Your ultimate guide to finding a home away from home

Ever felt the longing for a place that feels just as warm and welcoming as your own house, even when you're miles away? That's the magic of finding a home away from home. 

It’s not about lavish stays or tourist traps; it’s about connection, comfort, and the little joys of feeling at ease wherever you are. Whether you’re an adventurous soul wandering into unknown territories or someone seeking solace in new cities, this guide is crafted for you.

• Also, take a look at: What is a homestay? Unlocking the local experience with Worldpackers and Explore house sitting jobs for affordable travel.

Discovering your home away from home

Snagging that perfect home away from home boils down to picking the best spot and really getting a feel for the local vibe. It's not just about picking a place that looks good in pictures, but one that speaks to your soul.

When you find that perfect spot, it's like a little piece of your heart stays there forever. And the best part? You get to keep going back, again and again, to relive those memories and make new ones.

1. Choosing the right destination

So, how do you choose the right destination for your home away from home? Start by thinking about what makes you happy. Is it the sound of waves crashing on the shore? The smell of pine trees in the mountains? The hustle and bustle of a big city?

Once you've got a general idea, start researching specific locations that fit the bill. Look for places that have the activities and amenities you enjoy, whether that's hiking trails, great restaurants, or cultural attractions.

Don't be afraid to think outside the box, either. Sometimes the best home away from home is a place you never would have thought of before. That's the beauty of travel - it opens your mind to new possibilities.

2. Understanding local culture

Once you've chosen your destination, it's time to dive into the local culture. This is what will really make your home away from home feel like, well, home.

Start by learning a few key phrases in the local language. Even if you're not fluent, making an effort to communicate with locals in their own tongue goes a long way. It shows respect and opens doors to authentic experiences.

Next, seek out local festivals and events. These are great opportunities to immerse yourself in the community and get a taste of what life is really like there. From food festivals to music performances, there's always something happening if you know where to look.

And last but not least, don't hesitate to chat with the locals. Ask for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and explore. You could stumble upon treasures you didn't even know were out there, or forge friendships that last a lifetime.

"Travel is not really about leaving our homes, but leaving our habits." - Pico Iyer

3. Living with locals

When it comes to truly immersing yourself in a new culture, there's nothing quite like living with locals. It's a unique experience that goes beyond the typical tourist traps and lets you see a place through the eyes of those who know it best.

One of the biggest benefits of staying with locals is the insider knowledge you gain. Your hosts can tell you about the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, the most scenic hiking trails, and the local customs you might not find in any guidebook.

But it's not just about the practical advice. Living with locals also gives you a chance to form deep, meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds. You'll sit down to share meals, exchange stories, and see the world through a fresh set of eyes.

Plus, staying with locals is often more affordable than booking a hotel or vacation rental. By choosing more wallet-friendly lodging options, you're not just saving cash—you're also diving headfirst into a travel experience that feels more genuine and rich.

• You might also like: HomeExchange: the growing trend for purposeful travel.

So, how do you go about finding local hosts? Here is where Worldpackers comes in. This platform connects travelers with locals who need help with various projects, from farming to childcare. In exchange for a few hours of work each day, you receive free accommodation and other benefits, such as meals and tours.

Are you curious about the homestay opportunities you can find with Worldpackers? Here's a glimpse of some exciting opportunities around the world:

1. United States: Immerse yourself in American culture by staying with a host family in Seattle. Assist with daily tasks and care for their dogs while exploring the Pacific Northwest.
2. India: Experience India's culture with the Bihar Project, focusing on sustainable housing. Contribute skills in childcare, animal care, gardening, and maintenance.
3. Australia: Explore Australia while living with a host family in the rainforest. Assist with maintenance, construction, and painting.
4. United Kingdom: Discover British traditions with a UK homestay, focusing on family life. Volunteer in a home with dogs and a productive garden.
5. Canada: Connect with Canadian hosts in a rural home by a lake. Assist with household tasks and care for various animals.
6. Mexico: Experience living in the heart of Puebla, Mexico, within a 17th-century mansion. Assist with tasks like cooking, painting, and organizing.

You can connect with these and thousands of other verified hosts. Hundreds of projects join Worldpackers monthly, all individually verified and monitored by the Worldpackers team to ensure positive experiences. Check out the search page and find the perfect position for you.

4. Community engagement abroad

When you're living abroad, it's easy to get caught up in your own little bubble. But if you really want to feel at home in your new community, there's no better way than by giving back.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet new people, and make a positive impact. And the best part? It doesn't have to be a huge commitment. Even a few hours a week can make a big difference.

So, where do you start? Dig around for community groups that match up with what you're passionate about and stand for. Maybe it's a local animal shelter, a community garden, or a youth mentorship program.

You can also rely on Worldpackers to find opportunities in your area and in other countries. And don't be afraid to ask around - your local expat community or host family might have some great suggestions.

5. Building connections through service

Volunteering isn't just about the work itself - it's also about the connections you make along the way. You'll meet locals who share your passions and values, and you might even make some lifelong friends.

And hey, when you start pitching in and helping out around your neighborhood, it's like magic – suddenly, you find yourself feeling way more connected to where you live. You'll care about the people and the place in a deeper way. And that sense of connection and belonging? That's what really makes a place feel like home.

6. Exploring local hangouts: cafes and shops

When you're living in a new place, it's easy to stick to the touristy spots. But if you really want to immerse yourself in the local culture, you've got to venture off the beaten path.

One of the best ways to do that? Exploring the neighborhood cafes and shops. These are the places where locals hang out, catch up with friends, and go about their daily lives. And by becoming a regular, you'll start to feel like part of the community.

7. Finding neighborhood gems

So, how do you find these hidden gems? Kicking things off, don't hesitate to hit up the locals for their top picks. Your host family, language exchange partner, or even the barista at your favorite coffee shop might have some great suggestions.

You can also just wander around your neighborhood and see what catches your eye. Look for places with a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a loyal customer base. And don't be afraid to try something new - whether it's a traditional pastry or a locally-brewed beer.

8. Supporting local businesses

By becoming a regular at your neighborhood cafés and shops, you're not just immersing yourself in the local culture - you're also supporting the local economy.

These small businesses are often the heart and soul of a community. Opting to spend your cash at smaller, local businesses instead of the big-name stores plays a huge part in keeping the community lively and full of energy.

Plus, you might just discover some amazing hidden treasures - whether it's a vintage boutique, a specialty food store, or a quirky gift shop. So go ahead and explore - your new favorite spot is waiting to be discovered.

9. Connecting with expatriate communities

But did you know that connecting with expatriate communities can help ease those feelings and make your experience more enjoyable?

Expatriate communities are groups of people from your home country who are also living abroad. They're like a cozy blanket or a familiar face when you're miles away from home.

So, how do you find these expatriate groups? One great resource is "InterNations", a website that connects expats around the world. They have local communities in many cities where you can attend events and meet other expats.

Another option is to search for Facebook groups specific to your nationality and location. For example, if you're an American living in Paris, you might search for "Americans in Paris" and join the group to connect with others.

10. Immersing in local events and festivals

While connecting with expatriate communities is important, it's also crucial to immerse yourself in the local culture of your new home. Hitting up local events and festivals is a fantastic way to dive into this.

Not only are these events a fun way to experience new traditions and customs, but they can also help you feel more connected to your new community.

To find out about these local events and traditions, kick things off by hitting the web for some initial digging, or even better, chat up the locals to snag their top tips. A lot of towns and cities are stepping up their game by using websites or even social media to spread the word about fun events coming your way.

You can also check with your local tourism office or expat groups for suggestions. They might just let you in on some little-known festivals or traditions that could have easily slipped under your radar.

Ready to find a home away from home?

We've journeyed through alleyways of unfamiliar cities and lounged in quaint cafes that whispered stories only locals know. The essence of creating a home away from home lies not just in places but within people and experiences. 

Remember, every corner turned offers an opportunity to weave another layer into your tapestry of memories. So keep exploring with an open heart.

This isn’t merely travel; it's collecting pieces of the world to call yours - making anywhere feel like home. Here’s hoping each step outside brings a piece back that fits perfectly into your puzzle. Safe travels!

• Want to learn more about planning your trip? By subscribing to the WP pack plan you have unlimited access to +120 courses at Worldpackers Academy, the travel school made by travelers!