A homestay in India

Allison Sodha

A homestay (or home stay) can be an enriching alternative to traditional accommodations. The idea is to offer a clean and affordable place for foreigners to stay, usually with the intention of learning more about the community, culture, and traditions. If you are interested in learning more about a home stay in India, please read my recent article on Travelhoppers, titled Homestays in India.

One of our Sodha Travelers, Nanci Jackson, recently returned from Kerala. Her favorite accommodation during the trip was a home stay in Cochin, and here she shares a few enchanting memories:

It almost felt other-worldly to stay for three nights at the home of a local family in Kerala. The owners were truly gracious and accommodating and invited me to participate in their daily tasks. One morning, after a delicious breakfast that included a dosa, fresh fruit, coconut and local coffee, I went to the local market with the homeowner, Mrs. R. We shopped together for groceries and other items. In the evening, I helped her (or more realistically, watched her) prepare some traditional Keralan dishes. Watching her cook was like observing an artist create a masterpiece. There was such love in the preparation. Then, during dinner, we had a delightful conversation about India's culture, the people, and the way modernity is weaving a thread in the country's traditions. It was such a gift for me to have this encounter and stay with a local family. I highly recommend it for any of your travelers!

Thank you for sharing, Nanci. For more information on home stays in India, including the different categories and amenities, please contact our team!

Topics: India, Accommodations, Kerala

Allison Sodha

Written by Allison Sodha

As the President of Sodha Travel and author of Go! Girl Guides India, Allison has spent almost two decades exploring South Asia. She has a passion for creating experiences fueled by a deeper understanding of local communities.