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Airbnb expands into 'experiences' as competition in travel sector heats up

If you've ever wanted to learn how to throw an American football with a Super Bowl winning quarterback or enjoy a day of glamour and dance with a pop superstar, Airbnb might have just the thing for you with big plans coming this year.

While these big-time celebrity experiences will be short on numbers, hard to book and big on price, they will attract attention to the new plans from Airbnb to expand out of just being a way to book a place to stay.

Having provided a bed for some 2 billion guests in the 17 years it's been operating, Airbnb wants to offer guests more than just a place to stay.

Airbnb wants you to pay dance with superstar rapper Megan Thee Stallion (Adrienne Raquel)

New Airbnb services will offer you options to add onto your stay, things like a chef, caterer or just ready-made meals.

Or perhaps it's a booking for a wedding and you want hair and makeup services, or a spa day with your friends.

Then come the experiences, things to do outside your actual Airbnb that will allow you to experience the town or area you're visiting.

While celebrity "Airbnb originals" are a headline act, in many cities these experiences will be things like museum tours, city tours, cooking classes or wellness retreats.

"Seventeen years ago, we changed the way people travel. More than two billion guests later, Airbnb is synonymous with a place to stay," Airbnb CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky told 9News.

"With the launch of services and experiences, we're changing travel again. Now you can Airbnb more than an Airbnb."

Airbnb wants you to pay to play American football with star NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes. (Brian Finke)

He's not shying away from taking on the hotel game even now as an established accommodation option.

"People choose hotels for their services. People choose Airbnbs for the space," he said.

"Now, we're giving you the best of both worlds—amazing homes with services that make them even more special."

The company want to connect tourists to the places they are visiting.

Or why not hang out with South Korean boy band Seventeen. (Daehan Chae)

"Today's travel activities offer no real connection to the city you're visiting," said Chesky.

"The most authentic way to explore a city is with the locals who know it best. With Airbnb Experiences, don't just see a place—experience it."

The services and experiences are launching today in the new Airbnb app in places all around the world, including those countries in Europe where Airbnb is under regulatory pressure that's sure to impact its business.

Trevor Long travelled to Los Angeles as a guest of Airbnb.

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