Hospitality Exchange is Here to Stay

by Lauren on February 9, 2010

When I am talking about Casa Casa to folks who are familiar with hospitality exchange, they immediately get it. “Oh, it’s like Couchsurfing for grownups!” one travel blogger observed. “I love staying in B&Bs, but they’re so expensive. This is a great alternative,” said a friend in Chicago who joined Casa Casa on the spot.

Even if you haven’t yet experienced it for yourself, there is something you should know: hospitality exchange has gone mainstream, and is clearly here to stay!

In fact, this great way of traveling is not exactly new; hospitality exchange is as old as leisure travel itself. Yet over the past decade, thanks to clubs like the Affordable Travel Club and online networks like Couchsurfing, this budget, community-oriented way to travel has found many new followers.

And now with Casa Casa, I hope to help bring hospitality exchange to thousands more.

What makes hospitality exchange with Casa Casa unique? Travelers with discerning tastes enjoy that Casa Casa homestays are much like staying in a bed and breakfast, on a budget. Others will appreciate that the club is supported by a staffperson (me!) who is available to assist members if they need any help with the process of arranging a homestay, or just have a question or concern.

How it works is simple. As a traveler with Casa Casa, you stay in guest rooms in private homes of friendly members and pay your hosts a small gratuity. When you host travelers in your home, you provide your guest room, some warm hospitality, and share a favorite breakfast recipe.

What’s the draw? It’s not just about budget travel (though paying a mere $15 gratuity to your host per night through Casa Casa is certainly a primary benefit.) Hospitality exchange is also about growing your community and making new friends. It connects you with real people from the places you visit, adding value your travel experiences and making them more unique.

Check out the frequently asked questions for more information.

It’s just $20 to join. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try! Join Casa Casa now.

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