Making your homestay feel like home is important, whether you’re hosting young children, teenagers, families, or adults.
Not only will adding a few home comforts and inviting touches to your guest room and wider accommodation will keep feelings of homesickness at bay.
They’ll also help guests settle in faster and enrich the experience as a whole. All of this will help your guests enjoy every moment, relish the opportunities that a homestay unlocks and leave you a positive review in return.
Bringing more happiness to your homestay is more possible than ever. The Hygge movement is teaching us to do just that, whatever the property size, guest age, or home-improvement budget. Hygge - pronounced “hoo-go” - is no new thing. It’s been driving home décor trends for a number of years.
Here VisitDenmark – the country where Hygge is said to originate - explains exactly what Hygge is:
“In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Cosying up with a loved one for a movie – that’s hygge, too.
And there's nothing more hygge than sitting around with friends and family, discussing the big and small things in life. Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are some of the happiest people in the world.”
Hygge isn’t just a décor trend, it’s a way of life. But you can easily Hygge your home to guarantee a happier homestay experience. Hygge can also help with language learning, here’s how…
Clear the decks for study
With Hygge, it’s important to remember that less is more. Simplicity is a key principle of Hygge with the streamlined aesthetic favoured above all else. Your Hygge space doesn’t have to feel sparse or cold, however.
‘Hyggeing’ your homestay should begin with a good clear out. A disorganised space makes for a messy mind. This will not only affect you as a host or teacher but impact your homestay guests.
Make sure your guests have the environment they need to thrive. Promote positivity and productivity by presenting homestay accommodation that is clutter-free and clean to ensure a clear mind made for studying.
Decluttering promotes happiness too. Tidy and organised spaces have been proven to reduce stress and boost motivation, two qualities that are useful when learning a new language.
Energise with more greenery
Greenery is a vital aspect of Hygge so embrace all things natural within your homestay. Decorate your homestay with flowers, plants, and wood. In addition to promoting happiness, the presence of flowers, plants, and other natural touches all have an energising effect. By bringing the outside in, wellbeing and cosiness are instantly lifted.
Air quality is another thing improved by adding more greenery. Your guests are also certain to love reconnecting with nature during their stay.
Create snugs for language learning
Whatever the weather outside, a sense of home comes with feeling at your cosiest. You can ensure a heartfelt welcome and relaxing stay for every homestay guest by creating a space that feels like a warm hug.
In addition to lighting candles and adding some cosy throws to chairs and beds, create a relaxing nook or snug for your guests to enjoy. This comfy snug will double as their own private haven. It’ll be the perfect spot for relaxation, reading and most importantly revising those language skills.
Add more books
There’s nothing like the great embrace of a captivating story so make sure exciting adventures can be had by all guests not just outside of your home but inside.
You don’t have to have room for a dedicated library. Just a selection of books presented in your guest room or on a shelf in the living area can provide the resources guests need to embrace their inner bookworm during their stay. Choose interesting titles that relate to travel or language learning and inspire their journey further.
Books are also an ideal way to bond with your homestay guests and discover more about their passions and interests. You could even ask your homestay guests to bring their favourite book along for both of you to share.
Personalise guest welcomes
Be sure to present a warm welcome as soon as your guests arrive with a bit of personalisation. But don’t go overboard when planning your personalised welcome. Getting to know your homestay guests before their arrival is the key to gathering the information you need to personalise their welcome the right way.
Thoughtfulness goes a long way, especially when helping your guests feel at home and promoting the happiness that Hygge is all about. As well as giving guests some items that are personal to them and will enhance their stay, don’t be afraid to share what’s personal to you.
A selection of your favourite teas or some helpful notes detailing the favourite parts of your hometown will be greatly appreciated.
Already a member? Search for a language experience or update your profile here. Haven’t signed up already? Start your profile here right away.
