Nepal is a country with some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes, ancient cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. A homestay vacation in Nepal can be a perfect way to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture, interact with the locals, and explore the hidden gems that are not usually on the tourist radar.
To plan a perfect homestay vacation in Nepal, there are a few essential things that you need to consider. From choosing the right location and accommodation to planning your itinerary, there are several aspects that you need to keep in mind to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.
In this guide, we will take you through the steps to plan the perfect homestay vacation in Nepal. So whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to trek in the Himalayas, a culture buff interested in exploring the ancient temples and monuments, or simply looking to unwind and relax in the serene natural surroundings, this guide will provide you with all the information and knowledge you need to plan a perfect homestay vacation in Nepal.
What is a Community Homestay?
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle of your travel destination, then homestays are the place that you would want to stay rather than staying in hotels and resorts. Basically, homestays are an alternative to staying in a hotel or resort. One of the most distinct differences between the homestay and hotels is the fact that you can actually stay with locals in their home as part of the local communities. Compared to individual homestay, a community homestay has more than 5 families who host guests in their homes at a community.
Travelers staying at homestays can have a more genuine vacation experience by fully immersing in the local cultures and learn about local history and traditions by staying in community homestays.
What can you Expect in a Community Homestay?
When you book a community homestay, you can expect to have a private room (or rooms) in one of the family’s homes, and share some common spaces such as the living room, kitchen, and bathroom with the family. The host will provide you with meals, and you may be able to participate in the daily activities of the local community or join them on excursions or sightseeing tours (based on the experiences available to tourists in the locality).
As a traveler here are some of the things you can expect from a homestay experience:
Learn about the Local Cultures
Staying with a local family can give you a unique insight into their local cultures and way of life. You can learn about the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the local people, and gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. On top of that, you can also have hands-on experience of different customs and traditions, in the form of cultural dances and festive celebrations, if you book a stay at one of Community Homestay Network’s homestays.
Authentic Local Cuisine
Looking for a unique foodie experience on your next travel plans? Most family homestays include meals, and you can expect to enjoy authentic local cuisine prepared by the family. This is a great opportunity to try new foods and flavours, and learn about local cooking techniques. At community homestay, you can also learn to cook local foods with the hosts while staying at a homestay,
Immersive travel experience
While hotels and lodges may provide you with a more individualized experience, staying with a local family can give you personalized attention and a more immersive travel experience. Living with the locals you can fully engage and be involved in the local culture and environment of the destination which goes beyond just sightseeing and tourist activities. The meaningful interactions with the family members and local communities will give a memorable experience while connecting with the locals.
A Sense of Community
Staying with a local family can give you a sense of community and belonging. You can interact with the family members, meet their friends and neighbours, and have a firsthand experience of the local way of life. These interactions will allow you to fully immerse in the local community, traditions, and way of life. While staying in a community homestay, you will not only be a part of the host family but a part of the community as a whole.
Overall, living with a host family can be a rewarding and enriching travel experience, especially for travelers who want to expose themselves to different cultures and ways of life.
How to Find the Perfect Homestay?
Unlike hotels and resorts, homestays have limited access to its marketing and promotion. Finding the perfect homestay for your group can take some research and planning, but here are some tips to help you get started:
Research Your Destination
Before you start looking for a homestay, research your destination and the areas where you want to stay. Consider factors such as location, safety, and accessibility to transportation and attractions.
Read Reviews
Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of their experiences with the homestay. Look for reviews that mention things such as hygiene, cleanliness, hospitality, and the quality of the meals.
Connect with the Host
Before booking a homestay, it’s a good idea to connect with the host and ask questions about the accommodations, meals, amenities and any activities available in the location. This can also give you a sense of the host’s hospitality and help you discover the hidden treasures of the destination.
Consider Your Group’s Needs
If you’re traveling with children or elderly members, you may want to look for a homestay that is family-friendly and accessible. If you have specific dietary requirements, you may want to look for a homestay that can accommodate your needs.
Ask for Recommendations
Ask friends or family members who have travelled to the same destination if they have any recommendations for homestays. You can also ask for recommendations on travel forums or social media groups.
In the case of finding a homestay in Nepal, you can use homestay booking websites or look for recommendations from travellers who have visited Nepal before. At Community Homestay Network, you will have access to all the points mentioned above along with being offered customised itineraries as per your convenience. Our team of travel experts and professionals are always available to answer your queries and help you plan a stress free vacation with different communities across Nepal.
What Necessary Preparations and Planning Should You Do Before You Go On a Family Homestay Trip?
Planning a family homestay trip can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to make some necessary preparations and planning beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some things to consider:
Research Your Destination
Before you go, research your destination to learn about the local customs, culture, and climate. This can help you pack appropriately and prepare for any cultural differences you may encounter during your homestay.
Check Visa and Vaccination Requirements
If you’re traveling internationally, check the visa and vaccination requirements for your destination. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and vaccinations before you go.
Pack Appropriate Clothing
Depending on the climate and cultural customs of your destination, you may need to pack appropriate clothing. Consider packing comfortable and breathable clothing for hot climates, and warmer clothing for cooler climates.
Pack Accordingly
Homestays often have limited space, so it’s a good idea to pack light. Consider packing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and bring only the essentials.
Communicate with the Host
Before you go, communicate with the host of your homestay to learn about any specific needs or expectations they may have. This can help you prepare and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Plan Activities
Research and plan activities that you and your family can do during your homestay. This can include local sightseeing, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
Prepare for Emergencies
Make sure you have travel insurance and emergency contacts in case of an emergency during your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit and any necessary medications.
By making these necessary preparations and planning for trips ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable family homestay trip.
What Amenities are Available in Most Community Homestays?
The amenities available in a community homestay can vary depending on the specific kind of community and location, but some of the basic amenities that you can expect in most family homestays include:
- Bedroom(s) with Comfortable Beds and Linens:
Homestays typically offer private bedrooms for guests, which may include a decent single-sized bed, fresh linens, and pillows. - Shared or Private Bathroom(s):
While some homestays may offer private bathrooms, you will be sharing the bathrooms with host families in most cases. Fresh towels and toiletries are mostly provided. - Common Areas:
Homestays may offer common areas such as living rooms, dining rooms, and outdoor spaces for guests to relax and interact with the host families. - Wi-Fi:
Most homestays provide Wi-Fi access for guests. Who doesn’t need Wi-fi nowadays? But one can always have the option to disconnect the Wi-fi to get up close and personal with the actual people and their surroundings in their respective communities. Few of the homestays in rural areas of Nepal do not provide Wi-Fi, you can connect to the internet with data packs from the local carriers. - Meals:
The homestays provide homely meals for guests. Depending on the community, the type of meals may vary. However, you will enjoy “Daal Bhat”, the staple meal of all Nepali at every homestay with few variations. The homestay also offers guests an opportunity to cook local food with their host families. - Parking Facilities:
Depending on the location, homestays may offer parking facilities for guests who have their own transportation.
It’s always a good idea to check with the host or to review the homestay listing to see what amenities are specifically included in the rental before booking. You can also check the basic amenities provided by the homestays while browsing through your next homestay destination in Community Homestay Network’s website.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Family Homestay Experience
Choosing a homestay as your destination is already an enriching experience itself. But, here are some tips for making the most of your family homestay experience:
- Don’t Hesitate to Communicate with Your Host:
Reach out to your host before you arrive and ask any questions you may have. This can help you get a better understanding of what to expect during your stay and can also help your host prepare for your arrival. - Be Respectful:
Remember that you are a guest in someone’s home, so be respectful of their space and their rules. Be mindful of noise levels and keep common areas tidy. - Engage with your Host:
Take the time to get to know your host and ask about their culture and daily life. This can help you gain a deeper appreciation for the local culture and can also help you build a meaningful connection with your host. - Participate in Local Activities:
Your host may be able to recommend local activities or events that you can participate in during your stay. This can be a great way to experience the local culture and make the most of your time in the area. You can also pre-plan what sort of local activities that you involve yourself in by browsing through the experiences listed on our website. - Try the Local Cuisine:
Your host may be able to recommend local restaurants or even prepare traditional meals for you. Trying the local cuisine can be a great way to experience the local culture and lifestyle. - Be Flexible:
Remember that you are staying in someone’s home and that things may not always go according to plan. Be flexible and adaptable, and try to approach any challenges or unexpected situations with a positive attitude.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your family homestay experience and create lasting memories of your time in the local community.
