Why We’re Starting @Getawayze

At 28, I’ve had the privilege of exploring and working across Canada, with a deep connection to the beauty of the East Coast—Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, in particular. Growing up, hard work was my foundation. From construction and drywall to insulation and tree removal, I learned the value of grit and determination. But the grind of commuting eventually pushed me to seek a different path. I transitioned to a remote role with Apple, which gave me the flexibility to pursue my passions without being tied to a daily slog.

My love for technology was sparked early on. I pursued computer programming in college, though financial constraints forced me to step away before completing my degree. That setback didn’t dim my enthusiasm for tech—it only fueled my drive to innovate in my own way. That’s where @Getawayze comes in, a project born from a blend of personal experience, a love for travel, and a vision for something better.

The inspiration for @Getawayze stems from my admiration for Airbnb. I’ve always been impressed by their platform—how it connects travelers with unique stays and fosters a sense of adventure. But I saw an opportunity to take that concept further, to create something that prioritizes community, affordability, and meaningful experiences. @Getawayze isn’t just about booking a place to stay; it’s about curating exceptional services and experiences that make every trip unforgettable.

When I first conceptualized @Getawayze, I envisioned a platform that pairs unique accommodations with tailored services—think guided local tours, wellness retreats, or curated dining experiences. A few months after fleshing out this idea, I noticed Airbnb had rebranded and started offering similar services. At first, it felt like a gut punch—had our idea already been scooped? But the more I reflected, the more it lit a fire under me. If a giant like Airbnb was moving in this direction, it validated the vision even further. There’s room for innovation, and @Getawayze is here to carve out its own path.

What sets @Getawayze apart is our commitment to eliminating the financial barriers that often come with booking platforms. Traditional platforms like Airbnb charge hosts a fee—typically around 3%—and guests face service fees that can climb as high as 15%. For a $1,000-per-night rental booked for seven days, that’s $210 in host fees and $1,050 in guest fees. That’s $1,260 in total fees, money that could be better spent on local experiences, dining, or even extending a trip. At Getawayze, we’re doing things differently: zero host fees, zero guest fees. That same $1,000-per-night rental for seven days costs exactly what it says—$7,000—with no hidden costs. Hosts keep every dollar they earn, and guests save hundreds, if not thousands, to reinvest in their travel experiences or local communities.

Our mission is simple: empower homeowners and travelers by putting more money back in their pockets. By eliminating fees, we’re not just making travel more affordable; we’re fostering a model that encourages spending within local economies.

Imagine travelers using those savings to book a kayak tour with a local guide, dine at a family-owned restaurant, or shop at a nearby artisan market. For hosts, it means keeping the full value of their rental income to reinvest in their properties or communities. We believe this approach will spark new opportunities—partnerships with local businesses, collaborations with experience providers, and a travel ecosystem that prioritizes connection over profit.

@Getawayze is more than a booking platform; it’s a movement to rethink how we travel, share spaces, and build community. We’re starting with a bold vision and a commitment to fairness, affordability, and unforgettable experiences. As we grow, we’re excited to partner with hosts, travelers, and local businesses to create a platform that doesn’t just facilitate travel—it transforms it.

Join us on this journey. Let’s make travel better, together.

Although not finished yet, we will provide a temporary link you can view the project in its current state.

This reminds me a lot from school where sometimes I didn't make the deadline but still had to hand in my work anyway.

Thanks @EricSimons and the entire @boltdotnew team.

I got a lot more done than I thought for @Getawayze

Bolt feels like a different beast than it was a few months ago

In January, I got a quote to develop an app at around 50k

I'm gonna try to build it myself or die trying

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