What is "homestay"

n. 1 a system whereby students visiting a foreign country to study board with a local family at an affordable price 2 a house used primarily as the residence of the owner but with the business of accommodating paying guests

Homestay is a form of tourism or study abroad that allows visitors to rent rooms from local families. It is sometimes used by people who wish to improve their language skills and become familiar with the local lifestyle.

Some countries encourage homestay as a means of developing their tourism industry. Hosting a homestay participant allows the host family to earn an income. Students tend to arrange a homestay with their school or educational institution, but they can informally arrange one through social connections and private agencies that connect students with hosts families, usually for a nominal fee.