• Airbnb launches new service feature allowing users to book personal chefs and trainers.
• Service offerings are available in 260 cities starting from below $50.
• The revamped app aims to blend hotel-like amenities with Airbnb’s unique rentals.
• Services can be booked not just while traveling, but also for in-home use.
• Airbnb emphasizes customization to meet changing traveler preferences.

In a significant move, Airbnb has introduced a new feature allowing users to hire on-site professionals such as private chefs, personal trainers, and massage therapists. This initiative marks a shift from traditional short-term rentals, aiming to blend the services associated with hotels with the unique offerings of Airbnb homes. Chief executive Brian Chesky highlighted the appeal of these services, stating, "Hotels do have services that we don’t have... Who doesn’t want a quesadilla in bed?" The new offerings are available in 260 cities, starting from prices below $50, according to Business Insider and BBC.

The redesigned Airbnb app not only facilitates the booking of these services but also enhances the user experience by integrating original experiences and various activities. Travelers now have the option to explore local insights and engage in bespoke activities, from food tours to wildlife adventures. This shift reflects a broader trend where tourists are increasingly seeking to customize their travel experiences beyond basic accommodation, as noted by luxury travel consultant Anastasia Oriordan and emphasized by Airbnb’s commitment to innovate in travel, according to South China Morning Post and BBC.

Chesky emphasized that the company's evolution aims to provide "the best of both worlds," allowing Airbnb to compete directly with hotels while retaining its distinctive identity. The addition of services could influence travelers’ choices, giving them comprehensive options that combine unique accommodations with luxury services previously limited to hotel environments. This innovation is part of Airbnb's ongoing effort to reshape how people book travel, adapting to changing consumer expectations and enhancing the overall travel experience, as discussed by Business Insider and South China Morning Post.