Homestays have become increasingly attractive to travellers due to their unique ability to align with diverse destination attractiveness factors and cater to various travel motivations. This trend is driven by several factors that contribute to the appeal of homestays in the travel industry.
Firstly, there is a palpable shift in consumer preferences towards immersive and culturally enriching experiences. Homestays offer a unique opportunity for travellers to connect with local communities, gain insights into their traditions, and experience daily life in a destination. This cultural immersion aspect aligns with the evolving expectations of modern travellers who seek more than just a conventional hotel stay.
Another key factor contributing to the current demand for homestays is the desire for a more personalised and intimate travel experience. Unlike traditional accommodations, homestays often involve staying in a local resident’s home, providing a sense of warmth and hospitality that is hard to replicate in commercial establishments. Travellers appreciate the personal touch, local recommendations, and the chance to interact with their hosts, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
Additionally, the rise of the sharing economy has played a pivotal role in the popularity of homestays. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have made it easier for homeowners to open their doors to travellers, offering a diverse range of accommodations from quaint cottages to urban apartments. This increased accessibility has expanded the options available to travellers, allowing them to choose accommodations that align with their preferences and travel goals.
Homestays are also often perceived as a more cost-effective alternative, especially for budget-conscious travellers. Affordability, coupled with the added value of a unique and authentic experience, makes homestays an attractive option for a broad spectrum of travellers.
The ongoing global pandemic has further influenced the demand for homestays. With a heightened awareness of health and safety concerns, some travellers are drawn to the idea of staying in smaller, more secluded accommodations. Homestays, often located in residential neighbourhoods away from crowded tourist areas, provide a sense of seclusion and security that aligns with current health-conscious travel preferences.
The current demand for homestays is multifaceted, encompassing a desire for authentic experiences, a shift towards personalised travel, the influence of the sharing economy, cost considerations, and evolving health and safety concerns. As travellers continue to seek more meaningful and individualised experiences, the popularity of homestays is likely to endure and evolve, shaping the landscape of the travel industry in the years to come.
About the Author:
AKMAL HAFIZ B. ABU BAKAR
Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, SEGi College Subang Jaya
Akmal Hafiz B Abu Bakar boasts an impressive background with a rich tapestry of professional experiences. With an impressive seven years of dedicated service in the Higher Education industry, he has honed his expertise in various facets of education and learning. Additionally, his four-year stint in the food service industry has equipped him with a profound understanding of culinary arts and food safety practices. Akmal has also dedicated two years to training and coaching young adults across diverse fields. Akmal’s extensive knowledge spans a wide spectrum of subjects within the Hospitality and Tourism domain. His areas of expertise encompass Hospitality and Tourism modules, food safety and handling, and a comprehensive array of topics related to the hospitality industry. A few notable areas of his proficiency include ensuring the highest quality of customer service, resource management, and the finer points of table etiquette.
