Hole up like a hobbit during your Hobbiton Airbnb vacation

For the first time ever, fans from around the world can explore the faraway lands of their favorite holiday films with an exclusive overnight stay at the original Hobbiton™ Movie Set. Russell Alexander is inviting guests to his family’s property to live like Bilbo Baggins and retreat to The Shire™ for an overnight stay at Hobbiton, as featured in the famed The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.

Nestled in the picturesque pastures of New Zealand’s Waikato region on a 2,500-acre working farm, the property’s rolling, green hills – bear a striking similarity to The Shire™ as described by J. R. R. Tolkien in The Lord of the Rings, and captivated Sir Peter Jackson’s movie scouts more than two decades ago. The team quickly realized the Hobbits had found their home – and this holiday season, it could be yours. 

Air bnb / Hobbiton
Air bnb / Hobbiton

Alexander will host three individual two-night stays for up to four guests at NZD $10 per night* as an homage to the 10th anniversary of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, courtesy of Airbnb. 

With access to 44 Hobbit Holes, The Millhouse, The Green Dragon Inn, and other beloved locations from the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, guests will take an unexpected journey into Middle-earth for an experience unlike any other. 

Air bnb / Hobbiton
Air bnb / Hobbiton

With sweeping views of The Shire, they’ll enjoy: 

  • Cozy overnight accommodation curated by the trilogies’ Creative Director Brian Massey, including a writing nook fit for Bilbo Baggins at The Millhouse.
  • Private access to a personal Hobbit Hole, set up for relaxing moments of Preciousss™  downtime and afternoon tea. 
  • An evening banquet in The Green Dragon Inn with a feast featuring beef and ale stew, whole roast chickens, freshly baked breads and plenty of ale, plus Second Breakfast™ and Elevenses™ served daily. 
  • A behind-the-scenes private tour of Hobbiton Movie Set.

Now, one does not simply walk into Middle-earth. There are rules!

  • No unexpected parties, please –  unless with Gandalf and company.
  • Bare feet are allowed but wipe them first.
  • Magical rings permitted, but keep them secret, keep them safe.
  • Pony parking is provided only at The Green Dragon Inn.
  • Straying far at night is discouraged, thanks to multiple troll sightings of late.
  • No pets are allowed, except Pickles the resident Hobbiton cat.
  • Never laugh at live dragons…
05 - Hobbiton Airbnb - Aerial Millhouse - Credit Larnie Nicolson
Air bnb / Hobbiton

“For more than two decades, we’ve welcomed millions of passionate fans to Hobbiton Movie Set, but never before has anyone had the opportunity to spend a night in Middle-earth. I am delighted to share the beauty of my family’s farm and pleased to be hosting this iconic location on Airbnb for fans from around the world,” shares Host Russel Alexander.

How to book

Hobbits, elves, wizards and others may request to book one of three overnight stays on Wednesday, December 14 from 10:00AM NZDT/5:00AM PHT at airbnb.com/hobbiton. Stays will take place March 2-4, March 9-11, and March 16-18, 2023. You Shall Not Pass! (without requesting to book, of course).

To request to book, guests must have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews and be aged 18+. Maximum occupancy is four persons. Two bedrooms are configured, featuring one queen bed, and the other two king-singles.

Air bnb / Hobbiton
Air bnb / Hobbiton

Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from Auckland, New Zealand. Round trip car transportation will be provided for the two-hour journey between the airport and the property. (And just as a Wizard is never late, it’s important our guests arrive at their stay precisely when they mean to).

Travellers looking to book should note that this stay’s rules require strict adherence with local COVID-19 guidelines. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Auckland. Airbnb is closely monitoring COVID-19 infection rates and government policies and will offer booking guests a refund of the booking fee ($31) and $1,000 USD Airbnb travel credit if Airbnb determines it is necessary to cancel the stay due to COVID-19 guidelines.

*Plus taxes and fees. These three individual two-night stays are not a contest. The Hobbiton Movie Set is privately owned and operated.

Air bnb / Hobbiton
Air bnb / Hobbiton

SHIRE TOURS, SHIRE’S REST, MIDDLE-EARTH, GREEN DRAGON, HOBBITON, THE HOBBIT and THE LORD OF THE RINGS and the characters, places, events and items contained therein, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Middle-Earth Enterprises, LLC and are used under license by Rings Scenic Tours Limited and Wingnut Film Productions Limited, which are independently owned and operated.

About Hobbiton Movie Set

From the moment you journey through the rolling green hills of the Waikato and get your first glimpse of real Middle-earth™, Hobbiton Movie Set will enchant you as a fictional world comes to life and captivating stories are shared. Since that fateful knock at the door in 1998, to the permanent reconstruction in 2009, every detail of the 12-acre movie set is lovingly maintained, creating the experience that exists today. Guests from around the world will feel welcomed to our slice of New Zealand countryside with iconic storybook landscapes, where each encounter offers a unique and authentic behind-the-scenes movie set experience. 

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

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12 Stays of Christmas: 12 unique and luxurious Airbnb stays now available to book for only Php 1,222 each

As the country with the longest Christmas season in the world, celebrations in the Philippines are uniquely festive and filled with heartwarming homecomings, joyful reunions, and exhilarating merrymaking. 

This year, to enable Filipinos to create more meaningful celebrations during this beautiful time of the year, 12 of the country’s most amazing Airbnb stays will be made available in December for only Php 1,222* each!

Spanning across six of Airbnb’s unique Categories ranging from Design to Amazing Views, these incredible homes will be available to book for an exclusive one-night stay over two weekends: December 10 to 11, or December 17 to 18. 

“Christmas is a very special time for Filipinos. More than the colorful light displays and the exchanging of gifts, Christmas represents an opportunity for Filipinos to celebrate what really matters most — their loved ones. We hope that this special offer will encourage Filipinos to create precious memories with family and friends, while celebrating our Host community and the diversity of stays and destinations that the Philippines offer,” shares Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

Each of the 12 homes below are available to book for only PHP 1,222 starting today for an unforgettable Christmas vacation — fastest fingers first!

December 10 to 11: Farm Stays, Amazing Views, and Cabins

1 Farm Stay - La Casa in Pampanga
For the perfect holiday escapade, drive up north for La Casa in Pampanga. This farm stay comes with lush fruit orchards and a crystal-clear pool for loads of splashing fun with the family.
2 Farm Stay - Hidden Rose Farm Villa in Batangas
Located in the south, Hidden Rose Farm Villa in Batangas offers a cosy bonfire pit, reading lounge, and a half-mile hiking trail and hanging bridge for a thrilling adventure.
3 Amazing Views - Beach House in Pagbilao
Fancy going off-grid this Christmas? This Beach House in Pagbilao offers the luxury of privacy amidst beautiful blue waters. You’ll even need to ride a bangka to reach the island!
4 Amazing Views - San Juan Garden Hill in Talisay
San Juan Garden Hill in Talisay promises a breath of fresh air –  this mountainside home is a sanctuary for nature lovers and boasts unprecedented views of the waters of Taal Lake.
5 Amazing Views - Kasbah Remo in Puerto Galera
Seated at the cliff edge of the Punta del Este promontory, Kasbah Remo in Puerto Galera offers guests a relaxing feeling of serenity and simplicity — thanks to its uninterrupted views of the surrounding islands, mountains, and ocean.
6 Cabin - Bufi Log Home in Tagaytay 2
One of the most beautiful cabins in Tagaytay, Bufi Log Home comes fully decked out in Christmas decor with a warming fireplace that will surely rouse everyone’s holiday spirit.
7 Cabin - Home in Tagaytay
For a classic, no-fuss getaway, this home in Tagaytay is perfect for large families or barkadas. Make sure to pack sweaters and lots of stories for long Christmas nights.

December 17 to 18: Design, Amazing Pools and Beachfront

8 Design - Moriz Place in Tagaytay
A modern-style bahay kubo made of bamboo, glass, and anahaw, Moriz Place in Tagaytay offers a perfect break from the bustle of urban living. It comes with a spacious backyard including a billiards table, darts, arcade, and roof deck.
9 Design - Modern Contemporary Villa in Bacolod
Traveling to the City of Smiles? This modern contemporary villa in Bacolod comes complete with a spacious dining area for feasting and a luxurious pool.
10 Amazing Pool - House in Pampanga
Originally a warehouse built in the 1970s, this spacious house in Pampanga reminiscent of the traditional bahay na bato sits in the middle of a 3-hectare fruit orchard.
11 Amazing Pool - Casa Nordell
Also located in the Christmas capital is Casa Nordell, a three-bedroom Spanish-inspired villa ideal for a family gathering with a huge pool and garden lined with lush trees.
12 Beachfront - Casa Angelina in Zambales
A beachfront home offering guests respite from the metro is Casa Angelina in Zambales. This wheelchair-accessible beachfront cottage is pet-friendly and lolo and lola-friendly!

Introduced in May this year, Airbnb Categories allow millions of travelers to discover homes they never knew existed and have since revolutionized how people search for vacation homes. Discover more unique stays for festive getaways by downloading the Airbnb app or visiting https://www.airbnb.com.

All Homes referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific Home listings on the Airbnb platform.

*Plus taxes and fees.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Attention, A.R.M.Y.: You can relax like BTS as IN THE SOOP Estate is now on Airbnb

K-Pop fans rejoice! The expansive property where 21st-century pop icons BTS stayed during the filming of HYBE’s original content, IN THE SOOP BTS ver. Season 2, is now on Airbnb for an overnight stay for the first time ever. Guests will get the chance to find a moment of peace in the lush countryside of South Korea’s Gangwon region – just as the seven members did while enjoying everyday life and rest on the original content produced by HYBE. 

22 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Landscape - Credit Time of Blue
21 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Mountain Views - Credit Time of Blue

During the second season of IN THE SOOP BTS, the band members experienced leisurely moments and reconnected with nature amidst their busy schedules. Guests will stay at the property, which is a part of a larger estate, and relive their favorite IN THE SOOP BTS moments, such as:

  • Reading books in the study like RM or relaxing, Jin-style, on the unicorn-shaped float in the home’s pool
  • Finding creative inspiration and strumming guitars like SUGA, snapping selfies with a Polaroid like j-hope or painting on a canvas as V does 
  • For more high-energy entertainment, weight training like Jimin, flying high on a trampoline like Jung Kook or bouncing a ball in the basketball court like Bam, Jung Kook’s dog
20 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Gym Equipment - Credit Time of Blue
14 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Music Room - Credit Time of Blue

About the stay

The one-night stay* on August 29 for only $7** — a nod to the band’s seven members — will immerse two lucky guests in the various elements the K-pop group personally enjoyed during their time on property only a few months ago, including: 

  • Some of the same furniture and amenities that appeared on the show so guests can truly channel the lifestyle of BTS
  • A karaoke machine, sound system and all of BTS hit tracks and albums, including “Permission to Dance”, “Butter” and their just-released album, Proof
  • Specially catered dishes like charcoal grilled Korean beef (which the band referred to as “the best taste in the universe” in the show), and tteokbokki, or simmered rice cakes. Plus egg tarts produced by Bang & Bakers, currently  served at HYBE INSIGHT, HYBE’s music museum.
17 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Kitchen - Credit Time of Blue
12 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Living Room 2 - Credit Time of Blue

How to book

Guests can request to book this stay on Tuesday, August 2 from 11 AM KST (10 AM PHT) at airbnb.com/inthesoopbts. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Seoul, South Korea. Round trip car transportation will be provided for the 20-minute journey from KTX PyeongChang station to the IN THE SOOP BTS property.

While only one overnight stay will be offered, “geok jeong ma” — there will be an opportunity to check out the IN THE SOOP BTS property while staying at other listings near the property soon.

09 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Dining Room - Credit Time of Blue
05 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Bedroom 2 - Credit Time of Blue

For those looking to discover similar stays surrounded by nature, Airbnb recently introduced a new way to search and discover homes through Airbnb Categories. With 200,000 countryside homes available around the globe, there are plenty of “in the soop” inspired getaways. 

Those hoping to stay in the IN THE SOOP BTS ver. ‘Pyeongchang’ Filming Location should note that this stay’s rules require following applicable local rules and guidelines as well as Airbnb’s COVID-19 Safety Practices, which will include wearing a mask and practicing social distancing when required by local laws or guidelines. Staff will also comply with local rules and guidelines while on-site, and will abide by our five-step enhanced cleaning process. 

19 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Staircase - Credit Time of Blue
06 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Bedroom Nook - Credit Time of Blue

*This one-night stay is available for one participant and their fellow guest and is not a contest. 

**Plus taxes and fees

Airbnb is closely monitoring Korea COVID-19 infection rates and government policies and will offer booking guests a US $1,000 Airbnb travel credit if Airbnb determines it is necessary to cancel the stay

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 900 million guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer one-of-a-kind stays and unique Experiences that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.

About HYBE

HYBE, rebranded from Big Hit Entertainment in March 2021, is a global entertainment lifestyle platform company that seeks boundless expansion in order to innovate the music industry. Ever since, HYBE has been expanding its multi label system including BIGHIT MUSIC, BELIFT LAB, SOURCE MUSIC, PLEDIS Entertainment, KOZ ENTERTAINMENT, ADOR, HYBE LABELS JAPAN, while HYBE AMERICA also manages its affiliate labels including Big Machine Label Group. In addition to the label business, HYBE established an integrated structure with its  solution business that creates concert, video content, game, original story and retail, as well as a platform business through Weverse, a global fandom platform. Composed of its three headquarters based in Korea, Japan and the US, the company works towards bringing innovative change throughout the global music industry. 

About BTS

BTS, an acronym of Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Beyond the Scene,” are a GRAMMY-nominated South Korean boy band that has been capturing the hearts of millions of fans globally since their debut in June 2013. The members of BTS are RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook. Gaining recognition for their authentic and self-produced music, top-notch performances, and the way they interact with their fans, the band has established themselves as 21st century pop icons breaking countless world records. While imparting a positive influence through activities such as the LOVE MYSELF campaign and the UN ‘Speak Yourself’ speech, the band has mobilized millions of fans across the world (named ARMY), collected six No.1 Billboard Hot 100 singles in a span of a year and just over a month, and performed multiple sold-out stadium shows across the world. They were also named TIME’s Entertainer of the Year 2020. BTS were nominated two years in a row for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 63rd and 64th GRAMMY Awards and have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards like the Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards (Artist of the Year 2021) and MTV Video Music Awards. 

01 - Airbnb BTS IN THE SOOP - Exterior with BTS IN THE SOOP - Credit Time of Blue

About IN THE SOOP

IN THE SOOP, an original content produced by HYBE, features artists embarking on a break in the woods as they step away from their regular work routines. Starring artists reconnecting with nature, HYBE released a series of shows from “In the SOOP BTS Ver.”, “In the SOOP BTS ver. Season 2”, “IN THE SOOP SEVENTEEN ver.”, to its spin-off “IN THE SOOP : Friend-cation”. Based on the concept of restful and healing break from the series, HYBE introduces off-line pop up stores with lifestyle products in multiple cities around the world including Seoul, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. Fans will also be able to experience a unique accommodation and F&B experience at IN THE SOOP BTS ver. ‘Pyeongchang’ Filming Location starting August 2022. Through IN THE SOOP, HYBE continues to provide immersive entertainment lifestyle experiences through original content featuring artists, merchandise and offline stores. 

House images and details provided by Airbnb in a recent press release.

From campers to domes: 10 Most Wishlisted Unique Airbnb Stays to spice up your next vacation

Ever wanted a special stay for that long-awaited work recharge or a weekend getaway to celebrate loved ones? If you’re not sure where to start searching, Airbnb’s new Categories search tool is set to change that with the launch of 56 new categories. 

Travelers are now able to discover and explore the most unique spaces all over the world  — including Campers, Treehouses, A-frames, and Domes.  To get you started, Airbnb has rounded up some of Filipinos’ most wishlisted unique stays on the platform. 

#VanLife Campers

For those thinking about moving into a van and traveling the world, why not get a taste of #vanlife first with these beautiful trailers:

  • Jeepney Camper in Rizal: This cosy jeepney-turned-camper promises to provide a truly Pinoy #vanlife experience. Nestled in the lush rainforests of Sierra Madre, the stay comes with a campfire pit and a pool so guests can enjoy the outdoors.
  • Vintage Airstream Suite in Batangas: The very first Airstream accommodation in the country, this vintage 25-foot footer camper offers a living area with a couch, dining area, kitchenette, and a bedroom with a queen-sized bed. Even if you are not a fan of tiny houses, it is easy to fall in love with this trailer’s rustic charm.
Whimsical Treehouses

Go off-grid with these glorious homes perched high on the treetops:

  • Treehouse by the Ocean in Batangas: In this vibrant and proudly local hut located in sunny Calatagan, guests can enjoy a private pool, coral reef beach and starry night skies perfect for stargazing. It’s also near Cape Santiago Lighthouse for a quick historical trip.
  • Treehouse de Valentine in Cebu: Unconventional for all the right reasons, this treehouse is the perfect nest away from the busy Queen City of the South. Guests will find it hard to pick their favorite feature of this treehouse villa – be it the wooden hot tub, patios overlooking the rainforest, or charming rustic decor.
Gorgeous A-frames

Whether oceanside, lakeside, or mountainside, these vacation homes are as fun as they are cosy:

  • Mango Nest Hut in Zambales: Planning a glamping trip for two? Located just fifteen minutes from Subic’s waterfalls and beaches, Mango Nest is a 12sq m tiny hut located in a garden. Outside, you can enjoy a picnic and say hello to the Host’s friendly poodles wandering about the garden.
  • Alhibé Farm Exclusive Homestay in Cebu: Check out Alhibé Farm, a boutique mountainside homestay complete with its own nipa hut and swimming pool with water from the nearby springs. A bantawan (covered bamboo deck) for private events and movie night experiences inside the mini forest is a bonus point.
Rejuvenating Beach Homes

These homes are the perfect rejuvenating getaway, where you can listen to the waves crashing against the sand in the morning and lulling yourself to sleep with the sound of the sea every night:

  • Anilao Beach House in Batangas: This oceanfront glasshouse in Anilao comes with a reef at your doorstep, making it the perfect spot for avid divers. You can also rent diving gear, jet skis and windsurfing equipment for an ultimate adrenaline-packed weekend.
  • Floral Island in Palawan: With its great food, incredible snorkeling spots, and warm hospitality, Floral Island is undeniably one of the best private islands in Palawan. Each booking includes access to six villas, a private restaurant, beachside bonfire, and massage hut; plus exciting activities like kayaking, island hopping, and even coral reef planting.
Geodesic Domes

Experience the wilderness in these geodesic domes, perfect for long nights of stargazing:

  • Domescape in Batangas: Located in Nasugbu, Domescape features six tastefully styled domes surrounded by lush greenery and natural pools, letting nature-lovers experience the great outdoors without compromising comfort. Each dome comes furnished with comfy beds, an air-conditioner, and mini-fridge. 
  • Dome Mufli King in Laguna: Situated in a glamping site that looks straight out of a sci-fi film, Dome Mufli King is fully run on solar power. Bookings are inclusive of a home-cooked breakfast and free use of kayaks, floaters, and fishing poles, which you can enjoy in the waters of Lumot Lake.
About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.