Consider yourself a whizz in the kitchen?
by Kelly Henderson (follow Kelly on Twitter: @kellythekiwi)
EatWith is an online platform that was originally established to connect tourists with locals. It gave them the chance to dine in people’s houses – a way of avoiding the tourist trap restaurants of major cities.
Why should I be an EatWith host?
Hosting gives you the opportunity to share your home with new and interesting people; show off your culinary expertise while preparing your favourite dishes; and supplement your income.
How does it work?
If you want to become a host you need to create a host profile and then post your event (called an offering). The better the offering is, the more interest you will receive from potential guests. Examples online at the moment include a pasta making class, traditional Spanish cooking and a six course dinner. When the date arrives simply create your culinary masterpiece and enjoy your evening.
Eatwith Homepage
What about payment?
When you create your offering, you also need to decide on a price to charge your guests – this money will be put into your account within 24 hours of the event taking place.
It is up to you to decide how much to charge your guests. Keep in mind a couple of things:
- Guests are being charged a 15% service charge by EatWith
- The payment should cover your expenses
- After the event a guest will leave feedback online. The more positive reviews you have, the better your reputation will be and the more you will be able to charge.
Is it safe?
Call me crazy, but the idea of complete strangers turning up on my doorstep for dinner is a little worrying. Don’t let this put you off though – EatWith have got you covered.
- Hosts are protected by the EatWith Guarantee. This means that hosts are covered to the value of $1,000,000 in case of an incident taking place at the event.
- You have the right to accept or decline guests once they have responded to your offering. To get an idea of what a person is like you can search the use profiles online and read what other hosts and guests have said about potential diners. If you don’t like the look of somebody you don’t have to have them in your house.
As a host, you should aim to become EatWith verified. This means that an EatWith representative has eaten at your house and would recommend you to other users.
Become a host with eatwith
Whilst I am not sure that I will be entertaining anytime soon, EatWith has definitely made me think more about what I would like to eat next time I travel. If you are a keen chef who wants to showcase your talents and prepare your favourite meals for hungry guests then find out more on the website.
Share your Tips with Kelly at kelly@brokeinlondon.com.
Find more Super Tips.
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You may also want to check how to Become a Mystery Diner and get paid to eat out
