"...However, relatively few recently established businesses have progressed beyond a small, familiar circle of guests. Perhaps the most ambitious and innovative undertaking so far is that of ByT Argentina. Launched in 1998, it began as a small business catering to the needs of US students coming to Buenos Aires to learn Spanish. Today, it is one of the largest players in the market with the unique aim of providing each of its customers with a full cultural experience. “If you live in a flat, you meet the porter, the neighbours... it’s a great way to get to know a particular barrio and live like a local”, explains Pablo Blay.

In response to repeated requests from his guests, Blay set up a travel component to the business in 2000. This added a new dimension to the concept of a cultural experience and has been hugely successful — it already represents more than a third of the company’s business. Other companies have been slow to follow this initiative of offering other tourist services alongside apartment rental. Nevertheless, this is a trend that is certain to become more widespread in years to come — agencies who repeatedly find their guests asking for advice on topics like travel and Spanish classes will soon realize the business potential this offers..."