As Goa gradually sheds its image as only a party destination, tourists are exploring a different side of the state. Homestay owners say this shift is reflected in where people choose to stay. While Goa once welcomed a much larger share of international visitors, domestic travellers now make up a significant part of the market, many of whom are actively looking for experiences rather than standard accommodation.
Culture, Comfort
and Connection
“People are definitely shifting towards a variety of stays and getting experiences of the local culture is usually on their itinerary, and homestays offer just that,” remarks Deepika Shrivastava, owner of Quirky Stays. According to her, travellers are increasingly looking for unique spaces that stand apart from conventional hotels. She mentions that even hotels have approached her for consultations regarding rental spaces because they see this as the next big thing in the industry. “An experience is also about how you make guests feel. As hosts, we spend time talking to them, understanding their plans and sharing local recommendations. This makes them feel welcome; hotels can’t do that," she adds.
When Roberto and Raquel Amaral, owners of "Cancio's House", started 20 years ago, homestays were largely unheard of. However, over the years, they have seen travellers become more curious about the state's lesser-known destinations. "Even before social media became influential, visitors had begun to realise that Goa offered much more than the popular tourist spots. There has been a gradual shift away from the busy coastline towards the scenic and peaceful hinterland," they say.
From Hotels to
Experience-Driven Stays
The growing popularity of alternative accommodation has also expanded the choices available to visitors. While hotels continue to offer comfort and professional service, many travellers today are searching for stays that feel more personal and immersive. "Hotels have traditionally followed a standard format. They offer excellent yet typical services, but many people now want to stay in spaces that are not typical and are experience-driven," say Siddhartha and Pavika, founders of Pause Project.
Privacy and Flexibility
Shrivastava believes privacy and flexibility are among the biggest reasons travellers choose homestays. Unlike a hotel room, many rental properties offer an entire home with a living room, kitchen and sometimes multiple bedrooms, making them especially suitable for families and groups. "Guests have much more privacy. Caretakers are available if needed, but they do not interfere. In hotels, only your room is private, while most other spaces are shared,” she mentions. Additionally, rental properties can also work out to be more economical for groups, and guests have greater freedom with fewer restrictions. “Every stay feels different, unlike the standard hotel setup. In hotels, you know what you are getting; in homestays and rental spaces, there is always a thrill and an element of surprise," she adds.
Lasting Holiday Memories
Roberto says traditional homestays offer something that cannot easily be recreated elsewhere. "Homestays allow visitors to experience family life, home-cooked meals, local traditions, festivals and culture through the eyes of their hosts,” he says. He believes that since the host family manages the stay themselves, it creates a personal connection that makes the experience truly immersive for the guest.
Siddhartha believes both hotels and homestays have their own place in Goa's tourism industry. "Homestays have always offered something priceless: the opportunity to live alongside locals and experience their culture,” he says. Thus, he maintains that these grounded moments often become lasting memories. “Homestay experiences tend to create a lasting impression, often transforming into a core memory for the guest. Hotels have the amenities but cannot provide the same experience. Yet, both have their audience, but people today have far more choice than they did a few years ago,” he reckons.
Whether travellers choose a luxury resort overlooking the sea or a quiet homestay tucked away in a Goan village, the definition of a holiday is clearly evolving. For many, the destination is no longer just about beaches or nightlife, but about the people they meet, the stories they hear and the places they discover along the way. As tourism continues to evolve, homestays are proving that sometimes the most memorable part of a trip is not where you go, but how you choose to stay.
