A colorfully decorated duplex with Garden in Manhattan.

Inhabitat: Can you tell us a little but about Airbnb and how it works?

Joe Gebbia: Airbnb is an online marketplace for people to list, discover, and book unique accommodations around the world. From a private room to a private island, we offer an entertaining and personal way for travelers to discover new experiences and see their surroundings through the eyes of a local.

Inhabitat: What are some reasons travelers might want to choose Airbnb over a hotel?

Joe Gebbia: Airbnb offers an incredibly wide range of unique travel experiences – from the types of places you can rent to the experience you have once you’re there. On Airbnb you can stay at a house shaped like a boot in New Zealand, a houseboat in Paris, or a solar-powered home in Oahu. Even if you’re not staying on a boat or in a boot, you still get a truly memorable experience no matter where you are by living like a local and gaining insight into your surroundings from a fresh perspective.