Airbnb, in collaboration with Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), has introduced Airbnb Experiences in Sri Lanka. Launched in 2016, Airbnb Experiences is a platform where hosts offer activities and excursions to highlight local attractions. Currently, Airbnb offers more than 15,000 experiences in 800+ cities across the world.
Under Airbnb Experiences in Sri Lanka, travellers can choose from more than 40 experiences which include heritage walk, surfing, adventure walks in national parks and exploring local food spots in Colombo.
Additionally, the hospitality service provider has also launched “Social Impact Experiences,” where they partner with local non-profit organisations to develop authentic experiences. All the proceeds from this go directly to the nonprofits supported by each experience.
Amanpreet Bajaj, country manager, Airbnb, India and Sri Lanka said, “We are delighted to sign this partnership with the Sri Lankan Tourism Ministry – the first partnership of its kind in Asia. Through this Asia-first partnership, travellers, led by passionate local hosts, will be able to immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences across Sri Lanka.”
With this, Airbnb is responding to the changing trends in traveller habits across the globe. It is catering to a discerning set of travellers, who are now looking for immersive travel experiences rather than the cliched tour packages.
We pick three Airbnb Experiences that you must try out on your next visit to Sri Lanka
Surfing in Galle: Beginners and intermediate surfers should definitely try out surfing at the beautiful Dewata Beach near Galle. Guided by a professional surfer, this thrilling Airbnb experience will feature safety rules, getting the right posture, maintaining balance, surfers’ etiquette and practical surfing lessons.
Galle Fort Walks: Explore the heritage city of Galle by taking a guided walk through its Dutch, British and Portuguese-inspired alleyways. Hosted by budding travel photographer Atheeq, this Airbnb experience will give you an insight into the architecture, colonial influence, facts, stories and myths about Galle.
A Sri Lankan Cooking Experience: If you are a lover of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, then you must participate in the cooking experience hosted in Kandy. This session will offer lessons on how a typical Sri Lankan meal is cooked, the ingredients used, how the spices are prepared and cooking tips.
