Homestays now a part of mainstream travel ecosystem
With homestays propping up all over India, it is a new concept for many travellers. However, homestays are increasingly taking place on the Indian traveller’s itinerary. This concept was already popular globally, but it is fast catching on in India as wel
Over the past few years, the hospitality segment has experienced several changes. The sector that went down in the pandemic era is now making a stellar comeback at the pan-India level. According to a study report by JLL, the RevPAR (revenue per available room) experienced an exponential growth of 339.3 per cent YoY in Q1 2022 compared to the previous year. This growth is driven by several factors, including the shift in customer preferences.
As more services related to shared facilities increase, the travel industry in India is witnessing the concept of sharing homes with the luxury facilities of a hotel, also known as homestays. Homestay accommodations are becoming more popular because of their unique operating model and the more personalised stay experience that they provide. In addition, more and more travellers are looking for luxurious and spacious homes for a comfortable stay, and homestay accommodations are catering to their needs in an incredible manner.
Homestays stepping into the Mainstream Travel Ecosystem
Homestays in India are still in the nascent stage. However, it has rapidly become part of the core of tourism with its multi-faceted offerings. It offers a wide range of facilities that tourists prefer, such as natural resources, manmade heritages, social bonding, community experiences, luxury stays, pleasant hospitality, and many more. It also provides undiscovered treasures that amaze today’s modern travel fraternity.
Homestays have emerged as such a demand-driven concept that they have become need-based and have the full potential to grow multi-folds. Furthermore, the government’s hospitality ecosystem policies in the domains of community-based tourism, rural tourism, nature tourism, and several unique prepositions are fuelling the growth of the homestay industry.
Homestays now the first preference of tourists
The hospitality industry is based on four pillars: location, service, facilities, and attraction. Through the concept of homestays, this industry caters to the needs of tourists with homegrown resources and a natural setting along with curated experiences. Moreover, the homestay community has become so strong that it is now an active participant in promoting tourism in India. Furthermore, the properties are handled more sustainably, making them environmentally friendly and the first choice of tourists.
Apart from the accommodation factor, the homestays provide several outdoor activities and cultural nuances for the guests to experience. These activities can differ regarding the position of the geographical area or property. All these factors make homestays the first preference for tourists while visiting prime or offbeat locations.
A delicate mix of experiences
Homestays are rapidly becoming part of the mainstream travel ecosystem because of the rich experience they provide tourists. The guests staying in the homestay are more likely to experience the rich local culture, traditional food, and hidden spots while staying close to nature. Moreover, the upside of this accommodation is that you get accustomed to new traditions, local meals, cultural festivals, and a new perspective on living a life away from the city’s hustle.
Usually, homestays are situated at a distance from mainstream cities, and hence, they attract more tourists. The need for calm environments, scenic beauty, and serene surroundings brings tourists to these places. Homestays are an ideal lodging option for anyone looking for a peaceful environment surrounded by nature while on vacation. As the house owner lives on the property, all necessary care is taken to make the stay as comfortable as possible. Because it is away from mainstream roadside traffic, guests can easily have their getaways and immerse themselves in the serenity of the location.
All things considered
India is well known for its warm hospitality and cultural diversity. It has historical and natural aspects that contribute to its popularity among tourists. Their tourism aspirations are fulfilled with the comfort and luxury stays at these properties situated in the depths of nature. In addition to that, homestays have become a popular trend that tourists enjoy, which has enormous potential for the tourism industry.
The homestay concept assists hospitality brands in diversifying and expanding their portfolios while also assisting locals in monetising their unattended properties. Furthermore, it bridges the gap between asset demand and supply while assisting hospitality enterprises in reaching out to remote areas for further property development. Moreover, homestays have also emerged as a sustainable development method that provides a source of income for many people in these areas. Overall, it has become the first preference of tourists, making it a part of the mainstream tourism ecosystem.