Top 10 family-friendly homestays for you to enjoy
If you're stuck for some family holiday ideas, maybe it's worth considering a homestay for your next getaway. Homestays can offer a unique type of holiday but they’re also a great way for families to travel without expensive accommodation costs. Staying in a homestay allows the whole family the chance to experience the local culture, cuisine and traditions through the host family you’re staying with. We’ve picked ten family friendly homestays to show you where you could be travelling to next.
1. Qamea Island, Fiji
Nanise’s homestay is located in utter paradise. Nestled in Nadilo bay, this remote Qamea Island is known throughout the country for its splendid white sanded beaches and excellent surfing. Her homestay bures (traditional bungalows) are made entirely out of local materials and are available right on the beach front including a bure suitable for up to five people. Nanise welcomes families with children of all ages. There is a playground next to the homestay, the tide is very safe for swimming and arts and crafts activities can be organised for children so you can get some time to yourself.
2. Normandy, France
This beautiful rural farmhouse is home to host Susan and her family. Their homestay is surrounded by Normandy countryside with access to many walking and cycling tracks as well as local amenities. The home is ideal for a family holiday with a large ensuite family bedroom available, pool table, vast gardens and lots of animals – a dog, cat, goats and even two donkeys. It’s also only a couple of hours drive from Cherbourg Port if you’re arriving to France by ferry.
3. Oostende, Belgium
Julian’s modern, bright homestay is a stone’s throw away from the beach, the local swimming pool, supermarkets and the central part of the town. His home has a lovely large terrace overlooking the Belle Époque neighbourhood. If you’re travelling by ferry it is an hour’s drive from Calais port in France. Bruges and Ghent are close by with a short direct train to each, perfect for a day trip.
4. Malaga, Spain
Twenty minutes from the centre of Malaga, this stunning homestay villa has its own swimming pool and is only 200 metres from the beach. Marcela’s home is close to shops and bars dotted along the promenade. Enjoy a cold drink on the large terrace overlooking the pool and garden or relax inside the huge living area.
5. Orlando, Florida
Marcie’s homestay is very close to all family attractions including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and more. Her spacious homestay studio has its own kitchen and bathroom facilities, suitable for a big family. The home promises stunning views overlooking the lake, especially at sunset.
6. Faro, Portugal
This is definitely the perfect spot for a family homestay. Pedro’s home is spacious and has lots to keep children entertained. From a games area with table tennis, a library and TV downstairs to badminton in the back garden, your children will be happy for hours. The beach is a short drive from the home and there are lots of restaurants nearby serving traditional Portuguese cuisine.
7. Manchester, England
Manon and Paul moved to their home, The Coachman’s cottage, five years ago. They lovingly restored the cottage and are experienced homestay hosts. The home is close to Manchester airport and attractions such as Old Trafford football stadium and Alton Towers amusement park.
8. Queensland, Australia
Leanne’s home is walking distance from the incredible Palm Beach in Australia’s Gold Coast. Her home has a home gym, swimming pool and Jacuzzi for guests to use as well as a skate ramp, home theatre and games room for your children to enjoy. The homestay is close to Tallebudgeera Creek, Burleigh Headland, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and the famous Surfers Paradise as well as all major theme parks.
9. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Enjoy a trip off the beaten track with Lal and his wife Nalani. They’ll happily organise activities to keep you busy– from jeep safaris to bike hire. They also offer home cooked meals so you can try the local authentic cuisine. Located near Sigirya Rock, there really are loads of great sights to discover and capture here during your stay.
10. Rome, Italy
Stay with Alessandra Maria and her family in their home in the Regional Park of Veii for a taste of Italian life. Their bright, spacious villa has luscious gardens for you to enjoy. The homestay is a short distance from the metro which will bring you into central Rome to explore the sights of the Colosseum, the Pantheon and St. Peter's Basilica.
Book a homestay with Alessandra.
Written by Michelle O'Beirne
Michelle has loved travel since childhood, when her Mum joined an airline & she travelled with her everywhere from Bordeaux to Barbados.
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