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A More Open-Minded Generation

The internet is drastically reshaping and transforming our cultures, values and the very essence of how we live. The younger 'Net Generation', as they are called, is constantly presented with new ways and opportunities to interact and communicate with each other. A continuous onslaught of new Web 2.0 type technologies are flattening the globe and opening up the playing field, making for a much more diversified environment.

So, what does this mean for business?

For starters, there is huge potential to capture this hunger for social interaction, as evidenced by the internet juggernauts who pave new ground everyday in the name of social networking. It seems to me that anyone who hasn't heard of Facebook or Twitter by now is not entirely in touch with reality.

iStopOver takes this model of online communication and bridges it with real world interaction.

We believe that renting a room from like-minded individuals is a fantastic way to take these new connections from the online world to the off-line world. Actually meeting face-to-face and being able to share stories, ideas and an 'extra bed' is a very exciting concept.

There are pitfalls to avoid, of course. The generation gap means that although the net generation is a little bit more comfortable meeting new people and developing new relationships, baby boomers are still struggling to catch up. It will come, with time. For now, those who are ready to take advantage of this new, more open-minded and technologically-savvy society are in a position of strength. As novel ways of making meaningful connections begin to emerge, so to do questions about how to capitalize on them. Our answer is to bring connections from the online world and turn them into something real and tangible - all through that spare room in your home!

We think it can work, so hop aboard and join us for the ride.

-Brett, Marketing Intern

iStopOver in the Press: CBC News

iStopOver for Office Rentals was mentioned recently in an article on CBC News' website.

 

 

Here's an excerpt:

"...those looking for space have been equally positive about the idea, from global recruiting companies to small professional firms looking to set up branch offices on a shoestring budget to interview customers, hold meetings while in a specific location or get back on their feet financially."

Click here to read the full article, 'Entrepreneurs get the big corporate look on a small budget' »

Best Travel Photo Contest on Facebook

Starting TODAY we are hosting a contest on Facebook to determine who has the Best Travel Photo!

Click Here: http://www.istopover.com/facebook

We have some Great Prizes to give away, including FREE Accommodation from iStopOver.com and iTunes Gift Certificates.

It's simple to participate, just join the group and upload up to 3 *travel related* photos with you in the photo.

Get your friends to VOTE by clicking the word 'Like' below your photo.  It's that simple! So find your best photos and spread the word!

Cheers!!

New Feature: Share Facebook Information with Prospective Guests and Hosts

We are thrilled to introduce our new Facebook Connect feature that lets members share selected pieces of information from their Facebook profile with desired members.  We want to make the booking process as easy as possible and feel that sharing information about yourselves really helps in building the level of trust between you and prospective Guests or Hosts.  The service is the first of its kind on a website such as ours and we believe it will really strengthen the authenticity of our listings.  

So many times we've heard complaints about Craigslist and similar classified websites, that there is just no way to get to know the person behind the listing.  Our solution is to bridge the gap between our online presence in social networks with who we are in the real world, where the act of 'stopping over' takes place.  Our first installment in this effort is with Facebook, but we will be incorporating many more of the popular networks, such as LinkedIn, in the near future.  

Nothing is More Important in a Technology Company Than Technology That Works Really Well

iStopOver is receiving extremely positive feedback as it is being used more and more. One of the lessons we have learned over many years of making software is how to create solid technology. Solid technology means a website with technology that works really well. It means that we understand all aspects such as security, scalability and privacy.

It also means that we know that the process is dynamic – the site will mature as we receive more feedback and learn what our customers, hosts and guests, really want in a site like ours.

The site is built using sophisticated tools (in our case with Ruby on Rails), which means that we are able to be flexible, expanding capabilities without redesigns or re-launches.

The net positive is that you will see dynamic changes in the site often and the transition will be seamless.