Following the successful launch of Online Experiences globally, Airbnb welcomes a collaboration with local Malaysian artist and creative entrepreneur, Marini Ramlan (also known as Nini Marini), to launch the first-ever Airbnb Online Experience based out of Malaysia.
A popular figure in Malaysia’s arts scene, Nini Marini has created artworks in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, textiles, metals and even artificial intelligence. Her abstract yet decorative style is bold, accessible and imaginative, and has led to her working with Malaysian designers and global brands alike. Nini is now sharing her vibrant aesthetic through her Online Experience, which will take place twice a week starting 10th June, where she will be teaching guests how to weave using t-shirts!
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to connect with a global community and celebrate my love for the arts by hosting the first Malaysia-based Online Experience,” said Nini. “T-shirt weaving is a fun, simple and creative activity that anyone can take part in, and with all of us celebrating Raya differently this year I truly believe this is a great way for families and friends to spend time together virtually. I’m also hopeful that this will inspire more Malaysians to start hosting their own Online Experiences and sharing their own passions with the rest of the world.”
“We are thrilled to open up more ways for people to travel the world as they shelter in place. While this year’s holidays may look very different, we hope that Airbnb Online Experiences will help bring families virtually together even if they’re physically far apart,” said Parin Mehta, Director (Asia-Pacific), Airbnb Experiences. “Human connection is at the core of Airbnb Experiences, and the launch of Online Experiences has helped provide an opportunity for our hosts to connect with our global community of guests in the only way possible right now, online.”
Online Experiences on the Rise
Following its global launch, Online Experiences have swiftly evolved to be one of guests’ favorite ways to be transported to new destinations while at home, with 20,000 seats booked in the first two weeks. Across Asia-Pacific, Online Experience bookings have increased 250% from week of launch to date .
According to a recently commissioned Airbnb online survey, guests booked Online Experiences to be entertained (63%), to learn something new (60%), and to experience other cultures and lifestyles (56%) . While Food and Drink is the most popular category globally and across the region, accounting for nearly 40% of seats booked , in Asia-Pacific this is closely followed by Sports and Wellness as well as Arts and Culture as most popular categories for Online Experiences . Guests the world over are being drawn to a number of distinctive activities, including these most booked Online Experiences in countries around Asia-Pacific :
Host or join an Online Experience
Airbnb Online Experiences provide a new way for people to connect, travel virtually and earn income during the COVID-19 crisis. It also helps hosts continue to earn, while also allowing our guests to learn a new skill, safely connect with others, or pursue an interest. Inspiring hosts from more than 30 different countries are now leading their own virtual Experiences, bringing transformative activities to millions of guests.
For those interested in hosting, please visit airbnb.com/onlinehost. To further explore the wide range of Online Experiences, learn more at airbnb.com/online-experiences.
