Courtesy of Airbnb Plus
Homes will have to meet a 100-point list to qualify for the new Airbnb Plus premium service for picky guests.
Airbnb’s 640,000 hosts will need to invest in fluffy pillows, fast wi-fi and bottled water, among other amenities, to meet the accommodation network’s strict new rules for its Airbnb Plus service. Those hoping to become part of the select few will also need at least a 4.8 rating, and a home with some serious design credentials.
The rental service’s new elite version – first gossiped about in June last year – is intended to attract the more demanding guests, as well as the Airbnb naysayers.
‘We have evolved, but we think we can go much further and offer something for everyone,’ Brian Chesky, the company’s chief executive, told The New York Times. ‘Some travelers want predictability and certain comforts, and Airbnb Plus will give them these.’
The service is launching with 2,000 stays in 13 cities around the world, but plans to expand to more than 75,000 – which will still be only a fraction of the over 4 million homes on the main Airbnb listings. The premium stays will be marked out with a Plus badge, and upgraded profile pages.
The company is also planning to unveil Beyond by Airbnb later this year, which will offer super high-end stays for travellers in search of a little more luxury. It is also adding virtual reality to its platform, allowing guests to ‘step inside’ potential rentals before they book them.
