Many years back, the idea of sightseeing laid the groundwork for the majority of vacations.
However, a fresh cohort of travelers nowadays aims to explore locations through a distinct lens.
Actively participating in an experience definitely leads to more enduring recollections and tales to recount to your loved ones once you return home.
Platforms such as GetYourGuide and Viator have seen a 165 percent increase in reservations for experiences from 2021 to 2024, surpassing the growth rate of conventional tours, which stood at just 37 percent. Additionally, according to data from the international travel network Virtuoso, 77 percent of individuals cite curiosity and discovery as key motivators when they plan their travels.
The most recent company to provide immersive experiences is an accommodation rental platform.
Airbnb
Last week, the co-founder and
CEO
Brian Chesky introduced a range of distinctive experiences aimed at providing an alternative viewpoint on global destinations.
Addressing a glamorous event in Los Angeles, he stated: “We’re revolutionizing travel once more. It’s all about discovering a city through the eyes of those who know it best.”
Out of the 22,000 experiences offered across 650 cities globally, one can participate in a cooking class led by a ramen specialist in Tokyo or step into the wrestling ring with an actual Lucha Libre fighter in Mexico City. In other locations, visitors have the opportunity to study cake decorating techniques at a Los Angeles bakery favored by celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Barbra Streisand, as well as enjoy exclusive farm-to-table meals directly sourced from local farms.
Barcelona
, or play a game of volleyball with a Brazilian Olympian at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.
The prominent vacation rental company — established in 2007 by three friends who offered space for rent on an air mattress in their San Francisco flat — has effectively leveraged its influence to attract assistance from several celebrities. Among the experiences highlighted is the chance to spend time with renowned singer.
Sabrina Carpenter
.
The overarching theme for every tour is authenticity. Over fifty percent of British individuals consider this a crucial factor when reserving a tour during their vacation, according to survey results from
Airbnb
suggest.
The realm of trustworthy guidance has vastly improved since the monotonous era of ‘cut-and-paste’ walking tours derived directly from information found on Wikipedia.
Below are some of the most exclusive experiences to reserve from Airbnb’s latest lineup.
Secrets of an Icon
In the spring of 2019, people around the globe were horrified as they witnessed one of Paris’ most stunning and beloved structures being consumed by fire. Following this, several meticulous years have passed since then.
Notre Dame
Has emerged anew from the ruins, with an individual instrumental in its resurgence now at the helm of one of Airbnb’s newest and most captivating exclusive experiences. Given her expertise in design and historical conservation, one of the lead designers assures guests they will gain unparalleled insights into the intricate restoration process of the cathedral throughout this 90-minute excursion.
From £71pp
.
Alone with Michelangelo
Packed with baroque elegance and Renaissance grandeur, the
Vatican
is home to some of the world’s most significant cultural treasures. At the forefront is Michelangelo’s magnum opus: the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
Sistine Chapel
The Rome-based firm LivTours provides an exclusive opportunity to view the magnificent artwork undisturbed during a specially arranged tour conducted before the galleries are opened to the general public. However, with costs beginning at approximately £420 per person, this luxury comes at a premium price.
From £420pp
.
Time for tea
Join us for an engaging session where a past butler to the Royal Family shares insights into royal protocols over a delightful cup of afternoon tea at a prestigious venue close to Buckingham Palace. Guided by an etiquette specialist who has served under King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the late Queen Elizabeth II, participants will discover the art of making appropriate introductions, identifying the right utensils, and mastering the correct way to enjoy tea. The instruction includes fascinating tales about the royals that are not commonly known.
From £135pp
.
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