Airbnb
Airbnb is an online marketplace that allows people to list, find, and rent lodging accommodations around the world. Guests can search for lodging using filters like location, price, room type, and more. Airbnb does not own any properties, but facilitates the connection between pr
lodging
accommodations
rentals
home-sharing
travel
Airbnb: Online Marketplace
Online marketplace for listing, finding, and renting lodging accommodations around the world
What is Airbnb?
Airbnb is an online community marketplace that allows property owners and travelers to connect directly to list, find, and rent unique lodging accommodations around the world. Founded in 2008 in San Francisco, Airbnb aims to provide an alternative to hotels by allowing owners to rent out their spaces to guests seeking local and authentic travel experiences.
Airbnb does not own any real estate or conduct property exchanges. Instead, Airbnb provides the online platform that facilitates the search, discovery, and booking process. Property owners, known as hosts, create listings by describing their available accommodations, setting nightly rates and availability calendars, uploading photos, and agreeing to Airbnb's hospitality standards.
Travelers, referred to as guests by Airbnb, can search properties using filters like location, property type, price, amenities, and more. Guests can message hosts directly and read previous guest reviews to determine if the listing meets their needs. Payments are securely handled by Airbnb before arrival and after departure. Airbnb also provides property damage protection for hosts as well as traveler protections.
Today, Airbnb offers over 7 million listings across 220+ countries and regions. Guests can book unique accommodations like vacation homes, beach houses, single rooms, igloos, houseboats, mansions, treehouses, and more. Airbnb aims to help travelers experience destinations like a local.
Airbnb Features
Features
- Online marketplace for lodging
- Search and filter listings
- Booking and payment processing
- Reviews and ratings
- Host tools for listing properties
- Traveler profiles and communication
- Listing management
- Security features
- Mobile app
Pricing
- Freemium
Pros
Large selection of unique lodging options
More affordable than hotels
Pay less, live like a local experience
Flexible cancellation policies
Easier than planning a trip yourself
Meet hosts from around the world
Earn money renting out your home
Cons
Less consistent than hotels
Need to clean and prepare home for guests as a host
Possible extra fees
Scams and fake listings
Quality varies listing to listing
Less privacy than a hotel
Safety concerns as a guest
Official Links
The Best Airbnb Alternatives
Top Online Services and Hospitality & Accommodations and other similar apps like Airbnb
Here are some alternatives to Airbnb:
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