The travel industry has evolved over time to meet the needs of modern Indian travelers. Travel trends are improving all the time.  Accommodation is a travel trend that has received a lot of attention and appreciation in the last few years. Homestays are becoming increasingly popular among travelers.

What Exactly Is A Homestay?

Simply put, a homestay is a portion of someone’s home that has been converted into lodging for tourists for a fee. The host, who is usually a local family, primarily provides sleeping accommodations in their home for visitors but may also provide meals, local travel arrangements, pickups, and other services depending on the homestay owners. 

For first-time travelers, a homestay will be less intimidating than large impersonal hotels. Even for frequent travelers who are constantly on the go, a homestay is a great way to meet new people and experience a “home away from home.” Many people nowadays prefer homestays because the services provided by the hosts are more personalized and affordable.

Here are a few reasons mentioned why Homestays are preferred over hotel stays.

1. Get a Real Local Experience

Travel is all about trying new things and embracing the local culture. Staying in a homestay with a local family for a few days is the most authentic experience you can have. 

While hotels can be luxurious, they rarely allow you to experience the true essence of a location. No one knows a place better than the locals, and staying at a homestay allows you to truly connect with the area and gain insider information.

2. Relish the local cuisine.

Nothing compares to the comfort of home-cooked meals! 

The delicious home-cooked meal is unquestionably the best part of staying in a homestay. Staying there gives you the opportunity to learn about the preparation process, as most hosts are willing to share their secret recipes with you. 

Even if you want to eat outside, homestays can introduce you to some amazing local restaurants that aren’t on the tourist map.

3. To find the best bet for your money

We agree that good hotels provide highly professional services and that their high-end management easily caters to the needs of their guests, but these hotels can be prohibitively expensive at times. 

And even if you are fortunate enough to find a hotel room at a reasonable price, there is a chance that it will be dirty and unsanitary. However, this is not the case with homestays. Yes, they can be pricey at times, but they are well worth it. You can enjoy the comforts of home in an unfamiliar place by renting a room at a homestay.

Aside from the facilities, it also gives you and your family a closer look at a native’s daily life and how they go about their day. You get to live in a place that feels like a new home, complete with necessary amenities, and all of this more than compensates for the price you’ll pay.

4. More calm and quality time

Homestays are a good option if you want to get away from city life. Because they are smaller than hotels, homestays usually do not accommodate more people. 

This simply means that you will have more quality time with yourself, your family, or your friends. These less populated, less frequented areas provide solitude. Some homestays are also available for hire as a whole, making them ideal for small group bookings.

5. Help the Local Economy

Homestays are small, simple businesses run by the host family to supplement their family’s income. Staying in a homestay directly contributes to the local economy, allowing the destination to grow and prosper. 

It’s a great way to give back to the community where you’re visiting. Hotels will thrive with or without responsible travellers, but homestays must be loved, nurtured, and encouraged among travellers for the greater good.

Choose the Best Homestay

Here are some pointers to help you find the best homestay for you and your family:

1. Take note of the basic services provided by the homestay.

2. Determine whether meals are available (especially breakfast), as you don’t want to go out at 8 a.m. in a new city looking for food.

3. Stay in a location where you can easily find a mode of transportation.

4. Speak with the owners to gain a better understanding of the homestay, and make sure to ask any questions or concerns you may have.

5. Always read the reviews and ratings of the homestay you intend to stay at.

A homestay is something you should do at least once because it allows you to see the destination through the eyes of a local. A homestay’s personalized experiences will make you fall in love with the idea of staying in one. Stay with a family you feel at ease with and plan your next vacation around homestays to avoid feeling homesick!

To get an idea of a great homestay, do check out the website of Hriday Bhoomi, a Luxury Cottages in Jim Corbett.