by SpinOut Fitness San Francisco

Sept 12th 2024

After 4.5 Years Airbnb Quietly Unlocks Experience Creation: A Game-Changer for Hosts & Travelers

Amidst a buzzing AI design meetup, Damien McCloud’s phone lit up with an unexpected notification from Airbnb, signaling the resurgence of a feature many thought was permanently shelved. After a hiatus stretching back to the onset of the pandemic, Airbnb has discreetly re-enabled the creation and submission of new experiences—a delightful surprise for hosts and adventurers alike.

The Long Pause and a Sudden Restart

For over four years, the pulse of innovation on Airbnb’s platform seemed to have slowed to a crawl with the pausing of experience submissions. This had been a significant blow to hosts like Damien who had thrived on crafting unique, localized adventures for travelers from around the globe. During the pandemic’s peak, Damien, along with countless others, saw his pending experience ideas frozen in time, with little hope for revival.

However, in a twist that sparked curiosity and excitement, Damien discovered that all his previously paused and pending experience ideas were suddenly reactivated. This shift indicates a significant strategic move by Airbnb to reinvigorate its offerings and deepen its engagement with both hosts and users seeking fresh, authentic local adventures.

A New Era for Hosts and Travelers

For hosts, the ability to innovate and introduce new experiences is crucial not just for business growth but also for maintaining enthusiasm and relevance in an ever-evolving market. Damien’s experience, operating his renowned Waterbike Experience on the iconic San Francisco Bay, exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between innovative hosts and Airbnb’s platform. This relationship has not only helped him establish a thriving business but has also allowed him to showcase the city’s charm to an international audience.

Reflections on Customer Support and Future Improvements

While Damien celebrates the return of experience submissions, he also contemplates the broader implications for Airbnb’s service quality. “The platform is amazing,” he remarks, “but there’s definitely room for growth in enhancing the customer and host experience.” His comment touches on a critical aspect of Airbnb’s service—support quality, which, if improved, could solidify the platform’s reputation and efficiency, especially in a post-pandemic world where travel and experiences are rapidly evolving.

The Potential of AI and Enhanced Operations

With the world adapting to new norms of remote work and digital collaboration, there’s a palpable sense that Airbnb’s operational strategies have matured. The infusion of AI and smarter working practices among Airbnb’s global remote workforce could be the catalyst needed for a new era of enhanced user interaction and satisfaction.

Looking Forward

As Damien gears up to dive back into Airbnb’s “sandbox,” his enthusiasm is a testament to the potential that this renewed opportunity holds. For hosts around the world, this is more than just a tool; it’s a gateway to innovate, inspire, and connect with a global community eager for unique, memorable experiences.

Damien’s story is just the beginning. As more hosts unleash their creativity, Airbnb could see a new wave of extraordinary, culturally-rich experiences that attract travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

10 “NEW” Airbnb Experiences in San Francisco, California

In the heart of San Francisco, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and scenic beauty, Airbnb hosts are once again crafting unique experiences designed to showcase the very best of the area. From gastronomic adventures to artistic explorations, these newly available experiences invite locals and travelers alike to dive deeper into the city’s rich offerings. Here are some standout options that have recently been added to the platform:

1. Black Food Tour - Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions and innovations of Black chefs. From $150 per person. Link

2. Memorable Mission District Food Tour - Savor the eclectic tastes of the Mission District. From $95 per person. Link

3. Japantown Eats - Explore the unique flavors and history of Japantown. From $130 per person. Link:

4. Roam Local Telegraph Hill and the Old Waterfront Tour - Uncover the secrets of Telegraph Hill and San Francisco’s historic waterfront. From $65 per person. Link

5. Meet Italian Artisans on a San Francisco Food Tour - Experience authentic Italian craftsmanship and cuisine. From $79 per person. Link

6. Sun Printing in Golden Gate Park - Create beautiful artworks with the power of the sun. From $98 per person. Link

7. Curator’s Tour of SF’s Contemporary Art Scene - Gain insights into the contemporary art landscape of San Francisco. From $75 per person. Link

8. A Journey from Seed to Cup with SF’s Premier Coffee Roaster - Trace the fascinating journey of coffee beans. From $75 per person. Link

9. Chocolate Bar Making with a California Twist - Craft your own chocolate bars with a touch of Californian flair. From $100 per person. Link

10. The Art of Floral Design - Interested in floral design and want to immerse yourself in the Bay Area’s creative culture, spend a day in my floral atelier Abby. Link

11. WaterBike the Bay, San Franciscos Famous Scenic Fitness Ride - Founded in 2017, SpinOut Fitness has hosted an innovative approach to fitness and leisure with its local-famous waterbike experiences on the San Francisco Bay. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views and refreshing workouts on the water. Thousands of Airbnb guests have explored the bay with SpinOut, making it a must-try for both locals and tourists. For more information and to book an experience, visit their profile on Airbnb: or check out their website at SpinOut Fitness