Airbnb Launches Online Experiences So You Can Learn New Skills and Meet Locals From Around the Globe

Airbnb Experiences gives travelers the opportunity to book activities hosted by locals around the globe, whether that’s cooking pasta with a talented nonna in Rome or taking a “Harry Potter” walking tour of London by none other than a Londoner. And now, the company is making it easier than ever to “travel from home” with the launch of their new Online Experiences. 

As of today, Airbnb Online Experiences has virtual activities available to anyone with working WiFi. Not only is it helping people with serious wanderlust get their fix of travel and exploration, but it also brings business to hosts during this difficult time in the travel industry.

“Human connection is at the core of what we do,” says Catherine Powell, Head of Airbnb Experiences. “With so many people needing to stay indoors to protect their health, we want to provide an opportunity for our hosts to connect with our global community of guests in the only way possible right now, online.” 

Whether it’s learning a new skill or taking an immersive tour, you can choose from 50 virtual Airbnb Experiences that span over 30 countries around the globe. Get a coffee fortune reading from an expert in NYC, take a cooking class with a family in Marrakech, or go the ultimate wellness route and meditate with a Japanese Buddhist Monk in Osaka. 

All Online Experiences will be hosted on Zoom, and the cost to participate ranges from $1 to $40. While the company’s in-person Experiences are temporarily suspended through the end of April, these online options let people learn new skills, meet locals, and help you get your travel fix for the time being.

These experiences might also serve as inspiration for places that you want to visit in the near future, too. But for now, “traveling” is as easy as the click of a button.