Philippa Kaye is the UK trade representative for Community Homestay Network, working with travel advisors and suppliers that are looking to build memorable, sustainable community tourism experiences in Nepal into travellers’ itineraries. Philippa is one of the UK’s top specialists in southern Asia, having represented local operators in the region for more than 26 years.
Tell us about Community Homestay Network
Locally owned and operated, Community Homestay Network (CHN) is proud to work with 40 local communities in 23 destinations in Nepal. CHN is the brainchild of Nepalese entrepreneur, Shiva Dhakal, who had a vision to empower an additional 1,000 entrepreneurs across the country. He looked to do this by creating a network of homestays in Nepal, where families would use unused rooms in their own homes.
This not only creates women’s empowerment, but helps open up new destinations, offering truly authentic experiences in local communities, exploring their culture and way of life, and at the same time helping to prevent rural-to-urban migration. Dhakal supported the establishment of the first homestay in Panauti in 2012, with Community Homestay Network officially registering as a social enterprise in 2017. The CHN team provides marketing support to these communities, as well as hospitality training, based out of Kathmandu.
What are some of the common misconceptions around homestays, and what are they actually like?
In my previous experience in India and Sri Lanka, homestays tend to be run by people who are relatively affluent; middle and upper middle class families who have charming homes that operate more like small, luxury boutique hotels. The homestays run by Community Homestay Network in Nepal are more authentic, real family homes where the accommodation is simple but the experience and hospitality are second to none.
Another misconception is that because the accommodation is more basic, cleanliness and hygiene could be an issue, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. This is due to cultural beliefs about purity and the philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava – "guests are like gods" -– which is deeply rooted in Nepali hospitality.
There’s also a perception that homestays are in more rural areas of Nepal, but new destinations such as Kirtipur and Panauti are opening up. These are small towns that were previously unheard of on the travel circuit, but are now gaining popularity in part due to the work of CHN in developing local experiences – both homestays and daytime activities. This means travellers’ dollars are distributed directly into the hands of local communities that have not previously benefitted from tourism.
Can you share one of your own homestay experiences with us?
During my recent trip to the Dhankuta region in eastern Nepal with CHN, we were the only tourists there. Our host families worked together to ensure we had the most magical experience, and we were able to experience their local Indigenous culture through personal interactions, food and dance. It was so special for them to share this, and unforgettable for us as travellers knowing these customs are usually only shared within the community.
CHN enables these connections to happen, and when you feel embraced by the local community you develop a much deeper understanding for their way of life. It makes travel so much more meaningful and impactful when you can see you are making a difference to people’s everyday lives. I’ve always found that you arrive as strangers but leave as friends. It’s an exciting development for the tourism industry in Nepal to open up this type of travel. Community tourism is the future.
How would you describe the typical client who’s a great fit for a homestay?
Curious! And slightly adventurous. Accommodation is simple, rarely with ensuite facilities and often with shared bathrooms, but the experiences hosts offer provide a real insight into the lives of the Nepalese. They are warm, friendly and open to meeting new people, and as a result, the hosting is heartfelt. Travellers will experience everyday life, often in rural communities where the local culture is prevalent. They may get involved in farming, local festivals, head out on treks, and help to shop and prepare meals. It is a wonderful introduction into day-to-day life, and the broader cultures of both the different local communities and the country as a whole.
Why is there a growing trend for more homestays and community experiences?
Travellers want to have more meaningful experiences these days; they want to feel a sense of connection and have a tangible, meaningful experience in the destination, rather than the “one level removed” experience that hotels often provide. Travel should be a two-way exchange, with local people learning from us at the same time. One host told us that she loves having travellers visit as she can’t see the world, but now the world is coming to her. Homestays are also an affordable way to experience the country, making it more accessible while creating the kind of memories that budget hotels can’t provide. They also tend to be in areas that are less explored, allowing travellers to go deeper into a place and avoid over-tourism in a safe environment.
If an agent has a client who’s interested but they still have concerns about comfort level, what else can they offer?
We looked at this, as there are clients who prefer to stay in hotels, but still want to experience local life and have genuine cultural experiences in Nepal. For these travellers, CHN also offers a wonderful array of day experiences run by the local communities that travellers can enjoy before returning to their hotel. Options range from rural cycle rides, half- and full-day treks, painting classes, and momo-making experiences (momos are dumplings), through to shopping in the local markets, then cooking and eating dinner with a host family. Building these experiences into itineraries means travellers experience the true culture and regions of Nepal, while local communities benefit.
How can travel agents book CHN homestays?
Community Homestay Network invites agents to email directly for agent rates. Suppliers and tour operators may also connect if they are looking to add these extraordinary experiences to their current Nepal itineraries. For more information, please email: info@communityhomestay.com.
