Airbnb Data Ranks Culinary Experiences as Fastest Growing Category in Indonesia

Bali serves as a hotspot for culinary experiences in Indonesia, accounting for more than 90% of all such bookings across the country, according to new Airbnb data. Food & Drink experiences have surged in popularity on the platform, ranking as the third most popular category in Indonesia after Nature & Outdoors and History & Culture.

Bali's culinary offerings boast an impressive 4.94 average rating, with guests particularly enamored by terms like "authentic," "traditional," "hands-on," "local," and "family." The trend extends beyond Experiences, with searches for Airbnb homes equipped with kitchen facilities surging over 20% year-on-year. Airbnb's Country Head for Southeast Asia & India, Amanpreet Bajaj, noted that travelers now seek more immersive experiences that connect them deeply with destinations, and food plays a significant role in this.

To capitalize on this growing interest, Airbnb recently hosted a Culture & Culinary Trail luncheon in Bali featuring renowned chefs Arnold and Reynold Poernomo. The event showcased local ingredients and stories, highlighting intimate sessions on Balinese food culture and interactive dining experiences. Chef Arnold Poernomo emphasized that food brings people together and tells the story of a place.

His brother, Chef Reynold Poernomo, advised travelers to explore local markets for unique produce and to engage directly with local hosts through Airbnb Experiences. They suggest three standout Experiences for a Bali trip: a 15-course dessert tasting at Room4Dessert, an organic Balinese farm cooking class in Ubud, and a night under the stars with conservationist Wayan Wardika, who leads firefly watching and herb harvesting.

Airbnb advises that these experiences are merely for inspiration and does not endorse specific listings.