo studio? The day will end at the Palais de Tokyo to see the underground graffiti expo called Lasco Project. Rather than the tour of Champs Elysees or The Louvre, which are all tourist favourites, why not discover another side of Paris for just $46.
London – Burlesque Dancing
The only thing that you should be while on a holiday is to be adventurous, which is why this “experience” is perfect for those wanting to unleash your inner vixen in you. Why not unleash your inner vixen with burlesque dancing in the heart of Camden.
You’ll be treated to a full 3-day Burlesque experience, from a Nipple tassle workshop to a dance lesson itself. It also features a performance by your host at a famous cabaret to end your night. Definitely not something in our usual travel itinerary indeed 😉
Singapore – Sketch Down Memory Lane
Commemorate tradition with pencil and paper as you walk and sketch areas of Singapore with beautiful, traditional-style shophouses. What with Singapore’s dynamic culture and cuisine, the city is now an eclectic mix of civic and colonial-era buildings. Fans of architecture will love the symmetry and architectural details. If Art isn’t your greatest subject, fret not, you’ll be taught basic sketching techniques so you won’t spend the whole afternoon in distress.
Nairobi – Cave Peak Sky
Having a local bring you places definitely allows you to see things in their perspective. It’ll bring you around caves (some volcanic!) outside the city centre, national parks and also teach you outdoor photography skills. Be prepared for a hike to catch a crater view of the sunset. The city is surprisingly beautiful with flowering trees and the perfect climate – sunny but with low humidity. For the nature lovers, the “experience” screams your name.
Rome – A Tiramisu and Gelato Lesson
Rome’s known for their neighbourhood trattorias, buzzing scene and like all the other Italian cities – their gelato. With access to an artisanal pantry and a gelato store, the 2 hour class will teach you how to make a perfect water-based gelato, cookies and tiramisu. You’ll also get to feast your eyes and tastebuds on gelato flavours. The “experience” will also bring you to the renowned pastry shops in town where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour, perfect for those foodies. What better way than to learn how to perfect the act of gelato and tiramisu-making in the very place where it was originated from?
Customize Your Travel Experience
If you’re travelling anytime soon, you owe yourself to at least check out the different “experiences” that country has to offer. It’s customizable to your interests – that’s the beauty of Airbnb Trips. You’ll be glad you opted of that standard Buckingham Palace tour your hotel concierge recommended. The novelty seems scary but what’s a holiday without exploring and being adventurous?
