Whenever I travel to a new destination, I always make a new friend. That’s because I always stay with someone in his or her home. I rent out home shares instead of apartments because it seems to be the best way to travel. Not only do I meet new people but I also get introduced to the area, learn new things and save some money in the process.

I love staying with strangers in a new destination because they give me information about the area that I can’t get from a tour guide. I learned about the best spaghetti in Rome and the best shopping deals in New York from the people that I stayed with when I visited.

I also learn about new things that don’t have anything to do with the area. One woman made handmade European toys and educational games so I learned about that while I stayed with her. Another invited me to stay on a farm with her where I learned about living the rural life.

I would enjoy this method of travel even if it cost a lot of money. It’s a nice perk, though, that staying with strangers tends to be even cheaper than staying in hotels!