Isle of Man firm MiQuando, who operates the official Isle of Man Homestay Scheme on behalf of the Department for Enterprise, is welcoming applications from Island residents looking to register their properties for TT 2020 and beyond.
The Homestay Scheme provides an opportunity for households to host paying visitors for the TT and Festival of Motorcycling. During the TT period ‘Homestay Hosts’ can earn up to £1,800 tax free income. Households who do not register will not have access to the tax free limit. In addition, registered hosts will have access to the Department’s Public Liability insurance.
Rob Callister MHK, Political Member with responsibility for Visit Isle of Man and motorsport, commented:
‘This year has proven to be a very busy and successful year for the TT Races with the Department for Enterprise’s annual visitor survey highlighting a 4% increase on the estimated number of visitors in 2018, the highest figure since the survey began in 2010. It’s fantastic to see parallel to this a 10% increase in registered Homestay properties to accommodate the growing list of visitors seeking alternative accommodation.
‘The provision of good quality alternative accommodation, which supports the current serviced and non-serviced offering during these peak periods of demand, is vital if we are to continue to attract more visitors to the TT Races and Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling.
‘With race fans already searching for and booking accommodation for 2020, we strongly urge those considering it for next year to register as soon as possible to allow time for the registration process and secure bookings early.’
Any household looking to offer Homestay during the periods must be registered. Registration is quick and easy, with fees starting from £40.00 per year for a 2-Year registration.
Copies of the Homestay Hosts’ information pack and registration form are available to download from the hosts section of the Official Homestay website www.iomhomestay.com, or a copy can be requested from the Homestay Team by emailing hosts@iomhomestay.com or telephoning +44 1624 640393.
The Department wishes to remind all Island homeowners that it is illegal to provide accommodation to paying guests, unless you are registered with Visit Isle of Man or registered on the Homestay Scheme (only valid for TT and Festival of Motorcycling).
