Airbnb listings aren’t in short supply when it comes to the Mother City, and everyone with a spare inch in the house is rushing to make a few extra bucks.

What you might not know is that it’s going pretty well for owner-run bed-and-breakfasts in Khayelitsha. Interest in signing up with Airbnb is growing rapidly, which has led to the tech platform dedicating a space at the Khayelitsha Barn to advise aspiring entrepreneurs.

Speaking to Huff Post SA, Airbnb’s regional market consultant for southern Africa, Velma Corcoran, had the following to say:

“Through hosting on Airbnb, members of the Khayelitsha community can become part of the tourism economy. This will directly impact their lives, but also benefit the wider community, local business and shops. Airbnb can help unlock diverse communities that weren’t as accessible to visitors before.”

Let’s take a look at two of the more popular listings, starting with Malebo’s B&B – Township Experience. From their Airbnb listing:

“Experience Khayelitsha township and Xhosa culture in our locally owned B&B 30 minutes from Cape Town. We have been hosting travellers in our home for more than 16 years. We have five comfortable, renovated rooms. Xhosa cuisine is my speciality!”

Rates wise you’re looking at from R506 per night and up.

And then we have Lungi’s Township B&B: Red Room:

“How safe is sleeping in the middle of the township? What you hear about townships might only be the negative stories. But, in general, this area of Khayelitsha is safe and there is a lot of social control by the local community. During the evenings, men from the neighbourhood committee make sure the bed-and-breakfast area is secure and safe.

“Since Lungi’s B&B opened its doors, no incidents have happened and we are proud to say that all our guests tell us that they really feel safe while staying with Gladys and her family,” Lungi’s BnB says on Airbnb.

Rates wise you’re looking at from R597 per night and up.

Here’s hoping that business continues to boom for listings such as these, and that Airbnb offers the necessary support to others who are keen to follow suit.

Just don’t be a dick and stick your camera in everyone’s faces while you’re there, mkay?

[source:huffpostsa]