11 years
I would say go for it but be assured this is no easy life and it is not for the faint hearted, its hard work but nun the less great fun, our franchisees will vouch for that as they have all come from outside of this industry and are running their own profitable businesses. Where ever you choose to set up shop do all your research before you leave the UK, from the embassy of your chosen destination you can gain information such as:
your individual employment and tax rules
Company taxation
Company formation and ownership
Employment rights of staff
Visa and work permits
Foreign ownership rules
Lease and land ownership rules
Licences and certifications required including their duration and costs
Tourist board for size of market and possible No of competitors, future projected tourist No's, low and high seasons.
Are there any government help at a local or national level?
What state benefit systems are there (if you pay tax you may be able to claim some sort of medical benefit)
You can also conduct your own research into.
How does the move affect any rights you have on benefits in the UK (e.g. UK state pension)
Double taxation if you are not a resident of your next country
Costs of medical insurance.
No competitors in the local area of your choice along with their USP and charges
Build/conversion costs for a hostel or the expected lease costs per metre.
Contact the existing hostel groups in the country of choice to see if they have a franchise opportunity
What makes for a good hostel?
Marketing costs
How will you attract guests?
What front of desk system will you employ?
What will your USP be?
How long have your competitors been trading?
This is not a complete list but as you can see there is a lot to be gleaned long before you step into that airplane.
I hope this helps
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