As more and more Americans are flocking to Cuba following the lifting of the international travel ban, many are opting for the experience of life with a local host through channels like Homestay.com.
The online marketplace is reporting growth in Cuba, with more travelers looking to rent rooms in private homes, with hosts present throughout the stay to ensure their comfort and security, while sharing their insider knowledge of Cuban culture.
Since its founding in 2013, Homestay.com has grown to 50,000 listings in more than 150 countries, among which Havana leads the top ten most popular cities for U.S. travelers, the company told Cuba Journal.
Travelers will also find listings in Trinidad, Vinales, and other parts of Cuba, where many hosts will go out of their way to arrange airport transports, tours, visits to attractions bicycle rentals, restaurant reservations, transportation to other Cuban locales and more.
Breakfast is always included, and many hosts will provide their guests with optional additional meals.
Hosts often speak several languages, including English.
During the booking process, guests and hosts get acquainted via the online messaging system, which includes a video chat option.
It’s a trend that’s likely to increase as hotel occupancy throughout the island continues to tighten: staying in authentic Cuban homes with real people — a new way to see the real Cuba.
