The travel and tourism industry is without a doubt one of the world’s largest industries. It creates jobs, drives exports, and generates prosperity across the globe.
According to statistics from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), this industry accounted for 10.4% of the global GDP and 313 million jobs, or 9.9% of total employment, in 2017.
One of the biggest rises in popularity, in terms of travel, is the emergence of homestays and vacation houses.
These have developed into genuine alternatives to hotels, especially for those travelling in large numbers.
As a matter of fact, most homestays these days provide just as much comfort for their guests as reputable hotels.
What’s more, services as Airbnb and Homestay.com make it easier for locals to turn their residences into homestays. If you’ve never stayed in one before, maybe it’s time to consider this option for your next getaway.
1. The Panoramic Seaview Cottage (Georgetown, Penang)
If you want a holiday with a view to die for, then the Panoramic Seaview Cottage in Georgetown, Penang is the place to be.
The living room is surrounded by a 180° high glass window overlooking crystal blue seas. The premise’s interior design is also gorgeous with super high ceilings, and a fully functional kitchen.
This luxurious duplex apartment can accommodate around seven guests, with costs per night ranging from RM260 to RM330.
2. Langkawi Chenang Private Residence (Langkawi)
As mentioned earlier, one of the advantages of homestays compared to hotels is that they offer much more camaraderie when you travel in a large group.
The Langkawi Chenang Private Residence can accommodate up to 16 guests and even offers access to a 30ft swimming pool and a six-foot kiddie pool – the perfect way to spend time with the family.
Expect to pay something in the range of RM1,500 per night here.
3. Rumah Persinggahan Ala Jawa Di Sawah Padi (Sungai Besar, Selangor)
For those on a budget and who would like to stay in a kampong (village) setting surrounded by paddy fields, this is a good option for you.
Sungai Haji Dorani in Sungai Besar is a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur with a mainly ethnic Javanese population.
Expect to see unique cultural performances in the area such as Kuda Kepang, Barongan, Gamelan, and Wau (traditional kite) flying. The food, too, reflects the customs and traditions of the Javanese.
Prices are around RM150 per night.
4. Agrofarmstay @ Skill-Tech (Durian Tunggal, Malacca)
This is a holiday vacation spot for nature lovers. It is set in a farm surrounded by rubber and palm oil plantations, colourful water lilies in serene ponds and orchards of various fruit trees.
There are many activities you can opt for here such as swimming, jogging, kayaking, barbecuing, karaoke-ing, fishing, petting animals and many more.
Prices start from RM88 per night (twin bedroom) to RM1,090 per night (nine room villa).
5. Masbro Village Boutique Homestay (Malacca)
Located around seven kilometres from Air Keroh, Melaka, Masbro Village Boutique Homestay offers a place to stay with unique architecture.
Each of the triangular houses here is equipped with fully functional kitchens and an outdoor swimming pool for both adults and children.
This homestay is able to accommodate up to six guests per house, with prices that start at RM280 per night.
6. RumahKebun (Hulu Langat, Selangor)
Located near the Semungkis River just a few kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur, RumaKebun is an ideal getaway for families and close friends.
With four bedrooms and 11 beds, it can accommodate up to 16 people. There is also a plunge pool fed by natural spring water.
Rates start at RM1,500 per night.
This article first appeared in BBazaar.my
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