There is something very fulfilling to me in making new friends and seeing new places. It's so exciting and there is no better way to see the world and meet new people than to participate in a homestay.

   I first got the travel bug at the ripe old age of 14, when I took part in an exchange program through my school. I did it every year for 4 years and became nearly fluent in German. The idea of the exchange was that I would stay with a host family for a week and then return the favour when my host came to visit the UK. We had a blast and I made a ton of friends that I never would have met otherwise. As a student it's ideal as I felt like I was being shown the 'real' Germany while I was helping to teach my host English. Both parties get a lot out of a homestay and the experience is truly incredible.

   But participants of a travel homestay do not necessarily have to be 14 and need parent permission to travel. There are homestays that can accommodate everybody, from single students to whole families. It's such a convenient way for you to see the world and it enables you to save the money that you would otherwise spend on accommodation for the more exciting stuff, like that city tour you've always wanted to try or that camel ride your kids have always wanted to take.

   In our current economic climate, budget travel is crucial and accommodation can really be a huge expense. but, it doesn't have to be when there are hundreds of families who are happy to share their home and help you explore your chosen destination.

   It's not just the traveller that reaps the benefits of a homestay though. The host family have a lot to gain from this new friendship. Travellers looking for a host family are able to provide help around the home in the form of pet sitting, tutoring, care for an elderly relative as well as other areas of support.

   There is nothing more comforting than having a support network around you when you are travelling and a homestay provides just that. I loved having a home away from home when I first spent time abroad and I'm certain there are other travellers out there who feel the same way. It definately opened my eyes to the fact that the world really is my oyster. There are so many places I haven't seen and so many people I haven't met yet. Why would I rely on a guide book to explore the globe when there are real families out there willing to show me?

   You can't beat experience and a travel homestay will certainly give you that. My first experience gave me itchy feet and I can't wait to get out there and see more of the world. Like I said before, the world is your oyster - enjoy it!