What is a homestay? Everything you need to know

When you arrive at a homestay, you'll be welcomed as a guest into the home of a local host or family. Unlike a hotel or a rented apartment, a homestay offers a more personal and immersive experience. You’ll typically have a private bedroom, but may share other living spaces such as the kitchen, living room, or bathroom,with your hosts. 

It's a great way to gain a genuine feel for the local culture and way of life, as you're essentially stepping into someone's daily routine. The level of interaction can vary, with some hosts sharing meals with you, while others are simply on hand to offer local recommendations.

Homestays are an ideal option for a wide range of travelers. They’re a good fit whether you’re a solo traveler looking for a bit of company and local guidance, or a student heading abroad for language courses or studies. Even couples or small families looking for a more personal and often cheaper alternative to traditional accommodation can find suitable homestay options. The main thing is being open to chatting with your hosts and experiencing how they live. If you're naturally curious, respectful, and keen to learn, then a homestay could be a great choice for you.

A homestay offers many perks that can make your trip extra special. From gaining insider knowledge and making real connections to enjoying a more authentic and budget-friendly trip, the advantages go far beyond just having a place to sleep.

1. Gaining local insights

Your hosts are your personal guides to the area you’re staying in. They can point you towards the best cafés that aren’t in the guidebooks, the quickest way to get to a secluded beach or which local markets are worth a visit. This kind of insider knowledge is invaluable and can lead you to experiences you may otherwise never have discovered.

2. Meeting new people

The advantages of a homestay is the opportunity to connect with people. You’ll have the chance to chat with your hosts and maybe meet their family or neighbors too. For many travelers, these friendly encounters are the moments that make a trip unique and memorable, offering a deeper connection than other types of accommodation. 

3. Cost effectiveness

Generally speaking, homestays can be a more affordable option compared to hotels, particularly for longer stays. The price will often include breakfast, and some hosts may offer additional meals at an extra cost. This can result in considerable savings on dining out, and you may also have access to a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.

4. Perfect for solo travel

With hosts nearby, you have a natural sense of security and a friendly point of contact whenever you need one – whether that’s practical advice, local recommendations, or a helping hand should any issues arise. That warm and welcoming presence can make independent travel feel far less daunting, and far more connected to the destination you are exploring.

5. Cultural exchange

For true cultural immersion, consider a homestay. It transforms your travel experience from just observing to actively participating in local daily life. You'll gain authentic insights, whether by learning local phrases over dinner, picking up customs from your hosts, enjoying home-cooked meals, or joining in community celebrations.

6. Unique experience each time

Every host and home is unique, so each homestay offers a glimpse into local life, whether in a vibrant city apartment or a tranquil countryside cottage. 

7. A “home away from home”

One of the key benefits of a homestay is feeling welcomed into someone's home. This can be comforting, especially when you're far from home or in the middle of a long trip. A cozy room, good conversation, and a homely atmosphere can completely change the way you experience travel.

Research the location

Consider which area best suits your trip, whether a central location for easy access to attractions or a quiet residential neighborhood for a local experience. Researching transport links and area information will help you identify the most suitable base and enhance your overall stay.

Read reviews and ratings

Previous guests often share detailed feedback about their experiences, from room cleanliness and the host’s hospitality to the accuracy of the listing. It’s wise to pay attention to recurring comments, both positive and negative, and look for reviews that resonate with your own travel style and priorities.

Check for cultural compatibility

It's worth thinking about the kind of household you'll be joining. Some travelers might be looking for a lively family atmosphere, while others prefer a quieter environment, perhaps with a single host. Listings often give clues about the hosts' interests or general lifestyle, which can help you get a sense of whether it’ll be a good fit for you. Being open to cultural differences and ready to adapt is also an important part of making a homestay work well for everyone.

Understand the house rules

Every home has its own way of doing things, and homestays are no different. Hosts will usually list any specific house rules, which may include quiet hours, guest policies, smoking rules, or kitchen usage. It’s a good idea to read these carefully before you book and make sure you feel comfortable with them.

Check what’s included

It’s useful to see what facilities are included as part of the homestay. This might include breakfast, Wifi access, or use of a washing machine  Knowing these details upfront will make it much easier to compare different homestays and choose one that suits your needs. If anything in the listing is unclear, you can send a message to the host to ask for more information.

Be aware of safety features

Make sure to check the safety features available.  This could include things like smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, or information about a first aid kit. Knowing what safety measures are in place can provide extra peace of mind.

Take note of payment and cancellation policies

Before you confirm your booking, make sure you understand the payment process and the cancellation policy. Sometimes plans need to change, so it’s good to know what your options are. Different homestays will have different policies, so be sure to read the terms and conditions.

Be considerate of house rules

A homestay offers a unique opportunity to experience local life and connect with a host in a way that is different to a traditional hotel. Just like you would practice hotel etiquette, a homestay comes with its own set of rules. Staying in someone else’s home means embracing some differences and appreciating the character and individuality of a private home, where the experience may feel more personal than a hotel. 

Length of your stay

The ideal homestay experience depends greatly on the length of your visit. For short stays, convenience is often a priority, so factors such as location, transportation links, and access to local attractions may be the most important considerations. For longer stays, practical features such as kitchen facilities, laundry access, and a workspace may become more important. Choosing a homestay that suits your needs will help ensure a comfortable stay.

Communication with your host

Clear communication is key. Before arrival, share important details such as your expected arrival, time preferences, and any requirements. During your stay, don’t hesitate to ask questions or discuss any concerns with your host.

Respect and courtesy

A homestay means becoming a guest in someone else’s home. Respecting your host’s space, privacy, routines, and house rules is important. Simple acts of courtesy such as keeping shared areas tidy, being mindful of noise levels, and showing appreciation can help foster a positive relationship with your hosts.

Packing accordingly

Since you're staying in a home, you might not find all the little extras you sometimes get in a hotel, like travel-sized toiletries. It's a good idea to pack your own essentials. Also, consider if you need things like a plug adapter for your electronics. You could bring a small gift for your hosts as a nice gesture. 

You can find a wide selection of homestay options on Booking.com. To find these unique accommodation types, search for your destination and then apply the “property type” filter. The “homestays” category will be shown as an option if they’re available in your chosen location. This will allow you to easily browse and compare different homestay listings, read reviews from other travelers, and find an option that fits your needs. 

Each listing on Booking.com offers detailed descriptions, photos, information about the host and a list of facilities, making sure you have plenty of details to help decide on your perfect homestay vacation.