On Saturday, November 19, 2016, I spoke at the Airbnb Open in Downtown Los Angeles. It was a truly unique experience. Overall, there was a feeling of inclusion. The basis of that is that the founders of Airbnb believes that, fundamentally, people are good. It was the kindest, most giving, best communicating group, all in one place.
This event has grown exponentially over the years. An app that started as an air mattress in a corner has grown to three million listings worldwide. And, Airbnb just launched Experiences, where you can engage with fascinating folks in key cities. None of this would be able to exist if it weren’t for the basic good nature of its people.
This year, there were three days of simultaneous events. It was a festival-like celebration of hosting, peppered with music, education, an awards show, food, and more. There were celebs and red carpets and high-profile shows (because: L.A.), including Maroon 5 and Lady Gaga.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNBhCbODI3t/?taken-by=airbnbopen
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNC3cGZB1o6/?taken-by=chunkofchange
I spoke on Saturday about how to make your Airbnb listing stand out. You can view the slides from my presentation here.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNAVXtbhW96/?taken-by=chunkofchange
All of the other host educators connected on WhatsApp, communicating regularly and helping each other out the entire weekend. The group was so "on it" that any time a message was posted, there was a response within seconds. We all met up at the Grand Market and indulged in the wide variety of food stalls, enjoyed a cocktail on the rooftop at Perch, and supported each other by attending one another’s talks throughout the event.
I’d recommend it as a stand-out event, not just for the Airbnb community, but for any festival-goer. It was so well organized and meticulously planned, that it went off without a hitch. I wish I had brought my pose of peeps along for the ride. It was that good.
Can’t wait for next year. I’m guessing: Asia. Hope to see YOU there, too!
