Story of Airbnb: From Air Mattresses to a Global Hospitality Empire In 2007, roommates Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia couldn’t afford rent in San Francisco. With a design conference in town and hotels fully booked, they rented out air mattresses in their apartment, offering breakfast to guests. They called it “AirBed & Breakfast,” hosting three visitors who paid $80 each. Realizing its potential, they teamed up with Nathan Blecharczyk to launch a website in 2008, though initial traction was slow. To survive, they sold quirky “Obama O’s” cereal, raising $30,000. Joining Y Combinator in 2009, they rebranded to Airbnb and expanded beyond air mattresses to offer unique stays like homes, treehouses, and castles. By 2011, Airbnb had 1 million bookings globally. Despite regulatory challenges and the pandemic, they adapted with long-term stays and virtual experiences. Today, Airbnb is a multibillion-dollar company, revolutionizing travel by connecting people with authentic, local experiences.
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