Where the growth is: Experiences round the stay

The home-stay market is increasingly about more than just providing a roof and bed. The expansion is driven by “experiences” – what occurs during the stay. For hosts and platforms, this presents significant opportunities.

• Travelers now desire immersion: staying in local neighborhoods, engaging with local culture, and meeting hosts instead of anonymous check-ins.

• Platform models are evolving: the brand we mentioned (Airbnb) has introduced “Services” in addition to stays (such as in-home chefs, massages, personal trainers) in selected cities.

• Emerging markets hold untapped potential: with rising middle classes, domestic travelers, and interest in “stay-cations” or regional getaways. For your region (South Africa, Africa), you can focus on experiential stays (such as safari-adjacent home-stays, township tourism, wine-region hosting).

• From a business model perspective: you can combine stay + experience + service. Price accordingly. Market the host not just as a property provider but as a curator of local experiences. By building your platform with an experience-focused approach—training hosts, promoting experiences, and connecting to guest desires (comfort + local story + service)—you align with where growth is heading.