Bucko's Bucks - Is there a price to avoid loneliness?

Scott Rosenbaum has thousands of people available to keep you company -- for a price. But he's no pimp, and his website, RentAFriend.com, is no escort service. Pay $24.95 a month (or $69.95 a year) to become a member, and you get to choose from a vast menu of "friends" with whom you can play Parcheesi, go to the movies, or perhaps use as a fake relative. Almost anything, as long as it doesn't involve sex.

While some may think it sad that people are willing to pay for the most basic human companionship, Rosenbaum views it as an underserved niche and a promising business opportunity. He thinks of his venture as the antidote to dating and sex sites. ""It's about platonic friendship. There's a complete void in that market."

As for the hourly rates, the RentAFriends settle the terms on their own with paid members -- fees generally range from $10 to $150 an hour -- and they keep the cash for services rendered. It's an odd way to make money, but for some RentAFriends it's enjoyable work.

So, while I find it sad that we are resorting to finding and paying for friends, is there anywhere but America that such a service can take off? 

Chess Anyone :o)

Source

Rent-a-Friend Here :o)