But Airbnb tapped into something greater than low prices and an abundance of available inventory. It offered an experience that was special and different. Even its imperfections fed into a growing desire for a travel experience that felt a little smaller-scale and more “artisanal” than staying at a standard hotel. It also opened up access to different kinds of neighborhoods than traditional tourist zones, so you could have an experience that felt more local, an advantage Airbnb heavily pushes.
