Israeli Tourist Denied Airbnb Workshop in Italy Over Profile Flag
An Israeli-American tourist on her honeymoon in Italy was asked by an Airbnb host to cancel a pasta workshop because she displayed an Israeli flag on her profile.
A honeymoon trip to Italy turned into a distressing experience of alleged discrimination for an Israeli-American tourist. Carmit Levy, a 35-year-old resident of Florida traveling with her husband, booked a pasta-making workshop in Italy through the Airbnb Experiences platform.
Discrimination Claims over an Israeli Flag
Shortly after booking the culinary workshop, the Italian host, identified as Nico, asked Levy to cancel her reservation, citing ethical and family reasons. Levy, who displays an Israeli flag on her profile picture, expressed outrage over the demand, labeling the incident as blatant antisemitism and discrimination against Israelis.
I was boiling with rage. How dare they ask me to cancel for ethical reasons? Normal adults don't have to agree on everything, but that doesn't give them the right to discriminate against me.
Host Defense and Airbnb Response
Defending his position, the host explained that displaying the Israeli flag crossed a personal line and exposed them to unwanted political statements during what was supposed to be a neutral cultural activity. He argued that the guest chose to make a political statement by featuring the flag.
Despite multiple attempts to contact Airbnb customer service regarding the cancellation and the alleged discrimination, Levy reported receiving little support or direct communication from the company's specialized teams.
