Airbnb, which until recently functioned as a platform for booking short-term rentals, is evolving. In recent months, the company has been expanding into new areas, and it is now launching a service many of us would appreciate after a tiring flight: Booking a private airport transfer directly through the app.
The new service is already operating in 125 cities around the world, including popular destinations such as Bali, Paris, and Mexico City. Instead of trying to figure out which service is used in each country (Bolt, Uber, Yandex), or attempting to negotiate with taxi drivers in a language you don’t know, you simply book in advance through Airbnb - and the driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name at the arrivals terminal.
Have a few hours before check-in? You can also request a short stop for a tour along the way. And in the opposite direction, you can book a ride back to the airport or train station directly from your rented accommodation.
The service was developed in collaboration with Welcome Pickups and is currently in a pilot program that has received an exceptionally high rating - 4.96 out of 5. “Arriving at a new destination should feel exciting, not stressful,” said Alex Trimis, CEO of Welcome Pickups.
At the moment, the service is available only for transfers between arrival points and accommodation, and not for getting around within the city or full-day rentals. But this is only the beginning - Airbnb already offers through its app services such as photography, massages, private chefs, personal trainers, and even makeup and grooming.
“Seventeen years ago we changed the way people vacation,” said Brian Chesky, founder and CEO of Airbnb. “Now we’re giving you the best of both worlds - amazing homes with services that make them even more special.”