Internet entrepreneurs breathe new life into holiday rentals market

A new holiday home rentals website launched last month is already one of the largest of its kind in Europe, due to what the team behind it are terming a “breath of fresh air in a stagnant industry”.

Directholidaybookings.co.uk launched just six weeks ago but has already attracted the attention of more than 10,000 owners of apartments, cottages and villas worldwide.

Director Andrew Gibson said its success is largely down to the fact that the site is bringing the latest developments in Web 2.0 to part of the travel industry which was at risk of being left behind.

He said: “What we are doing has come as a breath of fresh air in a stagnant industry. For some reason, developments in the internet which have revolutionised other industries had previously failed to touch this sector – until now.”

“Because our site is free, it allows users to truly interact with each other. This means we can facilitate an online community where holidaymakers can pass on important feedback or send property enquiries direct to the owner”

Their plans for growth don’t stop here as they are well on their way towards achieving a target of acquiring 100,000 properties by the end of their first year, increasing to 500,000 in year three. Such growth would firmly position them as industry leaders in the holiday homes market.

Company Director Andrew Gibson believes that in the current economical climate, their offer of free advertising for holiday home owners whose rental income is arguably more vital than ever, has been key to their success so far.

He said: “We knew the site would be popular but we’ve been bowled over by the thousands of holiday home owners who’ve already uploaded their property details in just a few short weeks.

“I decided to launch the website with my business partner after trying to rent my own holiday home in Florida. As a holiday home owner myself, I understand what users want from such a service and I think our fresh approach to the industry will continue to appeal worldwide.”

With recent consumer trends indicating that holidaymakers are seeking more affordable holiday options, demand for holiday home rentals both in the UK and abroad has increased dramatically in recent months.

He continues: “Holiday home owners want to make the most out of the current buoyant market and are becoming all the more savvy when choosing how to market their property.

“We’ve recognised this fact and are very confident that our free model will lead the market with the website being a one-stop-shop for online holiday home rentals.”

The site also caters for those looking for more than just a beach from their holiday, with recommended properties for activities including fishing, scuba diving, golf, ski and wine tasting.

Destination blogs and online visitors’ books allow guests to place their own reviews and recommendations for properties and locations featured on the site.

Andrew added: “Through our activity pages, blogs and online guest book, we aim to give consumers as much information as possible to help them book the holiday that’s right for them.”

For more information visit Directholidaybookings.co.uk.