Silvio and his wife Julia started the very first casa particular in Cuba – before the government even started regulating what is now classified as a "casa particular." They credit their initial success to Silvio's efforts in converting his fathers 1929 Ford Model T into a taxi for tourists to earn additional money. A passenger asked if a group can stay in their dilapidated house,which they scrambled to fix up, to host their very first guest. They are a dynamic duo, and hosting for them is more than a source of income,it’s a passion. Hosting has given them the opportunity to totally restore a stunning “mansion” located in Havana. They’ve really perfected the art of hosting, and even have staff that helps with meal preparation, or guest arrivals/departures,etc. Growth for their commerce has meant that they are able to supply employment to others, thus having a meaningful impact on everyday Cubans. Check out my video interview with Julia & Silvio and Airbnb's Latin America General Manager Jordi Torres from Paris at the Airbnb Open. Julia and Silvio's listing https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5623904
Source: cnn.com