What Airbnb’s May 2025 Big Update Means for Hosts in Sydney and the Blue Mountains
How Airbnb Services, Experiences, and the New App Impact Short-Term Rental Hosts
Published: May 13, 2025 | By My Air Host
Airbnb just announced one of its biggest product releases ever—and if you’re a short-term rental host in Sydney or the Blue Mountains, this is a must-read. With a fully redesigned app, the rollout of Airbnb Services, and a revamped Airbnb Experiences platform, Airbnb is going beyond homes. It now aims to become your all-in-one travel and lifestyle booking hub.
As a professional co-hosting service, My Air Host is breaking down exactly what this means for hosts like you—and how to maximise your revenue and stay ahead in this fast-evolving industry.
Key Airbnb Updates Every Host Should Know
1. Airbnb Services: Unlocking Add-On Guest Experiences
Airbnb now allows guests to book hotel-style services directly through the platform. This includes:
- In-home chefs – Gourmet meals prepared by professional chefs
- Prepared meals – Ready-to-eat dining delivered to your Airbnb
- ️ Catering – Event-style food service with setup and cleanup
- Massage & spa treatments – In-home facials, reflexology, and more
- Personal training – Private yoga, HIIT, and strength coaching
- Hair & makeup – Styling and makeup for casual or special occasions
- Nail services – Professional manicures and pedicures on-site
- Photography – On-location photo shoots for guests
Launched in 260 cities (and expanding), these services are priced competitively—many under $50 USD—and vetted for quality. Hosts can now offer elevated, luxury-style stays in the comfort of a private home.
2. Airbnb Experiences Relaunch: Authentic Local Adventures
Airbnb Experiences are back and better than ever. Now available in 650+ cities, these local-led activities include:
- ️ Outdoor adventures and wildlife tours
- Wine tastings and cooking classes
- ️ Landmark and museum explorations
- Live performances and Airbnb Originals (think: celebrity-hosted experiences)
Guests can join these experiences whether or not they’ve booked an Airbnb stay. That means greater visibility for hosts who partner with local experience providers.
3. The All-New Airbnb App: A Super App for Travel
Airbnb has overhauled its app into a one-stop-shop for:
- Booking homes, services, and experiences
- Planning and managing itineraries
- Messaging hosts and co-travellers
- Accessing calendar and reservation tools for hosts
Features like the Explore Tab, Trips Planner, and improved calendar with hourly views mean better tools for both guests and hosts. For hosts, this means streamlined management and the potential for higher guest engagement.
Why This Matters for Airbnb Hosts in Sydney & the Blue Mountains
1. New Revenue Streams via Add-Ons
With services like chefs, wellness, and personal training, hosts can now upsell curated experiences. For example:
- Add a wine and cheese package with a local sommelier
- Offer a “Wellness Retreat” weekend with daily yoga and massage
- Partner with photographers for honeymoon and proposal packages
2. Competing With Hotels Just Got Easier
Short-term rentals have always won on space and charm. Now, with services and curated experiences, you can match and even exceed what hotels offer—especially for guests wanting luxury, privacy, or unique local immersion.
3. Hosts Can Become Service Providers Too
If you’re a local chef, yoga instructor, masseuse, or creative entrepreneur, you can now apply to host services even if you don’t rent a home. Visit airbnb.com/host/services to learn more.
4. Improved Hosting Tools for Property Managers
The new app improves day-to-day operations:
- Hourly calendar views
- Integration of bookings, services, and communication
- Social tools to boost engagement
5. Boosted Visibility for Service-Rich Listings
We expect Airbnb’s algorithm to favour listings that bundle or recommend services. Properties with curated offerings will likely see a lift in visibility and booking rates.
How My Air Host Is Preparing
At My Air Host, we’re ahead of the curve. We’re actively:
- Partnering with local service providers to enhance the guest stay
- Designing packages for Airbnb Plus and high-end listings
- Advising hosts on how to list and market new service offerings
For our clients in Sydney and the Blue Mountains, this is an exciting time to elevate your hosting game.
Ready to Adapt and Thrive?
Want help offering Airbnb Services or standing out in a more competitive market?
Call us: +61 432 516 793
Email: contact@myairhost.com.au
Visit: www.myairhost.com.au
Let’s help you offer more than just a place to stay. Let’s help you Airbnb more than an Airbnb.
