Why Homestays Beat Residences: Getting Back to What Really Matters

When choosing accommodation for international students, it’s easy to be dazzled by glossy residence brochures featuring state-of-the-art gyms, modern common areas and sleek facilities. But at Hosts International, we believe the best student experiences come from getting back to basics and providing a real home away from home.

The risk-free, flexible solution

Unlike residences that require committed bed bookings and longer contracts, homestays are far more flexible. There’s no financial risk and no lengthy advance commitments that tie up your budget. You book what you need, when you need it, making homestays an incredibly affordable option that adapts to your actual student numbers rather than rigid accommodation contracts.

Affordable and inclusive for all students

One of the most important advantages of homestays is cost. In most cases, homestays are around 50% cheaper than residence options, making them accessible to a wider range of students. With the rising cost of living affecting every aspect of a student's journey, from tuition fees and flights to accommodation and transport, choosing a homestay is the ideal solution to keep their UK / Ireland study experience affordable and accessible to all.

Safety and security through human connection

While residences might boast security systems and key cards, homestays provide something far more valuable, and that’s genuine care from local families. Students live with carefully vetted host families who offer not just a room, but a support system. These families can give guidance, local knowledge and a safe environment where students are genuinely looked after, not just housed.

A real home experience

Even with their flashy amenities, residents can’t really replicate the warmth of a family dinner table or the comfort of having someone who genuinely cares about your wellbeing. In a homestay, students benefit from authentic cultural immersion, home-cooked meals and the invaluable experience of living as part of a local family. This personal touch creates memories and language learning opportunities that no gym or common room can match.

Back to basics: What students really need

At the end of the day, students don’t need another institutional building. Instead, they need a home. Staying with a host family offers the personal attention, cultural authenticity and genuine care that transforms a study abroad experience from simply educational to truly life-changing. Ready to give yourself or your students a real home experience at a cost they can afford? Contact Hosts International today to learn more about our vast homestay accommodation options.