Airbnb wants to be much more than just a homey alternative to hotels.
The short-term rental platform has launched Airbnb Adventures, a revamp of Airbnb Experiences, which will see hosts take responsibility for much more than just a cosy nest to come home to.
But that’s not all.
As part of the launch of Airbnb Adventures, Airbnb has also organised a 80-day trip around the globe – inspired by Jules Verne’s famous novel Around the World in 80 Days – that starts and ends in London, spanning six continents and 18 countries.
You’ll wander along the Silk Road, make your way across Arabian deserts, island-hop through the Galapagos, jump on a hot air balloon, and boat through the fjords of Chilean Patagonia.
“All you have to do is make sure you have enough empty pages in your passport, buy a round trip ticket to and from London, and get on that first flight,” Airbnb said.
“When you land, the first chapter of your around the world adventure begins.”
The massive world trip kicks off on September 1 and ends November 19, with booking available on Airbnb’s website from June 20, though spaces are only limited to eight lucky guests aged 21 or older.
The 12-week itinerary
The first week of the trip will kick off in London but see you travel through Bucharest, Romania and Uzbekistan.
In the second week you’ll explore Cairo, Egypt, and then enjoy a three-day cruise along the Nile.
Week three promises a number of desert destinations in Jordan and Ethiopia that will see you floating in the Dead Sea’s mineral waters.
In week four, you’ll visit places of worship and valuable archaeological site in Ethiopia and Kenya, and enjoy a four-day safari where yo’ull wake up to big cats, elephants, and rare species – and then cruise the air in a hot air balloon over the plains.
In week five, you’ll head to Kathmandu, Nepal and visit Hindu and Buddhist temples and famed bazaars where you’ll surround yourself with local spices, produce and goods.
Week six sees you traversing the capital of Bhutan and the Eastern Himalayas, followed by bustling Bangkok and then explore the villages of Guizhou province among misty mountains and bamboo groves before heading to Beijing.
Week seven will see you Down Under, starting from Sydney, to Adelaide, then to Hawker where you’ll drive to Wilpena Pound and wander the outback for three days.
In week eight, you’ll find yourself to New Zealand where you’ll say ‘kia ora’ to the stunning landscapes of the island country, kicking off with a white wine tasting followed by a helicopter ride and a boat ride. Next stop is Osaka, Japan, where it’ll be three days of hiking Kumano Kodo.
