what do you think of this idea?

[HJ]

The national tourist boards already run "Cyclists Welcome" accreditation schemes which lay out the facilities you need to offer, then you get to display the "Cyclists Welcome" logo

 

[Moodyman]

As others have said, the most business you'll get is from touring cyclists who are likley to be thrifty rather than big spenders. Providing basic amenities for modest cost is more appealing than fancy Garmin devices.

Again, you'll be better off targeting a more outdoorsy genre of people rather than limiting yourself to cyclists.

Oh and good luck.

 

[hubbike]

I think hubbike's post sums up the challenge you would face in specialising in the cyclist market:

considerable discount ... free to use ... a lower price ... Free internet ... Free ice water, and hot water for drinks ... free shampoo, soap and towels provided

It's not that all cyclists are cheap, but it is representative of a very sizeable slice of the market.

Yep. I think I'm not alone in being a cheapskate. thats why I head off with everything I need on my bike rather than just a road bike and a credit card. This is "Touring and Expedition" not "Fat Wallets and Lycra".

But what I was trying to describe was my "perfect" hostal...you could pick and mix but if you keep adding on extra charges all over the place people won't like it...

here is what I missed the first time...

11. Camping outside, but still with access to the kitchen/common areas.
12. Bike storage. Every hostel/b&b I've ever been to has provided this so its not a big deal.
13. Drying room.
14. Foolproof directions, address, and co-ords on the website so I can find you. Some websites are appaling at this. (never underestimate the ingenuity of fools)
15. Weather forcast up on a pin-board every morning.
16. Packed lunch and flask filling service. (from the cyclists welcome page...I like it!!)
17. Fishing....(I'm not so bothered but if its a free lunch why the hell not?!)
18. Maybe a film night each friday, or a barbeque, or an inspirational talk, or a musician...At very least a TV room with 1000s of DVDs.
19. Box of games, footballs, poi, frisbees, stilts, skipping ropes. Guitar with headphone amp (nice and quiet), electronic drum kit with pads (silent),
20. Maybe a stretching session with a coach after breakfast. It is so easy not to bother on your own, but it really helps.


Jay Clock, just seen your post, am I wasting my time/thoughts?

 

[jay clock]

Jay Clock, just seen your post, am I wasting my time/thoughts?

my guess would be yes. An interesting read nonetheless. But the OP is hardly hanging on our every word....

 

[HJ]

hubbike there is nothing wrong with credit card touring, we are not all sandal wearing weirdos, you know

 

[jay clock]

still no response from JimmyJay.... I emailed him/her yday as well. It does hack me off.....