2010 host families 'to coin it'

Johannesburg - South African families can earn up to R360 000 by hosting tourists during the 2010 World Cup, says Tour Africa.

The tour operator has launched a service to link up international visitors with local host families.

"Not only will foreign soccer fans enjoy a truly authentic view of the country, its people, its food, and its culture by staying with a South African family, but they will be transported to and from the airport and ticketed games," said Tour Africa co-founder Quintin Vosloo.

The host families will be screened and audited by the leading verification company SGS.

As much as R360 000 can be earned during the World Cup period, Tour Africa said in a statement.

Fears are growing about the lack of accommodation available for the football event. Some 450 000 visitors are expected to come to South Africa for the World Cup.

Last month, Danny Jordaan, head of the 2010 Fifa World Cup Local Organising Committee, said South Africa still needs 200 000 beds to accommodate soccer tourists.

"We must find 200 000 beds. If there is more accommodation available that we don't know about, we would like to hear about it, because we need more beds."

Tour Africa has warned consumers against unlawful homestay agencies and service.

Many individuals have unfortunately already been duped by false promises, says fellow Tour Africa Now co-founder Craig Greer.

Greer advises that interested homeowners consider only established service providers that are certified and based locally.

- Fin24.com