The portal’s accommodation won’t be available direct. Instead, first-time users can claim a £20 voucher code to use on Airbnb’s site or app and online bookings can be made via the STA Travel site via the dedicated landing page.

STA claims it will be the first high street travel agent to partner with Airbnb.

The p2p travel platform’s accommodation will be bookable both online and through an in-store referral programme.

STA Travel chief executive John Constable, said: “We’re very proud to partner with Airbnb, the most recognised name in this rapidly growing sector of the accommodation market, as it complements and completes our already extensive range of accommodation options around the globe.  

“Initial results are incredibly encouraging, showing strong demand for Airbnb properties in Europe and North America, but also for more exotic, long-haul destinations that traditionally appeal to STA Travel’s customers – from Hong Kong to Singapore, and from Brazil to French Polynesia.”

James McClure, country manager Airbnb UK and Ireland, said: “We now have over 1.5 million properties listed on our site, located across 190 countries and 34,000 cities around the world.

“We know that STA Travel customers are intrepid explorers who are keen to enjoy destinations like a local, and this is exactly the kind of experience that our hosts can deliver.”