Book Chefs, Trainers & More: Airbnb’s New Travel Services Explained
Airbnb’s Big Upgrade: Book Chefs, Trainers, and More for Your Next Trip
Travel is about to get a whole lot easier-and tastier. Airbnb has just rolled out a major update that lets you book personal chefs, trainers, and other service pros right from their app. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Airbnb’s new features are designed to turn your trip into a personalized, full-service experience.
Let’s dive into what’s new, how it works, and why this could change the way you travel.
Airbnb’s Vision: More Than Just a Place to Stay
When Airbnb launched, it revolutionized travel by making it easy to book unique homes around the world. But CEO Brian Chesky always had a bigger dream: to create an “end-to-end travel app” that covers every part of your journey, not just where you sleep.
Over the years, Airbnb has experimented with this idea. You might remember “Airbnb Experiences”-tours, classes, and activities led by locals-or even their travel magazine and adventure packages. But the pandemic forced the company to hit pause and focus on its core home rental business.
Now, Airbnb is back on track with its full-service vision, and this latest update is their boldest move yet.
Introducing Airbnb Services: Your Personal Concierge
Imagine arriving at your Airbnb and being able to book a chef for a gourmet dinner, a masseuse for a relaxing evening, or a personal trainer to keep your fitness routine on track-all with a few taps on your phone. That’s exactly what the new “Airbnb Services” section offers.
Here’s what you can now book directly through the app:
Private chefs for in-home dining experiences
Personal trainers for custom workouts
Masseuses for on-demand relaxation
Hair and makeup artists for special occasions
Professional photographers for memorable vacation shoots
And more-10 categories of service pros in total
These professionals aren’t just for Airbnb guests, either. You can book them at your own home or another location, making Airbnb a go-to platform for local experiences, not just travel.
How does it work?
Open the Airbnb app and tap the new Services tab.
Browse categories and see available professionals in your area.
Book directly through the app-just like reserving a home.
All service providers are vetted, with proof of experience and professional licenses required.
At launch, these services are available in 100 cities worldwide, with plans to expand even further.
Why This Matters: Competing With Hotels and Travel Giants
Hotels have long attracted travelers with on-site restaurants, spas, and concierge services. By offering similar amenities, Airbnb is leveling the playing field-and even going a step further by letting you customize your stay exactly how you want.
This move also puts Airbnb in direct competition with other travel platforms like Expedia and Kayak, which bundle hotels, flights, and activities. But Airbnb’s edge is personalization: instead of a generic hotel spa, you get a private massage in your living room. Instead of a crowded restaurant, you enjoy a chef-cooked meal in your own space.
As Dave Stephenson, Airbnb’s Chief Business Officer, put it:
“One of the reasons why people don’t always want to stay with Airbnb is because we didn’t necessarily have all these other activities that you could do around the stay that maybe some more traditional hospitality has.”
Now, Airbnb is closing that gap-and possibly setting a new standard for vacation rentals.
Airbnb Experiences: Now With Exclusive ‘Originals’
Airbnb isn’t just adding services-they’re also revamping their Experiences section. Enter “Airbnb Originals”: exclusive activities you can’t book anywhere else.
What makes Airbnb Originals special?
Curated by teams working directly with local experts and creatives
Unique experiences, like a behind-the-scenes tour of Notre-Dame Cathedral with a restoration architect, or a pastry-making class at a renowned Parisian bakery
Only available on Airbnb-no cross-listing on sites like Tripadvisor or Viator
You’ll also be able to connect with other guests who book the same experience, share photos, and keep in touch through the app (with privacy controls, of course).
These Originals are rolling out in 1,000 cities worldwide, giving travelers more reasons to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
A Smarter, More Connected Travel App
Airbnb’s redesign isn’t just about new services-it’s about making your entire trip seamless. The new “Trips” tab acts as your travel planner:
Book a place to stay, and Airbnb suggests local experiences and services tailored to your destination.
Everything you book-homes, chefs, trainers, tours-shows up in a single timeline.
Get check-in/check-out instructions, reminders, and trip details all in one place.
This integrated approach means less time juggling multiple apps and more time enjoying your trip.
Real-Life Examples: How Travelers Can Benefit
Picture this:
You’re in Austin, Texas. Instead of searching for the best barbecue joint, you book a local chef to grill up a feast right at your rental.
Visiting Paris? Book a “street style” photoshoot with a professional photographer, or join a private tour of the city’s hidden gems.
Celebrating a special occasion? Bring in a hair and makeup artist to help you look your best before a night out.
Whether you want to relax, celebrate, or simply make your trip more memorable, Airbnb’s new services put everything at your fingertips.
What About Safety and Quality?
Airbnb knows trust is key. That’s why every service professional must apply, show proof of experience, and provide relevant licenses before being listed. Plus, you can read reviews from other users to help you choose the right person for your needs.
How This Impacts Hosts and Service Providers
This update isn’t just good news for travelers-it’s a win for hosts and local professionals, too.
Hosts can offer guests a richer, more personalized stay, making their listings stand out.
Service providers get a new way to reach customers, both travelers and locals, through Airbnb’s global platform.
During times of economic uncertainty, this could mean extra income for both hosts and pros looking to expand their business.
Is Now the Right Time?
The travel industry faces challenges, from economic slowdowns to changing consumer habits. Airbnb has warned that booking growth may slow and that nightly rates could flatten. But by offering more value and flexibility, Airbnb hopes to attract both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking unique, memorable experiences.
As Stephenson noted,
“We also find that more people are more discerning about where they stay … It actually can be a help to our business.”
What’s Next for Airbnb?
With these updates, Airbnb is doubling down on its mission to be your one-stop travel app. Expect more cities, more services, and even more creative experiences in the months ahead.
Whether you’re planning your next big trip or just looking for something special close to home, Airbnb’s new features promise to make every stay unforgettable.
Ready to upgrade your travel game? Explore Airbnb’s new services and discover a world of possibilities for your next adventure.