Airbnb bets on human connection with new Experiences feature

In a world that’s never been more connected, it’s strange how lonely life can feel, even when travelling. 

We scroll through curated feeds, share sunsets in real time, and message from mountaintops. Yet the genuine connections that make travel meaningful often slip away once we’re home.

It’s this tension between connection and isolation that Airbnb has long wanted to solve: not just where you stay, but who you meet along the way.

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky spoke candidly at the Skift Global Forum in New York City about how AI is reshaping the travel landscape, suggesting that the tools already at hand are powerful enough to transform how people discover, book and experience the world.

The challenge, according to Chesky, isn’t the technology itself, but how companies choose to use it to make travel feel more human. And that's where the travel heavyweight's new social features for Airbnb Experiences come in.

They are designed to help guests connect before, during, and after their adventures.

Here’s what’s new:

• Who’s going - Before booking, you’ll now see who else has signed up for an experience and where they’re from. (So yes, you can finally find out if you’ll be sharing that Cape Peninsula hike with travellers from Seoul or Seattle.)
• Direct messaging - Forget swapping numbers at the last minute. You can now message fellow guests directly through the app to plan your next adventure together.
• Connections in your profile - A new section keeps track of everyone you’ve met through Airbnb Experiences, so staying in touch is effortless.

Of course, Airbnb states, "Only people who choose to share their profile with other guests will show up before you book." This means you’re always in control of what to share and who can contact you, keeping things as private (or as social) as you like.

As the Northern Hemisphere heads into winter, Airbnb has also announced a few smart upgrades for the upcoming travel period to make search and discovery more accessible:  

• More intelligent search and maps - Discover hidden gems and explore nearby attractions, restaurants and landmarks right from the map view.
• Reserve Now, Pay Later – Book your next Airbnb getaway with upfront payments. 
• Expanded AI-powered support – Multilingual support (English, Spanish, French) and smarter, faster responses that can even help you cancel or change bookings directly in chat. 

And for hosts?  

Expect more control and insights with new tools like dynamic cancellation policies, improved pricing tips, and a refreshed earnings dashboard.

It's essential to note that several features are being trialled in the U.S. and select markets only, and will be fully rolled out by 2026. So, while Airbnb says your next trip will be more personal, flexible, and connected,  let's hope it translates beyond just more message pings and isn't confined to only algorithmic friendships.

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