The government is launching an online booking system for ’activity and attraction’ companies.

They can try out the system for 12 months for free.

It is designed to make it easier for potential visitors to search and book activities.

Registered providers get their own online profile on the MiQuando online business directory, which will act as a micro website where details such as opening times, prices and availability.

Rob Callister MHK, political member with responsibility for the government’s tourism agency, Visit Isle of Man, said: ’It is imperative that we all use this time to make preparations so we can make the most of the expected demand for UK domestic staycations when our borders open.

benefits

’Implementing an online booking system can provide substantial benefits including allowing businesses to receive bookings 24/7 and helping to make booking processes more efficient by minimising the time spent processing manual bookings, including returning phone calls and responding to multiple social media messages.

’Now more than ever it is important for businesses to avoid lost income through "no shows". An online system with upfront payments can help to prevent this and will provide extra comfort for business owners’.

Angela Byrne, head of Visit Isle of Man, said: ’Representing 32% of the Isle of Man’s total visitor numbers in 2018, visiting friends and relatives remain a key focus for Visit Isle of Man.

’We hope that by providing a straightforward "one-stop shop" booking system that our residents will take the opportunity to explore all the island has to offer and pass on their recommendations, in turn providing a greater opportunity to increase visitor spend from an upsurge in bookings.’

Full training will be provided to all registered businesses.

Further support can also be sought via phone, email, social media or in person with a member of the MiQuando team between 9am and 5.30pm on Mondays and Fridays.