Airbnb cancels Great Wall contest after backlash

Airbnb has suspended its international contest offering a night's stay on the Great Wall of China after fierce backlash from Chinese media and authorities. The competition, launched to promote cross-cultural connections, required applicants to submit projects on the importance of cultural ties. It received hundreds of thousands of entries before the August 11 deadline. However, Chinese critics accused Airbnb of exploiting a national monument for private profit, especially as the site faces deterioration from overtourism. Local authorities withdrew permission for temporary accommodations, forcing Airbnb to cancel despite assurances that the structures would not damage the ancient stones. The marketing campaign, intended to boost Airbnb's presence in Asia, backfired, damaging the company's image.