Homestays & Local Immersion Small Ship Cruise Tours &...

Homestays & Local Immersion Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

2,651 Homestays & Local Immersion trips. Tours from 261 tour companies. 9,804 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating.

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Small Ship Cruise
Holland & Belgium Bike & Boat: Amsterdam to Bruges
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Amsterdam, Antwerp, Barge, Bruges, Holland

Highlights

  • Cycle along tranquil rivers and past meadows, dairy farms, quaint villages, and polder countrysides.
  • Get acquainted with local people—and local life—during a visit to a family home.
  • Join a local guide for a boat tour of Ghent, whose history dates to around 600 AD.
  • View the famous Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO Heritage site.
  • Sip authentic Belgian beer during a special tasting on board.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"This trip is unbelievably fantastic. Two of the best rides of my life, were on this tour. The guides were very good and this was just the start, when we met them, at the hotel in Cortina. Cortina was the site of the 1956 Olympics, and is a small pretty village. Nothing was open the two nights we were there, so probably bad timing. Hotel was a typical ski village hotel, good Italian/German food, and very comfortable. Second day of biking was up an old railroad spur that is now a ski trail about 15-20 K up to a mountain pass called Cimabanche Pass, which is beautiful. We rode up in a snow storm, then rain, then finally clear skies. This was the number two best ride of my life. Starting out from the hotel in Cortina, up the old spur, through single track bike trails, past babbling brooks, up to this fabulous mountain pass. This is now where the fun starts. Mostly downhill on paved roads very little traffic, at good speeds, through the most spectacular valleys you would ever see on a bike ride. Breathtaking. It had to end back at the hotel for a big dinner. The best ride of my life was the last biking day out of Merano. We were bused up 1500 K, about 85-90 miles to Lake Resia, high up in the Dolomites, then rode around the lake, down, back to Merano. High mountain peaks, many valleys,small towns, many grape growing farms, scenery, the best, and cool brisk weather. This was truly a great bike tour, one I will never forget. The trip is rated easy, but maybe easy/moderate is closer. The Hotel in Merano is excellent, middle of old town, modern, has a thermal bath, rooms were very good. The town of Merano is a must see if in the area, small, beneath the high mountains of the Dolomites, good restaurants, lots of tourists."

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A Trip to Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete
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By Greece Insiders
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
Designing original, innovative, and out-of-the-box travel itineraries and incredible personalized service.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chania, Delphi, Delphi Museum, Heraklion, Mykonos, Santorini

Highlights

  • Divine Delphi and Galaxidi Excursion
  • MykonosBeaches
  • Caldera Sunset Cruise Lagoon 560
  • Knossos and Archaeological Museum
  • Falassarna & Water Sports
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Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Normally, I don't feel like writing reviews, but I felt compelled to do it for Athens Insiders. I made the decision to travel to Athens in the summer of 2012 in order to avoid the commotion that was predicted to result from the Queen's jubilee. As usual, my work kept me busy right up to the last minute, so I ran out of time to do anything fun for my week-long trip. I learned about this young group of tour guides for Athens and its vicinity from a friend. I had a wonderful experience. I got in touch with Daphne, who gave me email recommendations for Athens attractions to see, inquired about my preferences for local cuisine, and then devised an itinerary for my trip. In addition to visiting the typical suspects in Athens (Acropolis, etc.), I also chose to travel to Delhi and spend a night at a campground there. And I had a great time, honestly. We visited the attractions when there were few visitors and spent the busiest times outside of Athens rather than being herded around like cattle. I was taken to incredible tiny eateries (the well-known tavernas), marketplaces, and other regional shops."

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Exquisite Vietnam In 13 Days
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Ba Vi, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Mai Chau, Phu Quoc

Highlights

  • Get off the beaten path and immerse yourself into the local lifestyle in the villages of Ba Vi and Mai Chau.
  • See the most scenic sceneries in Halong Bay.
  • Shout yourself with the relaxing beach break at tropical Phu Quoc island.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

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Cambodia To Vietnam By Waterway Deluxe Tour In 15 Days
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Phnom Penh , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Explore the wondrous ancient temples complex of Angkor Wat
  • Cross the border between Cambodia and Vietnam by speed boat
  • Take an overnight river cruise along the Mekong river
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of Central Vietnam
  • Meet with a Vietnam war veteran and visit his tea plantation
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Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

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Tranquil Vietnam In 15 Days
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Mekong Delta, Mekong River

Highlights

  • Enjoy the most breathtaking sceneries of Vietnam.
  • Get close to nature and cycle throught the green rice fields and Vietnamese countryside.
  • Take an overnight cruise in Halong Bay.
  • Try the delicious street food of Vietnam and learn how to cook local dishes.
  • Soak up the majesty of the ancient imperial city Hue.
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Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

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14 Days Authentic Vietnam and Cambodia
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By S Vietnam Adventures
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
49 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Halong Bay , Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Killing Fields, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh , Sapa, Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Explore the rich culture and history of Hanoi's Old Quarter.
  • Spend a night cruising through the majestic landscapes of Halong Bay.
  • Experience the serenity of Hoi An's ancient town.
  • Discover the impressive tower temples of My Son Holy Land.
  • Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City.
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Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

""it was so nice to meet you even though it was brief "

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Italy - Your Way
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5/5 Excellent
9 reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They go the extra mile to cater to travelers of all abilities by limiting hotel transfers, choosing accessible tour routes and more.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Florence, Milan, Naples, Pisa, Rome, Sicily, Tuscany, Venice, Verona

Highlights

  • Tours designed especially for you and your travel companions
  • Tours from $2,000 to $10,000, per person, working within your budget to find the best options for you
  • Arranged and designed tours for all aspects or portions of your journey
  • Private and small group day tours available
  • Travel at your pace
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Themes

Birding, Climbing & Mountaineering, Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography, Festivals & Special Events, Religious

What travelers are saying

"I've traveled to Europe several times before but not like this. Thanks to Kelley and her amazing knowledge and patience with all my queries, my famiy and I enjoyed a customized itinerary filled with a food tour in Paris and a cooking lesson in Naples, history and art lessons at the British Museum and Musee D'Orsay, with enough time to travel independently and make new discoveries with less hassle than before. I absolutely recommend the Relaxed Explorer to anyone looking to make memorable trips with their families that will be cherished by all. Thank you so much Kelley!! Would love to make more good travel memories with your help!!"

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Italy - Your Way
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
9 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They go the extra mile to cater to travelers of all abilities by limiting hotel transfers, choosing accessible tour routes and more.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Florence, Milan, Naples, Pisa, Rome, Sicily, Tuscany, Venice, Verona

Highlights

  • Tours designed especially for you and your travel companions
  • Tours from $2,000 to $10,000,per person, working within your budget tofind the best options for you
  • Arranged and designed tours for all aspects or portions of your journey
  • Private and small group day tours available
  • Travel at your pace
Show more

Themes

Birding, Climbing & Mountaineering, Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Photography, Festivals & Special Events, Religious

What travelers are saying

"I've traveled to Europe several times before but not like this. Thanks to Kelley and her amazing knowledge and patience with all my queries, my famiy and I enjoyed a customized itinerary filled with a food tour in Paris and a cooking lesson in Naples, history and art lessons at the British Museum and Musee D'Orsay, with enough time to travel independently and make new discoveries with less hassle than before. I absolutely recommend the Relaxed Explorer to anyone looking to make memorable trips with their families that will be cherished by all. Thank you so much Kelley!! Would love to make more good travel memories with your help!!"

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Homestays & Local Immersion Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
9,804  Reviews
See all Homestays & Local Immersion tour reviews
Excellent
5,897
Great
2,080
Average
346
Disappointing
88
Terrible
47
I

Ida

Oct 2015

Written on

A great variety of experiences (learning about

A great variety of experiences (learning about culture, but also being in nature and doing some more physically challenging activities). Great tour leader and great ...

B

Begum

Oct 2015

Written on

I love our tour leader Edith and

I love our tour leader Edith and the support we got from her was excellent!

P

Paul

Sep 2015

Written on

I felt we covered a lot in

I felt we covered a lot in a short time and there was a flexible app...

g

geraint

Sep 2015

Written on

Great country, people, food and quality of

Great country, people, food and quality of the trip & leader

X

Xiao

Sep 2015

Written on

I thoroughly enjoyed my Intrepid tour and

I thoroughly enjoyed my Intrepid tour and all the optional activities on offer. It's great to travel with the comforts of having transport and accommodation already ...

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Homestays & Local Immersion Tour Selection Trips

  • Do your research and ask questions. Homestays can be a wonderful insight into local life, but occasionally hotels are falsely advertised as "home stays".
  • Be a courteous guest. Tidy up after yourself, and look out for house rules, such as taking your shoes off before entering. Your host should enjoy having you as much as you enjoy staying there!
  • Stretch beyond your comfort zone! You may encounter squat toilets, cold showers and strange new foods, but it's all part of the experience. And who knows, you may find you have a taste for boiled frog or fried crickets.
  • Spend time with your hosts. A homestay is more than simply renting a room - it is a chance to get involved with a family's way of life. And don't forget that the reason many people agree to host is to learn about your culture, too.

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