I used to think a fluffy bathrobe and a breakfast buffet were the pinnacle of travel comfort. That was until I found myself dancing at a stranger’s wedding in Tanzania, sharing a pot of homemade stew in Sierra Leone, and riding shotgun with a wildlife vet in South Africa – all thanks to homestays. If you’ve ever woken up in a cookie-cutter hotel room and momentarily forgotten which country you’re in, it might be time to ditch the international hotel and opt for a homestay. Trust me, swapping the sterile sameness of hotel chains for the authentic chaos of someone’s home is the best travel decision you’ll ever make.

Staying in a homestay is like getting a backstage pass to the destination you’re visiting. Instead of hovering on the fringes as a tourist, you become a temporary local. You sip chai in a family’s kitchen, tag along to neighbourhood gatherings, and get front-row seats to real life in a foreign place. Sure, you may have to sacrifice the mini shampoo bottles and the perfectly tucked bedsheets, but what you get in return is far more valuable: real connections, cultural immersion, and unexpected adventures that no five-star hotel concierge could ever arrange.

In this guide, I’ll share why travellers should skip those impersonal international hotels in favour of homestays, what exactly a homestay experience entails, and how it can transform your travels. I’ll even spill some of my wildest homestay stories – from nearly fleeing what I thought was a sketchy house in Denver (spoiler: it turned out great) to joining a bible studies group in Florida. By the end, you’ll see why homestays aren’t just accommodations; they’re the heart and soul of travel. Ready to step off the beaten path and right into someone’s living room? Let’s dive in.

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What is a Homestay?

A homestay is not your typical accommodation – it’s a travel experience wrapped in a house-shaped package. In the simplest terms, a homestay means staying in someone’s home as their guest, usually for a fee (though sometimes for free in hospitality exchanges). Unlike a hotel, where you’re one of hundreds of anonymous guests, a homestay makes you part of a local household, if only for a few days. It could be a spare room in a family’s apartment, a cottage in the backyard of a retired couple’s home, or a floor of someone’s home turned into a guest space. What sets a homestay apart is the personal touch: you’re not just renting a room; you’re joining a household.

Homestay vs. Hotel vs. Hostel

The differences are stark. In a hotel, you get privacy, little soaps, and maybe a chocolate on your pillow – but also a fairly generic experience that could be plopped anywhere on the globe. A hostel gives a social atmosphere with other travellers, but you’re still outsiders in the local community (and you might have to fight for the last pancake at breakfast). A homestay, however, offers the best of both worlds: a chance to meet locals, enjoy home-cooked meals, and learn about the culture first-hand, all while having a place to lay your head. It’s like staying with a friend-of-a-friend, even if you start as strangers.

The beauty of a homestay is the personal touch of staying with locals. Your host might greet you with a cup of tea and genuine curiosity about your journey. They might introduce you to their friends, take you to the local market, or teach you how to cook a traditional dish. Instead of a perfunctory “Have a nice day” from hotel staff, you get heartfelt conversations and insider tips that guide your adventure. Expect the unexpected: you could end up in a family photo, invited to a community event, or simply chatting late into the night about life, politics, and the best place to get street food in town. Homestays turn travel into a deeply human experience.

Why Homestays are the Most Sustainable Choice

Choosing a homestay isn’t just great for you – it’s great for the planet and the people you visit. In an age of overtourism and cookie-cutter resorts, homestays are a breath of fresh, sustainable air. Here’s why homestays are often the most eco-friendly and community-friendly choice:

Supporting Local Families and Communities

When you pay for a homestay, you’re directly supporting a local family, not padding the profits of a multinational hotel chain. Your money goes toward your host’s groceries, kids’ school fees, or maintaining that charming old house you’re staying in. It’s community-based tourism at its finest – travel dollars flowing straight into local neighbourhoods. In small communities, a homestay can create jobs and support other local businesses (think of the neighbourhood bakery where your host buys your breakfast croissants). You’re helping real people, not CEOs, and that feels pretty darn good.

Environmental Benefits

Homestays tend to have a lighter environmental footprint compared to massive hotels. Big hotels light up hundreds of rooms, wash countless sheets and towels daily, and often have wasteful all-you-can-eat buffets. In a homestay, you’re using resources more mindfully – maybe sharing the family’s utilities, eating portioned home-cooked meals, and generating far less waste. Many homestay hosts are conscious about their environment too, often using local produce and sustainable practices because it’s their home, not just a business. Plus, repurposing an existing home for tourism avoids the need for new construction and all the environmental costs that come with it.

Authentic, Slow Travel Experiences

Homestays encourage you to slow down and immerse yourself in the place, which is a sustainability win in the cultural sense. Instead of blitzing through tourist sites and retreating to a sterile hotel, you spend time getting to know your hosts and their way of life. This kind of travel fosters understanding and respect for local culture – you become more than a visitor; you become a temporary community member. When you engage with locals, you’re more likely to care about the community’s well-being and environment. It’s a virtuous cycle: the experience makes you a more mindful traveller, and your presence (and money) benefits the community in return.

In short, homestays align with the ethos of sustainable travel: they are low-impact, support local livelihoods, and promote cultural exchange. It’s travel that’s as good for your soul as it is for the world around you.

My Favourite Homestay Experiences

One of the best ways to show the magic of homestays is through real stories. Over years of travel, I’ve racked up a collection of homestay adventures that no hotel stay could ever match. Here are some of my favourite homestay experiences, each one a testament to the surprises and delights of living with locals:

Tanzania: The Time I Crashed a Wedding (Sort Of)

It was just another quiet evening in Tanzania—me, my laptop, and my slightly disastrous hair, settling in for a night of work. I was in full “I’m-not-leaving-the-house” mode, which meant scruffy clothes, bare feet, and no real intention of seeing another human until morning. That’s when my homestay host knocked on my door with a casual, “Hey, do you want to come to a party?”

Now, you don’t say no to spontaneous adventure, so I did what any self-respecting traveller would do: I threw on some makeup, grabbed the cleanest top I could find, and hoped no one would notice that my “party-ready” effort was essentially just swapping out pyjama pants for jeans.

It wasn’t until we arrived that I realised two critical things:

1. This was not just a casual party. It was a wedding reception.

2. I was the only person not in a ballgown.

I don’t mean I was slightly underdressed. I mean, I looked like I had wandered in from the parking lot while everyone else looked like royalty. Layers of sequined fabrics swirled around me as women in extravagant gowns and headpieces glided across the room. I, in my jeans and hastily salvaged hair, stood out like an uninvited extra in a red carpet event. Oh, and did I mention? I was also the only muzungu in the room.

I have never felt so many eyes on me in my life. The entire reception hall seemed to collectively pause to take in the unexpected guest—somewhere between “Who is she?” and “Did she get lost?”

Please Earth, Swallow Me!

To make things even better (or worse, depending on how you look at it), at Tanzanian weddings, people dance. Not just a casual sway or polite head nod. No. Full-on rhythmic, coordinated, joyful movement. Tanzanians can dance—effortlessly, beautifully, and in sync. I, on the other hand, dance like a malfunctioning wind-up toy. And yet, there I was, being pulled onto the dance floor, trying to blend in (as if that were possible).

At this point, I started panicking about the actual bride. Surely, she wouldn’t be thrilled about a random muzungu crashing her wedding? Was I about to be the reason she side-eyed her guest list forever? But I quickly learned that in Tanzanian wedding culture, invites are given to families, not individuals—and it’s considered better to fill an invitation slot than leave it empty. My host had been given two invitations, but since her husband was out of town, she figured, “Why waste the extra spot?” And that’s how I ended up being her plus-one at a wedding where I knew no one.

But here’s the thing: I had an absolute blast.

Despite my awkwardness, despite the stares, and despite the fact that I looked like I’d shown up to fix the WiFi rather than celebrate a marriage, people welcomed me with open arms. I met some incredibly warm and wonderful people who, instead of questioning my presence, made sure I was fed, included, and having a good time. By the end of the night, I had danced (poorly), laughed (a lot), and learned that sometimes, the best experiences happen when you say yes before you have time to overthink.

And if nothing else, I can now say I’ve crashed a wedding in Tanzania—just, you know, by invitation.

Florida: Accidentally Joining Bible Club

When my Florida homestay host messaged me to ask what time I’d be arriving, I figured it was just standard logistics. But then came the follow-up:

“Perfect timing! Just in time for Bible study—would you like to join?”

Now, to put things into perspective, I am not religious. I can probably count on one hand the number of times I’ve set foot in a church that wasn’t for a wedding, funeral, or christening. But I also firmly believe that saying yes to unexpected invitations is how you get the best travel experiences. And if there’s one thing I love, it’s getting an inside look at local life.

So, in the spirit of cultural immersion (and mild curiosity), I said yes.

I arrived to find about 15 people gathered in the living room, each with a Bible in hand. As it turned out, this was basically Bible Book Club. Everyone had pre-read a passage and was now sharing what it meant to them. Meanwhile, I had done exactly zero preparation and was about to be very obviously outed as someone who had never attended a Bible study in her life.

Not one to be caught unprepared, I hastily skimmed the passage, hoping to come up with at least one vaguely insightful comment.

Luckily, the whole thing was surprisingly relaxed. There were a few deep discussions, some reflections on life, and—most importantly—a ridiculous amount of food. Because here’s the thing: while the official excuse was Bible study, the real event was the feast afterwards.

Picture potluck heaven: casseroles, mac and cheese, fried chicken, trays of desserts, and an absurd number of dips. For every 20 minutes of Bible discussion, there was at least an hour of eating, drinking, and socialising. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and, if I’m being honest, a whole lot of fun. No one cared that I wasn’t religious; they just cared that I had a plate full of food and was having a good time.

By the end of the night, I had a full stomach and a new appreciation for Southern hospitality. And while I wouldn’t say I had a religious awakening, I did learn one very important truth: never turn down an invitation that involves home-cooked food.

Denver: The Homestay That Looked Like a Crime Scene but Changed My Perspective on Life

I’ve stayed in some interesting places over the years, but nothing quite prepared me for the house in Denver.

When I pulled up, my first thought was, “I’m about to be murdered”. The place looked like a junkyard, complete with peeling paint, broken furniture, and an overall “post-apocalyptic chic” aesthetic. The air smelled vaguely of old pizza, and the whole scene had an American Horror Story season premiere vibe.

I almost turned around. Almost.

But because I am (sometimes) too stubborn for my own good, I hesitated just long enough for Erik—the host—to burst through the front door. Erik had crazy eyes, the energy of a man who had chugged three espressos too many, and a motormouth that fired at 200 words per second. He was way too excited to have me stay, which should have been a red flag but was, strangely, kind of endearing.

As he led me through the house, things didn’t exactly get better. Empty pizza boxes stacked in the corner. Cupboards hanging off their hinges. And, oh yes, the small matter of being the ONLY woman in a house of EIGHT men—every single one of whom looked like they had an “interesting” backstory to hide.

At this point, my survival instincts were in full gear. I did a quick video, posted it on Instagram, and let my audience weigh in on whether I was about to be murdered. Over 500 people responded, most of them urging me to GET OUT immediately. Some were so convinced I was in imminent danger that they even offered to pay for a hotel.

Do I Stay Or Do I Go?

But here’s the thing: my gut told me I was safe. And I’ve learned to trust my gut.

So, I stayed.

And I am so glad I did.

Because those eight men? They did have stories—incredible, heartbreaking, jaw-dropping stories.

• One had been homeless, and Erik had taken him in to give him a chance to rebuild his life.
• Another had crossed illegally from El Salvador, risking everything to make it to the U.S.
• One was on the verge of bankruptcy, desperately trying to turn things around.
• Another had narrowly escaped the police in a high-speed chase. He had some of the funniest stories; I wish I had recorded him for keepsake.
• One was 16 years clean from alcohol and narcotics—his story alone was enough to make me rethink everything I knew about resilience.
• And then, of course, there were the conspiracy theories—so, so many conspiracy theories. COVID-19 came from snake venom, don’t you know?

I stayed up late every night, listening to them, completely engrossed in their tales.

Some of them had been through hell and back, and yet, they were some of the kindest, most generous souls I’ve ever met. I went in expecting to feel unsafe and ended up feeling protected, humbled, and weirdly at peace.

I don’t know what it was—maybe it was the sheer vulnerability of it all, or the fact that I was being let into lives so different from my own—but those nights in Denver felt like a spiritual awakening.

It remains, to this day, one of my most memorable stays.

And the best part? I survived.

Cairo: From a Taxi Nightmare to Finding Family

Cairo and I didn’t get off to the best start.

What should have been a routine taxi ride quickly turned into one of those “I really don’t want to be in this situation” moments when the driver made it painfully clear that he expected more than just the fare. Cue the immediate internal panic, strategic planning for an escape route, and the deep realisation that I was very much alone in this car.

Luckily, I managed to get out safely, but the whole experience left me shaken—and questioning if I’d made a mistake coming to Cairo solo.

Then something incredible happened.

My Knight In Shining Armour

A guesthouse owner who had seen my Instagram story about the incident invited me to stay with their family instead. And just like that, Cairo stopped being terrifying and started feeling like home.

From the moment I arrived, they wrapped me in warmth and hospitality. I wasn’t just a guest—I was instantly part of the family. I ate breakfast, lunch, and dinner with them, sitting cross-legged on the floor, learning the art of tearing bread properly and indulging in home-cooked Egyptian feasts.

Their toothless granny took me under her wing, pulling me into the kitchen to teach me how to make local dishes—with absolutely zero regard for measuring ingredients (“You just know when it’s right!”). Meanwhile, the two sisters, my age, took me out for a night on the town, showing me a side of Cairo that no guidebook could ever cover.

In between meals and adventures, I helped the kids with their English homework, and they laughed at my attempts to write in Arabic. The entire experience was like stepping into an alternate version of my trip—one where I was surrounded by kindness, connection, and people who genuinely wanted me to feel safe and welcome.

I came to Cairo as a solo traveller and left feeling like I had family there. If you’d like to experience the same, check out Pyramids Temple Guest House.

To this day, I am grateful beyond words that they transformed what could have been a horrible memory into one of the most heartwarming experiences of my travels.

Sometimes, the best people find you exactly when you need them.

How to Find the Best Homestays

Convinced that homestays are the way to go? Great! The next step is finding the perfect homestay for your next trip. It might feel daunting to entrust your vacation to a random home, but with today’s online platforms it’s easier and safer than ever. My go-to platform for finding homestays is Airbnb– it’s essentially the world’s homestay marketplace (with plenty of entire apartments listed too, so you have to know how to filter for the experience you want). Here are some tips to identify great hosts and experiences on Airbnb (or similar homestay platforms):

Use the Right Filters

On Airbnb, filter for “Private Room” instead of “Entire Place” if you specifically want a homestay experience with the host present. Airbnb even launched a “Rooms” category with a nifty “Host Passport” feature, where hosts share more about themselves. This is gold for travellers seeking a connection – you can pick a host whose profile vibes with you.

Read the Listing Carefully

Look for clues in the description. Does the host mention interacting with guests, sharing meals, or showing people around? Phrases like “we love to welcome travellers and treat them like family” or “happy to hang out or give local tips” are green flags for an immersive homestay. If the listing just talks about amenities and is very businesslike, it might be more of a side hustle rental and less of a cultural exchange.

Check Reviews and Ratings

The reviews are your crystal ball. Look for past guests’ comments about the host’s hospitality, the cleanliness of the home, and any experiences they had. If you see multiple reviews saying things like “Host took me around the city” or “Felt like I was staying with friends,” that’s a great sign. Also, pay attention to how the host responds to reviews – it can give you insight into their personality and how they handle feedback.

Profile Stalking (the good kind)

Take a peek at the host’s profile. Airbnb profiles often include a bio. A host who writes about loving travel, meeting new people, or cooking family recipes for guests is likely doing homestays for the joy of cultural exchange. If their profile is blank or just says “Lives in London,” you might want to dig deeper or be cautious.

Communicate Before Booking

Don’t be shy about sending a message to the host before you book. You can ask a question about the listing or just say hello and mention why you’re coming. Their response (and how fast they respond) will tell you a lot. Friendly, open hosts will usually reply with warmth and details. If someone takes three days to answer with a one-liner, imagine how engaged they’ll be when you’re actually there.

Trust the Homestay Community

If Airbnb isn’t available or you want to try other avenues, look into homestay networks. Some countries have official homestay programs or local agencies. There’s also Homestay.com and Couchsurfing (Couchsurfing is usually free and more of a cultural exchange, but it’s based on a similar stay-with-locals concept). Whatever platform you use, stick to those with good reputations and review systems to ensure safety and quality.

Set Realistic Expectations

Understand that a homestay is not a hotel. That’s its charm! But it means you should be okay with the idea that the home will reflect normal life. There may be quirks – maybe the shower is lukewarm, or the family dog might bark in the morning. If a listing is very clear about something (like “we have cats” or “room is on the 5th floor with no elevator”), take it seriously and decide if you’re cool with it. Being flexible and open-minded is key to enjoying a homestay.

By putting in a bit of effort to choose the right homestay, you set yourself up for an amazing experience. I’ve found that when I do my homework on hosts and communicate early, not only do I feel safer, but I also start building a rapport before I even arrive. It’s like having a pen pal that turns into a host when you land.

Practical Tips for Homestays

Staying in a homestay is a unique experience, and a few smart practices can help ensure it’s smooth and enjoyable for both you and your hosts. Here are some practical tips on safety, cultural etiquette, and being an all-around great guest:

Safety Considerations

Vet Your Host

Stick to platforms with verified reviews. If a host has many positive reviews from people who sound like real travellers, that’s a reassuring sign. Don’t hesitate to Google the address or area beforehand to know what you’re walking into.

Stay Connected

Always let a friend or family member know the address and details of where you’re staying, just as a precaution. It’s a good travel habit whether you’re in a homestay or not. If you are abroad consider getting an eSIM. My go-to is always Airalo.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off upon arrival – say the place is drastically different from the listing or the host is giving you weird vibes – you are allowed to leave. Contact the booking platform or find alternative lodging if you feel unsafe. Your gut feeling is usually right.

Secure Your Valuables

In most homestays, hosts are incredibly trustworthy (often, your stuff is safer with them than in a shared hostel dorm!). But it’s wise to take normal precautions. Keep your passport, cash, and important items in a secure place. I travel with a small lockable case for peace of mind, but I rarely need to use it.

Respect Personal Boundaries

Safety goes both ways – remember you’re in someone’s home. Don’t snoop around private areas, and follow any guidance about which spaces are private. It keeps everyone feeling safe and comfortable.

Cultural Etiquette

Do Your Homework

A little knowledge goes a long way. Before you arrive, learn a bit about the local customs and any cultural no-nos. In some places, shoes off at the door is expected. In others, eating with your left hand might be frowned upon. Showing that you respect your host’s culture will endear you to them immediately.

Ask and Observe

Not sure if you should call your host “Auntie,” “Mr. Lee,” or by their first name? It’s okay to ask how they’d like to be addressed. Observe how the family members interact and follow suit. If everyone is praying before a meal, you can join respectfully, even if it’s not your tradition – it’s a sign of respect.

Mind the House Rules

Different homes, different rules. Your host might have specific rules like quiet hours, no shoes indoors, or locking up at a certain time. Adhere to them as you would in a friend’s home. If you’re not clear on the rules, ask on day one to avoid any awkward misunderstandings.

Communication is Key

If there’s a language barrier, don’t worry. Be patient, speak slowly, and use translation apps or even charades if needed. People appreciate the effort. Learn a few key phrases in their language – especially “thank you” – to show you care.

Be Open-Minded

You might encounter beliefs or routines that are different from your own. As long as it’s not harmful, approach these differences with curiosity rather than judgment. I’ve sat through that Bible study in Florida, shot guns in Nebraska, and listened to differing political views, all as part of the homestay learning curve. It’s okay to feel a bit out of your element; that’s where the growth (and the great stories) happen.

Being a Great Guest

Engage and Be Present

The best homestay experiences come from engaging with your hosts. Share about your life and culture, and show interest in theirs. Ask about that family photo on the wall, or how that delicious stew was made. People love sharing when someone is genuinely interested.

Help Out (Within Reason)

You’re not at a hotel, so don’t expect to be waited on. If you see the table being set, offer to help. If you’re staying more than a couple of days, consider helping with a small chore. I’ve washed dishes, chopped vegetables, and even fed chickens. It shows gratitude and breaks the ice. (Of course, if they insist you relax, then enjoy being catered to!)

Keep Your Space Tidy

Treat their home like you would a cherished relative’s home. Keep your room reasonably neat, don’t leave toiletries all over a shared bathroom, and maybe even strip the bed sheets on your last day if appropriate. Your hosts aren’t your maids; showing you care for their space is a simple way to say thank you.

Bring a Token of Appreciation

It’s not required, but it’s a lovely gesture to bring a small gift from your home region or country. It could be local chocolates, a small handicraft, or something representative of your culture. I often carry little postcards or sweets from my hometown to give to hosts. It’s a warm way to start the stay and leaves a bit of your culture with them.

Share a Meal or Skill

If you have the opportunity, offer to cook a meal for your hosts – maybe a dish from your country. Or share a skill (teach a few phrases in your language, a card game, a dance step). These exchanges become cherished memories. I’ve often baked my mum’s brownie recipe for hosts– they always disappear in no time, and we bond over the shared dessert.

Leave on a Positive Note

When it’s time to depart, thank your hosts sincerely. You might feel words aren’t enough – that’s okay. A heartfelt note or a promise to stay in touch can mean the world. And absolutely leave a good review if you booked through a platform; it’s the best “thank you” that helps them continue hosting.

Stay in Touch

If you really connected, keep in touch. It’s easier than ever with messaging apps and social media. Many of my homestay hosts have become lifelong friends. I send holiday greetings to a few, and I know that if I ever return, I’ll be welcomed back like family.

By following these tips, you ensure that you get the most out of your homestay and also give the best to your hosts. It’s a two-way street of respect and openness. The goal is to leave positive vibes (and maybe a few happy tears) in your wake, making your hosts glad they opened their home to a stranger who quickly became a friend.

My Final Thoughts on Homestays

Travel is all about the stories we collect and the connections we make. When you skip the international hotel and stay in a homestay, you supercharge both. Suddenly, every day on your trip has the potential to become a story: a wedding you unexpectedly attended, a new dish you learned to cook, a local festival you danced in, or even a lifelong friend you met. Homestays create the kind of unforgettable moments that simply don’t happen when you’re isolated in the tourist bubble.

Yes, it takes a little courage to book a room in a stranger’s home. It means surrendering to the unknown and stepping out of your comfort zone. But that’s where the magic truly happens. My homestay adventures have taught me that humanity is overwhelmingly kind, that culture is best experienced from the inside out, and that home can be found in the most unexpected places around the world.

So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider hitting the “Book” button on a homestay instead of a Hilton. Swap the lobby for a living room and the room service for a home-cooked supper. You might trade a mint-on-the-pillow for a heartfelt conversation, or a standard city tour for a personal adventure. And you’ll almost certainly return home with richer experiences (and maybe a few new recipes and WhatsApp contacts).

After all, when was the last time a hotel concierge invited you to their grandma’s house for dinner or took you to a family wedding? Exactly. Step off the beaten path, embrace the unknown, and let homestays show you the heart of the world – one home at a time.