👋🏻 Hola! My identify is Trisha and I lived with host households in over 20 international locations! On this article, I’ll share with you all my suggestions and methods on the best way to discover a host household overseas. Let’s get began!
Reader Mail: Howdy Trisha! Your weblog is a wealth of knowledge. Thanks a lot! I’m trying to stick with native households overseas and was questioning how did you do it? Are you able to train me the best way to discover a host household overseas? Is there an internet site of some type? Is it additionally protected? Thanks loads for all of your assist. I actually admire your work!
– Emma, UK
Expensive Emma,
Thanks a lot for following! I used to be fairly shocked by your e-mail as a result of there aren’t loads of vacationers who need to learn to discover a host household. Normally, persons are scared to stick with strangers! I’m glad you need to journey this fashion, actually!
I’ve been hosted by many native households overseas however I normally simply discover them by myself. Sadly, there aren’t loads of web sites that do this sort of factor but however we’ll get to that!
Anyway, I’ll share my suggestions on this put up hoping that it’ll assist you plan your travels. Be at liberty to get in contact with me in the event you really feel like you may have questions that weren’t answered on this put up. Good luck! I’m so excited for you! Xx, Trisha
What’s lined on this Journey Homestay Information:
How To Discover A Host Household
How To Discover A Host Household By means of Worldpackers
Worldpackers is a stable choice for locating host households, particularly if you wish to learn to discover a host household overseas. What makes it stand out? Right here’s my private expertise:
- Verified Hosts & Evaluations – I solely stayed with hosts who had a number of optimistic evaluations, and that made all of the distinction. Studying actual traveler experiences helped me keep away from sketchy conditions and discover essentially the most welcoming households. It felt reassuring figuring out others had nice stays earlier than me.
- Security Assure – One time, my first host canceled last-minute, however Worldpackers helped me discover one other host household inside hours. I didn’t really feel stranded, which was an enormous aid! Their help workforce really follows up if one thing feels off, so I by no means felt like I used to be by myself.
- Numerous Alternatives – My host household in Argentina wasn’t nearly providing a room; I helped their children follow English, realized the best way to prepare dinner native dishes, and even tagged alongside for a countryside weekend journey! The platform connects you to actual experiences, not only a place to sleep.
- Robust Neighborhood – Earlier than reserving, I chatted with vacationers who had stayed with my potential host. They shared nice insights—like what the home was actually like and the way the household interacted with friends. That additional layer of knowledge made me really feel a lot extra assured about my alternative!
If you’re touring alone, the price of the membership is $59 USD per yr and if you’re touring with a associate or a buddy, it prices $109 USD per yr.
Additionally notice that with Worldpackers, a lot of the experiences are FREE. Hosts don’t ask you to pay for the keep however you’ll be requested to assist in family chores or any assist they want.
✅ SIGN UP WITH WORLDPACKERS →
Or use the low cost code PSIMONMYWAY10 for $10 low cost!
How To Discover A Host Household By means of Homestay
Homestay is a good choice in the event you’re on the lookout for a host household expertise somewhat than only a place to sleep. Not like resorts or short-term leases, you’ll be staying in a actual house with locals, making cultural immersion way more pure.
One among its finest options is its verified hosts, which provides an additional layer of security and reliability—you’re much less more likely to run into sketchy conditions. Plus, the costs are normally extra inexpensive than resorts, and hosts typically present insider journey suggestions you received’t discover in guidebooks.
Whether or not you want a brief keep or a long-term association, Homestay.com gives flexibility. Since hosts are locals, you additionally get entry to genuine experiences—many share hidden gems, native meals spots, and distinctive insights into their tradition.
Is it the finest web site for homestays? It actually is dependent upon what you’re on the lookout for. If you would like a structured cultural change the place you assist with duties or volunteer, platforms like Worldpackers is perhaps higher.
However in the event you simply desire a comfy homestay with locals, Homestay is unquestionably one of the best web site to search out host households. That is just like the Airbnb of host households. Signing up is FREE however you must pay on your keep relying on the variety of nights you need to stick with the native household.
✅ SIGN UP WITH HOMESTAY FOR FREE →
Feeling not sure about journey security? With 16 years of solo journey throughout 90+ international locations, I’ve realized what works and what doesn’t. Get sensible security suggestions and journey recommendation that truly assist, regardless of the place you are headed!
Discover Host Household in Asia
When trying into the best way to discover a bunch household in Asia, it’s vital to strategy potential hosts with respect and cultural consciousness. Many Asian households admire a well mannered and formal introduction, so beginning your message with a heat greeting and gratitude units the fitting tone.
As a substitute of simply searching for a free place to remain, emphasize cultural change—households in Asia worth friends who present real curiosity of their traditions and every day life. A humble and pleasant tone works finest—phrasing like “I might love the chance to…” feels extra respectful than a direct “I would like a spot to remain.”
Moreover, understanding cultural etiquette makes an enormous distinction. Listed below are some Asian cultural etiquette to pay attention to:
- Respect Hierarchy – In lots of Asian cultures, elders are extremely revered. If writing to a household, acknowledge their senior members with well mannered language.
- Keep away from Overly Informal Language – Whereas friendliness is nice, overly casual phrasing may appear disrespectful. Maintain it heat however skilled.
- Present-Giving Custom – Many Asian households admire small items from your house nation as a gesture of goodwill. Point out in the event you plan to convey one.
- Thoughts Private Boundaries – Some cultures, like Japan and South Korea, worth private house. Keep away from overly private questions in your first message.
- Be Affected person – Responses might take time, as some households talk about internet hosting selections collectively.
Listed below are some nice alternatives to search out host household in Asia:
- Assist with kids in Hanoi, Vietnam
- Dwelling Adorning, re-arranging and inside setup in Kolkata, India
- Be part of Us for an Unbelievable Snow Season in Hakuba, Japan!
- Assist round our backyard and expertise Japanese household home
✅ VIEW ALL HOST FAMILIES IN ASIA →
Each nice journey begins with a plan—be certain that TRAVEL INSURANCE is a part of yours!
👉🏼 You may also like: Meet my host household in Sri Lanka
Discover Host Household in Europe
When exploring the best way to discover a host household in Europe, understand that European households usually want simple requests, so clearly state that you simply’re on the lookout for a bunch household, not only a place to remain.
Personalizing your message is vital—point out your curiosity of their nation’s traditions, way of life, and even native delicacies. Respecting their time can also be essential; maintain your message concise and well-structured, avoiding overly lengthy introductions.
Cultural etiquette varies throughout Europe, and adapting your tone helps make an excellent impression. In international locations like Germany and France, a barely formal tone is appreciated at first, whereas in Southern Europe—similar to Spain, Italy, and Portugal—a extra relaxed and heat strategy works higher.
Privateness and private house are valued in lots of European households, so keep away from overly private questions in your first message. A small reward from your house nation is a considerate gesture in locations like France and Germany, displaying appreciation for his or her hospitality.
Moreover, punctuality issues—if discussing your keep, be clear about dates and respect their schedule, as Northern European cultures place excessive significance on time administration.
Lastly, understanding social variations may help make your keep extra significant—whereas Italians and Spaniards are typically extremely social, Scandinavian households could also be extra reserved, preferring quiet and unbiased interactions.
✅ VIEW ALL HOST FAMILIES IN EUROPE →
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Discover Host Household in South America
When exploring the best way to discover a host household in South America, perceive that hospitality is heat and deeply rooted in household values. Not like extra formal cultures, South People admire pleasant, private connections, so your message ought to replicate enthusiasm and openness.
As a substitute of a inflexible introduction, begin with a heat greeting and briefly share why you’re enthusiastic about their nation—whether or not it’s the native traditions, meals, or lifestyle. Many host households take pleasure in cultural change, so mentioning what you may contribute, similar to language follow or cooking a meal, makes your request extra interesting.
Since plans in South America may be fluid, displaying flexibility will assist you adapt to their lifestyle. Respecting etiquette is simply as vital as making a very good first impression. A heat greeting—whether or not a handshake, hug, or cheek kiss—varies by nation however is commonly an indication of hospitality.
Since household performs a central position in South America, acknowledging their relations in your message exhibits respect and appreciation. Additionally, time is extra relaxed—so don’t count on speedy responses or strict schedules.
Lastly, communication tends to be expressive and passionate, which means a heat, participating tone can be properly obtained.
✅ VIEW ALL HOST FAMILIES IN SOUTH AMERICA →
How To Discover A Host Household For Free
In case you’re questioning the best way to discover a host household at no cost, listed here are a number of platforms and methods that may assist:
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a platform the place vacationers stick with locals at no cost, fostering cultural change as an alternative of simply discovering a spot to crash. It’s all about sharing experiences, making connections, and exploring locations with insider suggestions—form of like having on the spot native mates worldwide.
I’ve used Couchsurfing many instances however I’ve all the time stayed with people, not households. In Uruguay, I attempted one thing new on the best way to discover a host household by way of Couchsurfing. It by no means actually mattered to me the place in Uruguay as it is a small nation.
Now, with the Couchsurfing neighborhood, this will appear uncommon that you’re discovering a bunch household as a result of the hosts are normally simply people. Households don’t use Couchsurfing.
In case you select this technique on the best way to discover a host household overseas, you’ll be posting on a group or neighborhood board somewhat than messaging a person host. Couchsurfing has devoted boards the place vacationers, locals, and hosts change recommendation, share cultural experiences, and typically supply homestays or connections to host households.
Right here’s a pattern put up I did:
Topic: In search of Host Household in Uruguay for Cultural Change
Expensive Montevideo Couchsurfing Neighborhood:
I hope you’re all doing properly! I’m reaching out as a result of I’m planning a significant keep in Uruguay and would love to attach with a welcoming host household for a cultural change expertise. I’m touring the world for over 3 years now and my subsequent cease is Uruguay! I can train English, cooking courses, and may train digital advertising and social media. I may assist you edit movies in the event you want! Please ship me a non-public message if you’re to host me. Trying ahead to speak!
Since anybody within the group can see your message and probably reply, be certain that your wording is direct however pleasant so locals or vacationers really feel inspired to assist. Maintain it clear that you simply’re on the lookout for a host household, not a person host, to keep away from confusion with Couchsurfing’s normal setup.
👉🏼 Really helpful: 10 Years of Couchsurfing: Security Suggestions and Methods
2. Meet-Up
MeetUp is a platform the place individuals join over shared pursuits, whether or not it’s mountain climbing, language studying, and even journey. In case you’re exploring the best way to discover a host household overseas, becoming a member of native teams may help you meet welcoming households.
You browse occasions or communities based mostly in your pursuits, be a part of teams, and attend meetups. It’s nice for networking, making mates, and discovering locals who may supply distinctive homestay alternatives by way of cultural change.
Begin by looking for expat, journey, or cultural change teams in your vacation spot. Attend occasions the place locals collect—language exchanges, meals meetups, or neighborhood initiatives—to construct connections. When you’ve bonded with individuals, some may supply homestay alternatives or introduce you to households internet hosting vacationers.
3. Discover host household by way of Fb teams
I’m amazed how becoming a member of Fb teams has helped loads on this solo feminine journey journey. Right now, I’m a member of over 100 FB teams and it’s my foremost automobile for any questions I’ll have whereas touring South America.
I discovered my host household in Peru by posting within the Peru Backpacking group in a span of minutes. I taught a complete household English whereas staying with them. I had my very own room, they fed me properly and I stayed with them for one and a half months.
You don’t have to discover a particular Fb group to search out host household. Any group within the metropolis that you simply’re in will certainly work. After I was in Cambodia, I posted in a gaggle that I’m a journalist trying to write about native household tradition in Cambodia. After a couple of minutes, I obtained 10 messages inviting me to stick with them!
However after all, Asian international locations are extra open to receiving guests in order that was very easy for me on Fb. Most Asian nations additionally use Fb.
👉🏼 Learn Subsequent: My Household Keep Expertise in Amman, Jordan
4. Discover host household by way of mates of mates
I’ve a bunch of mates in Brazil who I met whereas CouchSurfing. I requested one in all my mates if she is aware of somebody who can settle for me as a visitor for a few weeks and fortunately, she did. I stayed along with her aunt who lives alone on an enormous cow farm, a bit South of Brazil the place I helped in feeding/milking the cows and each farming job you may consider.
I additionally had my very own room with a state-of-the-art toilet. Moreover, the aunt didn’t communicate English so I needed to battle my solution to study Portuguese – and I did.
I’ve stayed with all their households all through my travels in Brazil as a result of they only saved passing me round: “Oh, stick with my aunt in Curitiba!”
“Trisha, I’ve a buddy that lives in Rio and she is going to such as you!” This one household has helped me traveled all all through Brazil with out paying for lodging. This was actually one of the in-depth cultural exchanges I did and it was not even intentional!
👉🏼 Associated: Staying with a buddy of a buddy in Lima, Peru
Security Suggestions On How To Discover A Host Household Overseas
You’ll obtain loads of responses, particularly if you’re a solo feminine traveler so that you higher be thorough on selecting your host household. In case you’re getting a number of gives, selecting the best host is all about balancing security, compatibility, and luxury. Right here’s the best way to slim down your choices:
- Have a look at their evaluations—prior friends’ experiences are key. Keep away from hosts with few or no evaluations.
- Learn their about part—do their values and way of life match what you’re on the lookout for?
- Examine their verification standing—Couchsurfing permits customers to confirm their identification, which provides a layer of belief.
- If attainable, select hosts with a number of optimistic references from vacationers who stayed with them.
- Keep away from overly imprecise profiles or anybody who refuses to reply primary questions on their house and expectations.
- Go for hosts who welcome you right into a family-friendly, community-oriented surroundings somewhat than somebody treating it purely as a free-stay transaction.
- In case you worth deep cultural change, select hosts who actively interact with friends (not simply providing a sofa).
- Learn their descriptions—do they point out actions you take pleasure in, like sharing meals or exploring town?
- If language issues, examine whether or not you share a widespread language for simpler communication.
- What are their expectations of friends? (Chores, curfews, social interplay?)
- What are the sleeping preparations—do you get a non-public room or is it shared house?
- How lengthy are they comfy internet hosting you? (Some may solely supply a couple of nights.)
- If somebody rushes you into a choice, ignores boundaries, or appears inconsistent, rethink your alternative.
- Select somebody who makes you are feeling welcome and relaxed, not simply obligated to just accept a proposal.
- If a bunch is too pushy or asks for one thing uncomfortable, politely decline and transfer on.
✅ FIND 1,000+ HOST FAMILIES NOW! →
Are you a newbie solo feminine traveler? Here is how I may help you:
📞 Solo Feminine Journey Chat: The individuals round you may discourage you to journey alone. Shrug the feedback off and chat with me!
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