Tourism, like many other industries, has evolved, leading to a wide variety of accommodations. Among so many options, guest houses stand out for combining the warmth of a home with essential services for your trip.

This is not a new type of lodging; on the contrary, it has been a popular alternative worldwide for centuries. Particularly because it offers a genuine and memorable experience without the need to spend too much.

Do you need more reasons why you should consider staying at a guest house for your next trip? Keep reading and discover its benefits, how it works, and how it differs from hotels and hostels.

Guest House: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It's a Great Option

What Is a Guest House?

A guest house is a type of private accommodation where property owners offer rooms to travelers or visitors.  It is essentially a residence adapted to accommodate guests.

Hospitality and first-class service are essential aspects of the experience in a guest house, often because the owners themselves manage everything.

Guest House Characteristics

Although we have already answered what a guest house is, its characteristics will help you understand the concept better.

Here are some of its main features:

• They tend to be small accommodations, with a limited number of rooms and a more intimate and tranquil environment compared to, for example, a hotel.

• Many are run by their owners.

• They offer a homely experience, with decor and spaces that reflect the host’s style and local culture.

• They do not typically offer shared dormitories.

• They attract travelers looking for comfort and tranquility.

Because of these features, in some places, they are referred to as guest lodges or homestays.

How Does a Guest House Work?

A guest house operates based on its size, location, and style. However, in general, they follow a flexible and personalized model:

Reservations

The first step is to make a reservation, which can be done directly with the owners, either in person or by phone.

It is also possible to book online through vacation rental platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.

Many owners list their properties on sites like Airbnb to promote their guest house and receive payments as hosts. These types of companies can show you a variety of options tailored to your needs, including monthly guest houses in Mexico City, furnished and with amenities like kitchen and Wi-Fi.

Check-in and Check-out

• Check-in is typically done directly with the host, who welcomes guests, hands over the keys, and provides information about the stay.

• Check-out requires returning the keys and ensuring the room is left in good condition.

The payment is usually made at check-in or check-out, depending on the property’s policy. Accepted payment methods vary, including cash, credit cards, or bank transfers.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The cleaning policy depends on the guest house. Some offer daily cleaning services, while others expect guests to maintain their own space, especially in shared areas.

Capacity and Atmosphere

Since guest houses are small accommodations, they usually have between 5 and 15 rooms. This limited capacity is precisely what makes them cozy and family-friendly.

Available Services

The amenities available depend on the type of guest house you choose. Some only offer lodging, while others include breakfast or additional meals.

However, luxuries like pools or gyms may not be available. Instead, many guest houses provide common areas like living rooms, gardens, or terraces where guests can relax and socialize.

Costs and Accessibility

Staying in a guesthouse can be cheaper than paying for a hotel. So it is a much more interesting alternative if you are looking for comfort and at the same time want to save while traveling.

It is worth mentioning that the rules and coexistence are adjusted to the policies of each property.

Guest House vs. Hotels: Key Differences

Guest houses and hotels offer different lodging experiences, each with unique advantages depending on the traveler’s needs.

Here are the main differences, including size, privacy level, cost, and available services:

Guest House vs. Hostels: Key Differences

Hostels are also more affordable accommodations than hotels but with different characteristics.

Here are the main differences between guest houses and hostels:

Benefits of Staying at a Guest House

Choosing a guest house for your stay provides a different experience from a hotel or hostel.

Some of the benefits include:

• Immersion in local culture. Especially if the hosts are residents who share local traditions, cuisine, and hidden spots.

• More flexible check-in and check-out schedules compared to hotels.

• Ideal for relaxation, as they are usually quieter than hotels or hostels.

• More affordable than hotels, offering a great balance of price and comfort.

• A cozier atmosphere compared to other accommodations.

• Essential services and facilities for a pleasant stay.

• Access to common areas like gardens, terraces, or shared kitchens.

• Easy online booking through platforms like Airbnb, Booking, or Expedia, where you can find affordable guest houses in Mexico City.

In short, a guest house combines comfort, personalized service, and a unique cultural experience.

Can You Stay for Free at a Guest House?

Yes, it is possible to stay for free at a guest house for a certain period through volunteer programs. This option involves exchanging a few hours of work per day for free accommodation, and in some cases, meals and other benefits.

Volunteers usually help with tasks such as:

• Cleaning.

• Reception.

• Preparing breakfast.

• Assisting guests.

In exchange, you can stay for free and access fascinating cultural experiences, living with locals and other travelers.

If this idea appeals to you, platforms like  Worldpackers can connect you with guesthouses in different countries. It's a great way to explore destinations, expand your network of contacts with people from around the world and reduce travel costs.

DolarCard: Pay for Your Expenses Abroad Without Extra Fees

If you travel abroad or make purchases in foreign currency, we have a practical solution for you: DolarCard. This is the card that we provide from the DolarApp application for international transactions.

DolarCard allows you to:

• Use your digital dollar balance abroad with no hidden fees.

• Pay in international stores without currency conversion surcharges.

• Withdraw cash from ATMs with a 1% fee on the withdrawn amount.

A great alternative to pay in digital dollars while avoiding high bank fees and unfavorable exchange rates.