How Airbnb is Bringing You Extraordinary Experiences This Summer With Icons!

One of the first questions that need to be answered before going on a trip is whether you should book your stay at a hotel or an Airbnb. Although some people prefer the luxuries of a hotel, others prefer the home away from home feelings at Airbnb. However, as Airbnb upgrades its offerings, more people are likely to book their stays at Airbnb rather than hotels. The new release by Airbnb is just in time for summer 2024. In addition to getting more amenities for the price you pay, the new features at Airbnb might just be what you need to explore on your next trip!

What is The ‘Icons’ Program on Airbnb?

Airbnb recently launched its brand new feature ‘Icons’. This might just be the add-on that will take your vacation to the next level! So, what is the Icons program? The Icons program which launched with 11 experiences offers extraordinary experiences hosted by the greatest names in music, film, television, art, sports and more.

Icons let you step into worlds you’ve only ever dreamed of. Drift off in the Up house. Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum. Hang out with Kevin Hart. Today, we’re unveiling the first 11 Icons on Airbnb, with new experiences dropping around the world throughout the year. If you’re interested in the Icon’s program, here are some of the experiences that you can book on Airbnb now:

Drift off in the Up house

Sleep inside one of Disney and Pixar’s most iconic homes—and yes, it floats. In addition to exploring Carl’s world in this detailed re-creation of his home, this stay is complete with more than 8,000 balloons and located in the scenic red rocks of Abiquiu, New Mexico.

Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of racing with a stay at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, Italy. You’ll sleep on a bed crafted from the same leather as Ferrari seats, take a lap with Scuderia Ferrari ambassador driver Marc Gené, and head to Emilia-Romagna’s premier race as a VIP.

Step into X-Men ’97

Live like the X-Men as you stay in a 2D animated re-creation of Marvel Animation’s X-Mansion in Westchester, New York. You’ll discover your mutant abilities and even train in the Danger Room.

Go VIP with Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is taking you inside his members-only Coramino Live Lounge for an A-list evening. You’ll join Kevin and his friends in this secret speakeasy, where they’ll treat you to a tequila tasting and live stand-up by the best comedians in the game.

Wake up in the Musée d’Orsay

Stay in the Paris art museum’s iconic clock room, which has been transformed into a luxurious bedroom by Mathieu Lehanneur, designer of the Paris 2024 Games torch and cauldron. From the terrace, you’ll witness the historic Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games along the River Seine.

Join a living room session with Doja Cat

Fresh off a tour performing on the world’s biggest stages, Doja is hosting you for a much more intimate experience. You’ll enjoy an unforgettable living room performance from the Grammy-winning artist, including her favourite songs and tracks from her latest album.

Stay in Prince’s Purple Rain house

Prince purchased the Minneapolis, Minnesota home featured in the legendary film Purple Rain, but it’s never been available to the public until now. Explore the home for rare and special tracks from Prince’s world in an exclusive studio session.

Game with Khaby at This Airbnb Experience

TikTok sensation Khaby invites you to his hometown of Milan, Italy for an epic, overnight gaming experience. You’ll stay in a one-of-a-kind gaming loft that Khaby designed himself. In addition to getting to #learnfromkhaby you can also face off with him in a Fortnite Battle Royale.

Go on tour with Feid

Join the reggaeton superstar on his FERXXOCALIPSIS World Tour for an entire week. You’ll join the crew for rehearsals, ride along on the tour bus, and get backstage access for every show.

Live like Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor is inviting you into the legendary, never-before-seen Kapoor family home in Chennai, India. From learning her Bollywood beauty secrets to tasting her favourite southern Indian dishes, Janhvi will host you personally on this ultimate overnight stay.

Make core memories with Inside Out 2 with Airbnb

In anticipation of the June 14 release of Disney and Pixar’s new movie Inside Out 2, you’re invited to an overnight stay at Headquarters, the control centre of Riley’s emotions. Your host, Joy, will welcome you into her vibrant world to witness the emotions in action and help keep things in balance.

Icons take you inside worlds that only existed in your imagination – until now. As life becomes increasingly digital, we’re focused on bringing more magic into the real world. With Icons, we’ve created the most extraordinary experiences on Earth, says Brian Chesky – Airbnb co-founder and CEO.

Icons are featured in their own category right on the homepage. Most Icons are free, and all are priced under $100 USD per guest. A countdown displays the time until each Icon goes live, and guests can request to book through the app. The lucky guests who are selected will receive a digital golden ticket, and more than 4,000 tickets will be available in 2024

Dreaming of a Maldivian escape but worried about the cost? Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a lavish budget to experience the stunning beauty of the Maldives. With pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, the Maldives can be an affordable destination if you know where to look and how to plan. This guide will unveil the best budget-friendly resorts, practical travel tips, and insider secrets to help you enjoy a cost-effective yet unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise. Discover how to maximize your experience while keeping your wallet happy with our comprehensive tips for budget travel in the Maldives.

Booking Affordable Stays in the Maldives

One of the biggest cost-effective travel tips for the Maldives is booking a budget-friendly stay. This does not always mean you have to book stays in islands, you can always book a budget-friendly resort as well. However, if you’re really on the lookout for cost-effective travel, here are some resort-like islands in the Maldives you can visit.

Thoddoo: Known for its agricultural bounty, especially watermelons, Thoddoo offers budget-friendly guesthouses and an authentic local experience. The white sandy beaches and turquoise waters are a major draw.
Maafushi: One of the most popular budget islands. Maafushi has a variety of guesthouses and budget hotels. It’s known for its “bikini beach” and offers many affordable dining options and water activities.
Thulusdhoo: Famous for its surf breaks and local art scene. Thulusdhoo offers affordable guesthouses and a vibrant cultural vibe. It’s a great option for budget travellers looking for a unique Maldivian experience.
Fulidhoo: A tranquil island in Vaavu Atoll. Fulidhoo provides affordable accommodations and an authentic Maldivian experience with its pristine beaches and clear waters.
Rasdhoo: Known for its vibrant marine life. Rasdhoo is a budget-friendly option in North Ari Atoll with several guesthouses and opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

Tips for Cost-Effective Travel in the Maldives

We all want to book trips to the Maldives but oftentimes miss out on these amazing cost-effective travel tips. With these tips, you can get a really good deal on your resort stay, whether it’s a local island or a Maldives resort.

Booking in Advance: If you’re an avid traveller, you already know the benefits of booking in advance. When you’re coming to the Maldives, the same tip applies. Book your hotels, and resorts as well as your flight to the Maldives in advance.
Stay Close to the Airport: Islands like Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, and Dhiffushi are close to Malé, reducing transportation costs. Staying near the airport also means cheaper and more frequent transfer options.
Day Passes to Maldives Resorts: If you do a budget trip, and still want to explore resorts, look into day trips. Destinations like CROSSROADS Maldives feature day trips, where you can explore the luxury resort side of the Maldives. In addition to dining, you can shop for souvenirs, and have a pool or a beach day.
Booking the Maldives off-Season: Rainy season and vacation might sound scary. But when it comes to the Maldives, you’ll still get lots of sunshine during the off-season. You will, however, get a more cost-effective trip!