Airbnb makes a play at the luxury segment

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Airbnb has entered the luxury accommodation realm, launching its newest category, Airbnb Luxe, with over 2,000 “handpicked” homes around the globe. The new division comes as Airbnb reports a more than 60% increase in the number of listings worth at least $1,000 per night in 2018. Locations include award-winning homes in New Zealand and South Africa, castles in France and historic villas in Tuscany. Options are available in destinations such as Bali, Los Angeles, Hawaii, Koh Samui, Marrakesh, Cape Town and the Cayman Islands. Wallis Street, Sydney In Australia, there are currently 24 options in Sydney, including the five-bedroom, $5,138 per night The Edge cliffside mansion near Coogee Beach or the $5,238 per night Sea Breeze in Vaucluse. Other options are available in Byron Bay and Queensland, with Melbourne options flagged to be added later in the year. Sea Breeze, Vaucluse, Australia Airbnb Luxe “provides access to unique and spectacular properties,” the company boasts, offering “dedicated trip designers” to tailor experiences and services during a guests’ stay. Each property has needed to pass 300+ criteria to meet standards in design and function, such as premium materials, rare features, chef-grade appliances and more. The division builds on Airbnb’s purchase of Luxury Retreats in 2017. Villa Belong Dua, Bali After booking a property, the “trip designer” assists with an effortless check-in, coordinating local experiences and activities, and arranging services such as childcare to private chefs to in-house massage therapists. “Today’s luxury traveller is craving more than just high-end accommodations; they seek transformation and experiences that leave them feeling more connected to each other and to their destination,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb Co-Founder, CEO and Head of Community. Nukutepipi, French Polynesia “With Airbnb Luxe we are applying the same approach we’ve used since we launched Airbnb more than 11 years ago – creating local, authentic and magical travel moments now in amazing places to stay – to reimagine the way people think and experience luxury travel.” In February 2018, the company introduced Airbnb Plus, which is now available in over 300 markets. Airbnb Luxe sits above Airbnb Plus. SkyLoft, Sydney At this stage, Airbnb Luxe is only available to book online at airbnb.com/luxe Lead image: The Edge, near Coogee Beach, Sydney

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