Airbnb is relaunching its Experiences platform, shifting toward mainstream attractions and professional tours. Meanwhile, a potential U.S. government shutdown could disrupt travel, causing airport delays and national park closures. Short-term rental hosts must stay agile, leveraging direct bookings and adapting to industry shifts.
The travel industry is evolving rapidly, with major players making bold moves to capture new markets while external factors, like potential government shutdowns, create uncertainty. In this post, we explore Airbnb’s upcoming relaunch of its Experiences platform and how a possible U.S. government shutdown could impact travelers and the hospitality sector.
Since launching in 2016, Airbnb’s Experiences platform has struggled to establish itself as a significant revenue driver. Initially, it focused on unique, locally hosted activities, offering travelers off-the-beaten-path experiences. However, the platform failed to gain mainstream traction, leading Airbnb to quietly pause new listings in 2023.
Now, in May 2025, Airbnb is relaunching Experiences with a completely different approach. Instead of only focusing on niche, locally guided experiences, it will now include mainstream attractions and professional tour operators. This shift signals Airbnb’s intent to compete directly with major tour booking platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide.
To support this transition, Airbnb is introducing:
While this strategy may help Airbnb tap into the lucrative tour and activities market, it raises questions about its brand identity. Travelers initially chose Airbnb Experiences because it was different from traditional tourism offerings. By incorporating major landmarks and standardized tours, will it dilute the uniqueness that set it apart?
At the same time, this pivot could bring the growth Airbnb has been searching for. Travelers are already booking tours elsewhere, and if Airbnb can offer a seamless, trusted booking process with its existing customer base, it may finally turn Experiences into a profitable division.
While Airbnb refines its strategy, another major issue looms over the travel industry—a potential U.S. government shutdown. If lawmakers fail to pass a funding bill, the effects on travel could be significant.
Airport Delays & Security Risks
TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and Customs and Border Protection officers would be required to work without pay. In past shutdowns, this led to increased absenteeism, longer wait times, and even temporary airport shutdowns, as seen at LaGuardia in 2019.
National Parks & Attractions at Risk
During previous shutdowns, many national parks remained open but severely understaffed. Overflowing trash, vandalism, and safety concerns were common issues. Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo also had to close after exhausting reserve funds.
Passport & Visa Delays
Government office closures could cause delays in passport processing and visa services, affecting international travelers and businesses relying on inbound tourism.
While short-term disruptions may be minimal, a prolonged shutdown could create chaos for the travel industry, just as demand continues to surge.
For short-term rental hosts and property managers, these shifts present both opportunities and challenges.
For Airbnb Hosts – The revamped Experiences platform could open new revenue streams for those looking to offer curated activities alongside their accommodations. However, if Airbnb’s move toward mainstream tours overshadows local, independent hosts, smaller experience providers may need to rethink their marketing strategies.
For Travelers & STR Businesses – A government shutdown could cause travel disruptions, leading to fluctuating demand. Airport slowdowns may make domestic travel more appealing, boosting short-term rental occupancy in drive-to destinations. However, delays in national park maintenance and closures of major attractions could deter some bookings.
For Direct Booking Strategies – As the travel landscape shifts, relying solely on Airbnb or OTAs may not be enough. Property managers should continue refining their direct booking strategies, ensuring they have a diversified marketing approach to attract and retain guests.
The travel industry is in constant motion, adapting to market trends, technological advancements, and economic conditions. Airbnb’s Experiences relaunch could redefine the tours and activities sector, while external factors like a government shutdown remind us of the vulnerabilities in travel infrastructure.
For STR operators, staying informed, adapting to new opportunities, and maintaining flexibility in marketing and pricing strategies will be key to long-term success.
