AirBed & Breakfast is maybe the site you are looking for.
Created in October 2007 by three friends in San Francisco, California, AirBed & Breakfast allows consumers to search for beds available in private homes in more than 100 cities in the world. It allows you as a tenant or a flat owner to also let this spare room to earn extra revenue and please the traveller who can't find the right hotel or cannot afford to stay in a hotel.
The idea is simple and convenient but for some reasons I woudn't try it myself. It's true I am not a backpacker but the idea of sleeping in somebody' else house without knowing the people first is a No Go for me. Same applies if I would let my spare bedroom in my flat. I wouldn't do it unless I know very well the people. Having said that, I can understand that some people don't bother at all and will be happy to connect and enjoy this way of travelling.
The founders also launched their facebook page with a community of 73 fans. A good way to get to know the people before you stay at their home! Check out testimonials videos.
In terms of revenue model, I haven't worked out how the founding team makes money.
They probably make money as any other intermediary. they will get a percentage of the amount that the guest ended up paying. Great concept but i am not sure that i am going to use it too.
Posted by: Danilo Gasparrini | Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 04:13 PM
You probably right. Or maybe advertising ads on the site.
Posted by: Guillaume | Wednesday, July 30, 2008 at 08:48 AM
Isn't this just like the hospitality club and couchsurfing?
Posted by: OK | Friday, August 01, 2008 at 07:16 PM
Hi, thanks for the post about AB&B! One key difference from other sites out there is that hosts can accept online credit card payments, and review profiles before approving a guest. The idea of staying with a local isn't for everyone, nor are we trying to market to everyone. Our typical user is someone looking for an affordable, local experience not often found in a chain hotel, where the host can cook you breakfast and recommend local events, coffee shops, nightlife, etc.
You're right, we have a pretty ordinary business model - there is a small commission taken with each transaction.
Also, the latest AB&B Facebook group can be found here:http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=23741498973
I can be reached at joe@airbedandbreakfast.com if anyone has specific questions.
Thanks again!
Joe
co-founder
Posted by: Joe | Sunday, August 03, 2008 at 05:52 AM
Techcrunch have just written an article on these guys, started with $20k in seed money apparently. Has some interesting and also quite funny comments, as always..
http://www.techcrunch.com/2008/08/11/airbed-and-breakfast-takes-pad-crashing-to-a-whole-new-level/
Posted by: Jason Brooks | Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 06:52 AM