The Italian Bed and Breakfast Association has come up with a novel way to allow cash strapped consumers a chance to enjoy a break away from home.

Settimana del Barrato, or Barter Week, encourages guests to barter for accommodation rather than paying. Introduced in 2009, the first event was so successful (some12 000 fans registered to participate) that it was repeated from 15 to 21 November this year. So successful, in fact, that some B&B members of the organization continue to offer barter arrangements throughout the year.

Last year, the most commonly made payment arrangements were reportedly accommodation swaps, live music performances and website translations.

This is one innovative idea that could easily be embraced all over the world, including South Africa.

Website: www.settimanadelbaratto.it
Source: www.springwise.com