AirBnBs

Airbnb is an online marketplace that enables people to list, discover, and book lodging and accommodations around the world. Launched in 2008 in San Francisco by Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk, the platform operates on a peer-to-peer model, connecting hosts who offer spaces with guests seeking short-term stays.

Listings include entire homes, private rooms, and shared spaces. Guests search with filters, confirm availability, and book; hosts set prices and house rules. Payments are processed through the platform, and hosts can earn income while guests usually leave reviews after their stay. Airbnb also offers Experiences, activity bookings.

Airbnb operates in thousands of cities worldwide, with millions of listings in many countries. The platform has grown to influence tourism and local economies, but its footprint has drawn regulatory scrutiny. Cities and regions frequently require licenses, safety inspections, tax collection, and limits on short-term rentals.

Safety and trust efforts include identity verification, guest and host reviews, and 24/7 support. The platform offers a Host Guarantee up to $1,000,000 to cover property loss or damage in certain cases, but it does not replace homeowners or renter’s insurance and includes exclusions.

Criticism centers on housing affordability, displacement, and neighborhood disruption, as well as safety concerns, regulatory challenges, and competition with traditional hotels. Proponents argue it supports flexible income for hosts and broader access to unique stays. The company periodically updates policies to address these issues.