Homestay.com Builds Lodging Network for Ryder Cup Volunteers
Homestay.com will offer accommodation options to volunteers for the 2014 Ryder Cup, taking place 26-28 September 2014. With more than 1,800 volunteers converging on Perthshire and surrounding localities, the need for affordable temporary housing is high. Driven by the success of a similar program built for the XX Commonwealth Games, event organizers have again turned to Homestay.com to support their lodging needs.
The program matches volunteers searching for accommodations with hosts who have agreed to open their homes to program participants. Homestay accommodation is a growing global trend as tourists seek more authentic and enriching travel experiences, especially during major sporting and cultural events like the XX Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup.
The Ryder Cup is expected to draw thousands of visitors from North America, Europe and beyond to watch the two teams of professional golfers compete. Hosts will provide complimentary accommodations and breakfast to volunteers, help them reach nearby public transportation points and help their guests acclimate to the area.
Homestay.com is a new global travel website founded in Dublin, Ireland, by Hostelworld.com co-founder Tom Kennedy and Debbie Flynn, director and founder of Irish Education Partners. Homestays offer travelers a "host present" lodging option, enhancing the travel experience through the hospitality and local knowledge of the host.
The homestay sector has grown in popularity, moving into mainstream travel. No longer just for students, it is now a recognized accommodation alternative for tourists seeking out a more authentic local travel experience. Homestay.com estimates that the global homestay market spend is in the region of $13 billion.
About Homestay.com
Homestay.com, named one of Europe’s top three travel innovators by PhoCusWright, is a Dublin-based firm pioneering new ways to enjoy experiential accommodation choices through a “hosted travel experience” homestay model. Homestay.com is a limited company and has raised venture capital funding through Delta Partners Ltd. The company also provides the Homestay Manager software to Homestay agencies and host families worldwide. Homestay.com chairman is Paddy Holahan, the founder and CEO of Newbay. CEO is Alan Clarke, previously of PaddyPower.com.
Media Enquiries
Mark O’Toole or Todd Van Hoosear
HB Agency
781-893-0053
homestay@hbagency.com