Airbnb now offers luxury services, such as massages and chefs

Los Angeles, May 14 - International online travel rental broker Airbnb is now offering its clients the option to book luxury services, such as a private chef, personal trainer or massage, as part of its revamped app. The BBC reported today.

"People choose hotels for the service and Airbnb for the space... now we're giving you the best of both worlds," Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky said in a statement.

The company had suggested a few weeks ago that the number of short-term rentals in the United States could decline due to President Donald Trump's unpredictable economic policies.

Although Airbnb has hosted more than two billion guests since its launch in 2008, it has struggled in recent years as some cities have moved to restrict short-term rentals.

Airbnb’s new services will initially be available in 260 cities and the company says they will start at under $50.

Luxury offerings, which include spa treatments, photographers and makeup artists, will also be available to people who aren’t staying on Airbnb.

The revamped app also features an updated experiences tab, which allows users to book tailor-made trips and activities. The service was first launched in 2016.

The new hotel-like services reflect the changing needs of travelers, Gary Bowerman, director of travel marketing firm Check-in Asia, told the BBC. "Travelers are now thinking much more about how to personalize their trip, not just about practicalities like how to get there and where to stay," he said.

Another feature of the new app is an "originals" tab, which offers exclusive experiences around the world. For example, the chance to play beach volleyball in Rio de Janeiro with Olympian Carol Solberg or a Sunday sit-down with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes.

WT.24