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Singapore - Airbnb hosts across Singapore are voicing their frustration and concern over a new feature introduced by the popular travel booking platform. The feature, quietly rolled out, allows guests to book add-on services like private chefs, in-home massages, and even “glam” services (hair and makeup) directly through the Airbnb platform – without the explicit consent or knowledge of the host.

This sudden shift has sparked a heated debate within the Airbnb community, with many hosts feeling blindsided and concerned about the potential disruption to their properties and their control over the guest experience. The core issue, as many hosts highlight, is the lack of transparency and communication from Airbnb regarding this significant change.

“I list my apartment on Airbnb to provide a comfortable and safe space for travellers,” explains Sarah Lim, an Airbnb host in River Valley. “I carefully curate the experience to ensure my guests feel welcome and respected. This new feature completely undermines that. I don’t want strangers coming into my home to provide spa treatments without me knowing! It's a safety and privacy concern.”

The new add-on services, marketed as “Airbnb Experiences at Home,” are designed to enhance the guest’s stay and offer a more luxurious and convenient travel experience. Guests can browse and book these services directly through the Airbnb app or website, and the providers are vetted by Airbnb. However, hosts are not automatically notified, nor do they have the option to opt-out.

Airbnb defends the new feature, stating it aims to provide guests with more options and cater to their evolving needs. A spokesperson for Airbnb said, “We’re always looking for ways to improve the Airbnb experience for both guests and hosts. ‘Airbnb Experiences at Home’ offer guests a convenient way to access unique and curated experiences while travelling. We are committed to ensuring that all experiences are high quality and meet our strict safety standards.”

However, this explanation hasn't appeased many hosts. Concerns extend beyond privacy and safety. Hosts are worried about potential damage to their property, increased cleaning requirements, and the overall impact on the ambiance of their homes. Some are also questioning the revenue-sharing model, as they don’t seem to be receiving any compensation for allowing these services to be offered in their properties.

The backlash has prompted many hosts to consider their options. Some are exploring alternative listing platforms, while others are actively engaging with Airbnb to demand greater transparency and control. A petition has even been started, calling on Airbnb to require host consent before offering any add-on services.

The situation highlights a growing tension between Airbnb's desire to expand its offerings and the concerns of its host community. Whether Airbnb will address these concerns and adjust its policies remains to be seen, but the current uproar suggests that a significant shift in the platform's approach may be necessary to maintain the trust and loyalty of its hosts.

For now, Singaporean Airbnb hosts are left feeling unheard and uncertain about the future of their listings on the platform. The debate underscores the importance of clear communication and collaboration between Airbnb and its host community to ensure a sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership.