Airbnb Adds Private Chefs and Massages in Major App Revamp

Airbnb has announced a major update to its app, introducing new luxury services such as private chefs and in-home massages. This revamp marks a significant shift in Airbnb’s approach, aiming to enhance the guest experience beyond just booking accommodations. The goal is to offer users more personalised, premium services that reflect a growing demand for comfort and convenience.

With this new rollout, travellers can now book additional experiences and services directly through the Airbnb platform. Whether it's hiring a private chef to prepare a custom meal or scheduling a relaxing massage after a day of exploring, these add-on features are designed to make stays more memorable and enjoyable.

Airbnb is expanding its focus to become more than just a vacation rental platform. By offering services that rival those of high-end hotels, the company hopes to attract more discerning customers looking for luxury and ease during their travels. These features are available in select cities and are expected to expand over time.

The update also comes with a more user-friendly interface, improved search features, and curated collections to help travellers find homes that suit specific occasions—like family getaways or romantic retreats. Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky mentioned that the company wants to create a travel experience that feels “magical” from start to finish.

This strategic move positions Airbnb to better compete with luxury hotels and travel platforms that already offer in-house services. By bundling accommodation with personalised experiences, Airbnb is creating a more complete travel solution for its users.

Overall, Airbnb’s new offerings reflect a growing trend in the travel industry: customers are seeking not just a place to stay, but a full-service experience that caters to their lifestyle and preferences. This app revamp may be just the beginning of a broader evolution in how we travel.