Airbnb needs no introduction. The website has fast become more popular than hotels for those looking for a unique place to stay when travelling.
But a new feature Airbnb launched in late 2017 is perhaps even better than the homes on offer.
Airbnb Experiences is a platform where hosts can offer tours and unique excursions to see local attractions. Think market tours, cooking classes and private boat cruises but without the usual cheesiness of a professional tour.
The best part is that hosts add their own touch to the experiences, meaning you can see a city in a totally new way: have a comedian give you a tour of the Louvre, enjoy a small family-owned vineyard in Italy, or have a local show you exactly how to hike to the perfect spot on the Hollywood Hills.
Below, in no particular order, the 10 most popular Airbnb Experiences worldwide.
1. Sunset Silent Disco – San Francisco
Held at the iconic Baker Beach in San Francisco with views of the Golden Gate bridge, participants enjoy an all-levels yoga practice while listening to their favourite music through the provided headphones.
2. From Market To Meal – Tokyo
Starting at a supermarket in Tokyo, your host will talk through the foods Japanese eat every day and the common ingredients in Japanese food. You will then head to the Shibuya neighbourhood to your host’s cooking studio where you will learn to make dashi, Japanese broth, Japanese dressings, miso soup, rice, and dessert.
3. Laugh Your Way Through the Louvre – Paris
What do you get when you combine a 10-year guide of the Louvre with a stand-up comedian? An art tour like no other.
4. Hollywood Sign Walk to the Top – Los Angeles
You might think getting that perfect Insta in the Hollywood Hills is easy enough – just follow the big, white sign, right? Wrong. The usual Runyon Canyon route will still get you a nice photo, but you’ll need a local to show you the secret way to the Hollywood Sign. That’s where this Experience comes in.
5. Sail and Relax with Captain Deo – Barcelona
With the opportunity to drive a sailboat towards a picturesque fishing village, swim in the Mediterranean Sea, spot dolphins and a glass of Vermouth with tapas afterwards, it’s no wonder this Experience is rated so highly.
6. Lisbon’s Best Flavours – Lisbon
Eat like the locals do during a gourmet walking experience in Lisbon, Portugal. You’ll learn about Portuguese cuisine while wandering down winding alleys to find unique places to sample food. You’ll taste Portuguese wines, charcuterie, sardines, and typical pastries along with regional dishes from the land and sea.
7. Graffiti Art with a Local Legend – New York
Your host – the founder of one of the most recognised graffiti crews in NYC and host of the TV show, Graffiti NYC – will take you on a guided tour visiting different murals around the city. Afterwards, you’ll learn techniques and make your own piece of art.
8. Organic Wines Secrets – Florence
You’ll be introduced to a selection of five authentic and organic Tuscan wines and a savoury organic menu in a cosy and intimate family-owned winery.
9. Family Vineyard – Rome
On the terrace of Merumalia Wine Resort, you’ll be introduced to the history of the winery, surrounded by vineyards and a view of Rome. Afterwards, you’ll visit the wine cellar to learn about winemaking techniques and taste organic award-winning wines, paired with local organic cheese and salami.
10. Brixton Hidden Jazz Club – London
Experience live jazz in the beautifully intimate setting of a repurposed shipping container in Brixton with your hosts, who created the hidden club and who are prominent in the UK jazz scene.
