We began Getaway Earth because we saw a gap in a crowded market for a site that stands out both visually and functionally. In our view the current market is full of sites that tend to look, feel and operate much like each other, leaving renters and owners like us with a forgettable experience.
In today's fast paced world holidaymakers make judgments in a split second, usually visually. They also have a huge range of accommodation options to choose from. So we felt it was important to create a holiday rental website that grabs the holidaymaker's attention. That clearly starts with visual first impressions, with large photos and well designed pages.
But the holidaymaker moves quickly beyond visual first impressions! They quickly scan for good, informative content. So we built in a number of tools for owners to fill the pages with as much relevant information as possible, including links out to their Facebook pages, Twitter feeds, Pinterest boards, videos, local points of interest, calendars, and more.
All of this necessarily means we need owners that care about presenting their holiday homes in the most professional and attractive way. Without that investment from the owners we have nothing. As such we work with our owners, giving them feedback and advice during the listing process, recognising that this upfront time investment is crucial for the idea to become reality.
The site was founded by Andy and Joe, two guys who have traveled the world and understand what a holidaymaker wants. Andy grew up on a strict diet of self catering holidays and now, as a husband and parent of two kids, has continued the tradition, understanding how much more flexible and relaxing a holiday home is over a hotel when you have a family!
In early 2012 Charles joined the team, bringing with him more than 15 years experience in senior travel positions at Accor, Orient-Express, and Pansea Hotels and Resorts.
We've also been fortunate to have a great friend and web developer: Len, who owns [Numena Web Design and Development]. Together with his help we were able to turn this dream into reality. The result is (we hope) a website that jumps off the page visually but, critically, retains strong function.
We love feedback. It helps us to fine tune. We're not perfect and need your honesty! Please do contact us with any comments or suggestions. We also don't mind the odd words of encouragement!