Family Homestay Adventure in Europe

Kayla and her husband Jason and two kids (Harlow and Oscar) from Brisbane, Australia stayed with 2 homestay hosts during their recent trip to Europe. Jason was over for a tour with his band Kingfisha and the kids and Kayla came to join him once he was finished. They are visiting France, Spain & Italy over 6 weeks and chose homestay for an authentic experience with local people in homely houses. Not sure if a homestay holiday is right for you and your family? Well read on to hear how much Kayla and her family enjoyed homestaying with their family.

Kayla and Jason in Paris

I would definitely recommend homestay for families to give the kids a little sense of a home away from home. Both of our hosts were more than helpful, both kind, easy to get along with & provided affordable accommodation.

First stop Paris

We stayed 4 nights with host Claudia outside Paris to get a flavour of French family lifestyle to explore the city for a more affordable price. Claudia was really helpful with tips on how to get more out of our trip to Paris. We stayed in her family room for €50 per night. We visited Disneyland on day two (day one was recovery from jet lag) & day three we took a cruise on the batoboat along the river to see the Eiffel Tower, St Germain & Notre Dame. All spectacular and easy to plan with our amazing hosts local knowledge.

Claudia's Home

Oscar and Harlow at Disneyland Paris

Harlow and Kayla at the Eiffel Tower

On to Barcelona

We stayed 4 nights in Stefania's charming art filled home in Barcelona. We had the loft room all to ourselves with a private balcony for €95 per night. The location in the Gothic Quarter is ideal to explore the city. Day one we explored the beaches frequented by locals that Stefania recommended. They served good paella/sangria/tapas right on the beach. The kids had a ball & they both adored her little dog who shared the same name as our boy Oscar!

Double room in Barcelona

Day two we took the open top bus to explore the history and Gaudi architecture of Barcelona, it was amazing but we were all exhausted by the end and enjoyed relaxing on Stefania's private rooftop terrace (with beds for the kids to fall asleep). Day three we ventured to Sitges, a typical (stunning) Mediterranean seaside town, I think I could live there... we all enjoyed Spanish food on the beachfront + there was a trampoline with a harness that made it "one of the best days" for the kids. I definitely recommend a stay in Barcelona with Stefania!

Jason and the kids in Sitges

So are you convinced on homestays for your next family adventure?

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