Airbnb is offering unique opportunities for customers to spend a night in a Paris museum, stay in houses modeled after famous movie settings, or sleep surrounded by eight Ferrari racing cars, as part of a new campaign to showcase the company as more than just a rental platform. These special listings, called “icons,” were announced by CEO Brian Chesky at an event in Los Angeles and are meant to provide customers with memorable experiences beyond just staying in a hotel. The concept for this publicity campaign was inspired by the success of a Barbie-themed house in Malibu, and follows a formula of linking promotions to pop culture products, celebrities, or events.
Unlike the typical properties listed on Airbnb, the company is offering the “icons” at very low prices, with winners being able to book them for free or at prices under $100. One of the unique opportunities includes an overnight stay at the Musee d’Orsay in Paris, where guests can sleep in a converted clock room designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, with the torch for the upcoming Paris Olympics also in the bedroom. Another listing offers a house in New Mexico modeled after the one from the animated film “Up,” complete with 8,000 balloons that guests can watch being lifted 50 feet off the ground by a crane.
Some of the “icons” will be one-time events, such as the sleepover at the Ferrari Museum in Italy, a living room performance by rapper Doja Cat, and an evening with comedian Kevin Hart in his members-only lounge. Additional listings include the “Up” house and a mansion in New York resembling the one from “X-Men” comics. Airbnb has not disclosed the amount spent on acquiring rights, dressing up the properties, or paying the celebrities involved, but with a profitable year behind them, the company plans to continue the “icons” campaign with more listings in development.
CEO Brian Chesky expressed excitement about the unique listings and the opportunity to showcase Airbnb’s vision and imagination through these experiences. The company sees the campaign as a way to keep Airbnb top of mind and offer customers something out of the ordinary. With a strong financial position and a focus on providing unforgettable experiences, Airbnb aims to continue offering these special opportunities to customers looking for something more than just a place to stay.
