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What Is A Guest House? [Traveler’s Guide, FAQ]
What Is A Guest House?
A guest house (also spelled “guesthouse”) is a type of accommodation where the traveler stays in a home hosted by a local resident. Guest houses are typically less expensive, more personalized and less formal than hotel stays. In some places, guest houses are the most common and/or only type of lodging available.
There are a few key differences between guest houses and similar lodging types (like motels, inns, boarding rooms, casitas, home stays and bed and breakfasts). To read about those similarities and differences, click here. As someone who’s stayed in 50+ guest houses all around the world, I believe that every traveler should experience a guest house at least once.
In this guide, we’ll cover what a traveler should know about guest houses.
We’ll explore the brief history of guest houses, how they work, what they’re like inside, what to bring to a stay, 4 reasons to experience a guest house, 8 types of guest houses, the type of traveler that typically stays in a guest house, plus 17 frequently asked questions regarding guest house accommodation.
*Agoda.com is one of the best places to find and book guest houses online. To see today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
Table of Contents
Brief History Of Guest Houses
The history of guest houses can be traced to antiquity. Perhaps the most well-known and earliest examples of guest houses were the lodging built all along the Silk Road - the famous network of overland trade routes that spanned from Far East Asia to Europe.
Silk Road map (land and sea routes) - Silkroadtravel.com
Finding a safe place to sleep has always been a very important travel logistic. During the Silk Road era (beginning 2nd Century BCE), savvy businessmen built secure lodging for caravaners transporting goods across long distances. These structures were called “caravanserais” (also called khans, hans, wikalas, funduqs, etc. - depending on the locale).
Caravans were vulnerable to bandit raids while crossing deserts and steppes
Caravanserais were the “original” guest houses, inns, motels and hostels (the term “guest house” was not widely used until much more recently). These were strategically built, such that travelers could move from one roof to the next on a reliable schedule. Terrain conditions determined a typical day’s travel distance (usually between 15 to 25 kilometers). Caravans often included camels and/or other “beasts of burden”.
Sultan Han caravanserai (modern-day Turkey)
Caravanserais ranged in price (including taxes/duties) and amenities (such as baths for people, fodder for animals, etc.). Some were in cities like Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and Cairo (urban caravanserais are called “wikala” in Arabic), while others were more rurally located, such as those in deserts or steppes.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and leisure travel became much more accessible to the average person. Since the 1950s, the number of guest houses has grown exponentially around the world, especially along the backpacker trails in Europe and Asia. Guest houses have developed unique regional styles, from South America to Japan and India, attracting travelers of varying tastes and budgets. Sites like Agoda.com help guest houses gain exposure online, and provide travelers with an incredible selection to choose from.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
How Guest Houses Work
Guest house hosts usually live in or nearby the same property as their guests. Guest house properties can be standalone houses or apartments and can offer a range of sleeping options, from single beds to multi-room private units. They can range from offering only one room to more than a dozen full units.
Guest houses cater to various tastes and price points. You’ll see budget, luxury, urban and rural. Some guest houses foster a social environment, some function as a hub for multi-day hikers, and some provide seclusion in a natural setting. To learn all about the 8 types of guest houses (with 5 examples of each), click here.
Some guest houses are even known for the meals they provide. For example, the guest houses located along multi-day hiking routes (like popular trails in Nepal’s Himalayas) will serve breakfast and dinner at specific times each day. These guest houses are an integral part of hikers’ schedules, as there are few lodging and food options in the highest mountain range in the world.
Many guest houses only accept cash payment. This is particularly common in cash-based economies, like in parts of Eastern Europe, South Asia, Central America and Africa. Sites like Agoda.com let you reserve with a card but pay your host in-person (in local currency).
Guest house cleanliness standards have also improved significantly over the past few decades. These days, a guest house’s common areas, bathrooms and kitchen are all expected to be cleaned daily (and the bedrooms cleaned between guest stays). All the guest houses on Agoda.com have a cleanliness rating (from 1-10).
Guest houses tend to operate less “commercially” and are less “structured” than hotels are. The atmosphere can feel more like a home rather than a business, and rules often aren’t particularly rigid (like earliest check-in time, for example). This makes guest houses ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, homely atmosphere.
Guest houses are often family-owned and operated. Many do not hire outside staff. Hosts may handle all duties, or split them amongst family members. For example, a host’s brother could be a guide/driver and her grandmother might cook the breakfast. The eggs in an omelette may be from the family’s chickens, the vegetables from their garden and water from a spring.
Waterfront guest houses
In a hotel, employees ensure operations run smoothly. This makes hotels more efficient, but results in a less personal atmosphere. If you prefer speedy, streamlined services (like an airport pick-up and luggage support), consider booking a hotel rather than a guest house.
I prefer to stay in hotels when I’m seeking comfort in a city, but enjoy the laid-back guest house atmosphere when in remote, rural areas. This lets me experience the uniqueness of a place, converse with the locals and eat homemade food. It enriches the travel experience.
Empty hotel lobby
Staying in a guest house allows you to experience the local culture from a resident’s perspective (daily life, cuisine, customs). In guest houses, it’s very common to share a meal or drinks with your host and/or other guests. In chain hotels, stays are usually more generic (and predictable, as if the hotel could be anywhere).
Many guest houses were initially built as residential family homes, then were later modified to host guests. This is why hosts often live within or nearby the same property as their guests, and why many guest houses only have one shared kitchen in the entire property.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
Inside A Guest House (What It’s Like)
In this section, we’ll briefly cover what it’s like inside a guest house, so you’ll know what to expect before you arrive. Guest houses can vary in size, design, amenities and features, but you’ll find most guest houses around the world are divided into four main sections.
The 4 sections of a guest house are:
Reception
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Common Areas
Reception
Unlike hotels, guest houses often lack a large, central reception desk and/or concierge. Because of this, I’ve found payment tends to be more laid-back than what you’ll experience in a hotel. Hosts often let guests pay at a later point after check-in (even a day into a stay).
At check-in, your host typically gives a property and room tour, and will provide any key information you may need (WiFi password, how to enter the property, breakfast information). Chatting with your host after check-in is a great way to get to know them, get some grasp of the area you’re in (things to do, where to eat, tour options) and perhaps even try local tea or wine.
Bedrooms
Guest house bookings range from dorm-style beds to fully private rooms or suites (this will depend on the property). For exactly how to find a guest house you like, follow the Guest House Booking Guide. Private guest house rooms will typically include an en-suite bathroom, one towel per guest and the basic toiletries (like hand soap). To learn about the five things every traveler should bring to a guest house, click here.
Bathrooms
While most private rooms have an en-suite bathroom, shared bathrooms are also common (particularly in mountain guest houses). If your booking includes a shared bathroom, it will typically be in a hallway just outside your room, or sandwiched between the rooms of the guests who are sharing it. To read about shared bathroom etiquette in guest houses, click here.
Common Areas
Great guest houses are more than a place to sleep. Some are minimalistic (particularly ones in big cities like Tokyo), while some provide amenities. Features you might find in a guest house include a restaurant, swimming pool, lounge, billiards and laundry. Some properties host activities such as bike tours, barbecues and guided hikes. To learn about the 8 types of guest houses (with 5 examples of each), click here.
Guest houses often have a communal kitchen (located outside your bedroom), equipped with utensils guests can use to cook or prepare their own meals with food brought from outside. Many hosts allow guests to use some of their own ingredients/condiments. In smaller guest houses, breakfast may be served in the kitchen.
Other features and amenities you can potentially find in guest houses include a fireplace, gym, outdoor grill, sea or mountain views, garage, Netflix streaming, and beachfront access. Guest houses with an on-site bar may organize happy hour or drink specials. For step-by-step help on finding guest houses with the features you want, follow our Guest House Booking Guide.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
What To Bring To A Guest House
Here are 5 items that every traveler should consider bringing to a guest house stay. All of these items are affordable (you can buy all 5 for under $100 total).
The 5 things to bring are:
Basic Toiletries [Buy Here]
Toiletry Bag [Buy Here]
Flip Flops [Buy Here]
Power Strip [Buy Here]
Universal Travel Adapter [Buy Here]
*To learn more about why you should bring these 5 items (plus quality options on Amazon), click here.
4 Reasons To Experience A Guest House
There are 4 main reasons travelers should experience guest house accommodation. In general, you’ll find these reasons to hold true in guest house properties all around the world. Some guest houses offer fewer than 4, while the best guest houses provide all of them.
The 4 main reasons are:
Cultural Immersion [Learn More]
Relaxed Setting [Learn More]
You’ll Save Money [Learn More]
You Can Usually Cook [Learn More]
*To learn more about these 4 reasons, click here.
The 8 Types Of Guest Houses
While most basic guest house features are standard (bedroom, bathroom, common areas), guest house properties can vary greatly in form and atmosphere. There are 8 types of guest houses you can find while traveling (some are a hybrid of multiple types). All of these types can be found on Agoda.com.
The 8 types of guest houses are:
Rural [Learn More]
Urban [Learn More]
Budget [Learn More]
Luxury [Learn More]
Boutique [Learn More]
Historic/Cultural [Learn More]
Mountain [Learn More]
Eco-Friendly [Learn More]
*To learn all about these 8 types of guest houses (with 5 examples of each type), click here.
What Type Of Traveler Typically Stays In A Guest House?
In my experience, guest houses are typically booked by couples, small groups and solo travelers. They’re chosen by all age groups (teenagers to older travelers), but are most popular among those seeking relaxation and a unique experience (compared to feeling like just another guest staying in a large, standard chain hotel).
Guest houses aren’t as popular among large groups or luxury seekers (in my experience). If you’d rather not interact with a host or other guests (like if you’re on a romantic getaway or with little children), you might want to consider a hotel rather than a guest house.
Guest houses in Lake Baikal, Russia
Guest houses can be found at all price points. Some cost much more than local hotel rooms, whether for location (like if a property offers mountain views) or for services provided (noteworthy breakfast, exclusive tours, etc.). Still, typical guest house rooms don’t cost nearly as much as 5-star luxury hotels (in general).
If comfort is extremely important to you, and you’d like to be “served” during a stay (room service, etc.), I recommend sticking to a hotel stay rather than a guest house. For more on this topic, read the Guest Houses vs. Hotels Comparison. If you prefer to be in unique lodging, to save money, immerse yourself in a natural environment, and/or learn about local culture from a local host, consider experiencing a guest house stay.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
17 Frequently Asked Questions About Guest Houses (FAQ)
Do Guest Houses Provide Breakfast?
Breakfast options vary by property. Some guest houses include breakfast in the nightly rate, some let you buy breakfast (à la carte or buffet) and some do not offer breakfast. Depending on the guest house, breakfast can range from minimal (toast, fruit and coffee) to continental or local, homemade cuisine. For how to find a guest house that offers breakfast, click here.
Do Guest Houses Have Kitchens?
In my experience, most guest houses have a kitchen or kitchenette that guests can use. Their kitchen is often communal (not private), since many properties were initially built to be family homes, then later modified to host guests. Some guest houses have an outdoor or semi-outdoor kitchen. For exactly how to find a guest house with a kitchen, click here.
Do Guest Houses Provide Towels?
Yes, most guest houses provide at least one towel per guest. Typically, guest houses provide fewer toiletries than mid to upper-tier hotels (in my experience). To read about the 5 things every traveler should consider bringing to a guest house stay, click here.
Do Guest Houses Offer Private Rooms?
Yes, most guest houses offer private bedrooms. Some also provide dorm bed options (within a shared room) and some offer exclusive and/or upscale rooms (villa-style suites). Depending on the property, guests who book a private room may still share other spaces (such as the kitchen and other common areas).
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
Why Are Guest Houses So Cheap?
If you’re accustomed to mid to upper-tier hotels, the nightly rate of a guest house may surprise you. Hotels usually have greater overhead (they employ full-time staff and often operate in commercial rental spaces), while guest houses typically have fewer amenities and lower expenses. Also, guest houses are often owned by a host family - particularly in rural destinations where the local population is older on average. To see today’s deals on guest houses in any destination, click here.
How Much Does A Guest House Typically Cost?
The answer to “how much does it cost to book a guest house?” depends on a few factors - including seasonality and rental type (single room, suite, etc.). In my experience, the nightly rate of a guest house room is typically roughly the same as the local 2 or 3 star hotel rooms. In most cases, guest houses aren’t as cheap as hostel beds or the extreme budget hotels, but they also don’t typically reach the price of 4 or 5 star hotels on the higher end. Exceptions include if a guest house is well-known or located in an exclusive area.
Are Guest Houses The Same As Hotels?
No, guest houses are different than hotels in a few key ways. Notably, hotels have staff to assist their guests with anything they’ll need during a stay, while guest house hosts are typically more “hands-off” with their guests (in regards to personal service). There are also key differences in atmosphere, price, safety, privacy and amenities. To learn more about this topic, read our Guest Houses vs. Hotels Comparison Guide.
How Do Guest Houses Make Money?
Apart from renting their rooms to travelers, there are countless other ways a guest house can make money. This mostly boils down to creativity and opportunity. For example, a guest house can also function as a local restaurant, lead tours, earn commissions by referring guests to other tour operators or taxi drivers, or rent out bicycles for daily or hourly rates.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
Who Owns Guest Houses?
In my experience, guest houses are usually owned by the host family. They could also be owned by a local resident (non-family member), foreign investor or the local government, among other possibilities.
Who Regulates Guest Houses?
In many countries, guest houses fall under the same classification as hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, etc. - as an accommodation/lodging business. In this way, local jurisdictions may regulate guest houses the same way they regulate those other businesses. Regulations, requirements, zoning rules, permits and the ability to build and operate a guest house all depend on local law in that particular region or country.
Where Are Guest Houses Most Popular?
A guest house can be located anywhere. You can find them in cities and in fringe rural towns, near public transportation lines and in remote locales. I’ve found guest houses to be most popular in towns with unique architecture, such as in Berat, Albania and Ushguli, Georgia. Both of these towns have more guest houses than hotels (this is not uncommon in historic areas).
Guest houses are also popular along multi-day hiking routes. For example, guest houses in some of Nepal’s popular Himalayan trails provide breakfast and dinner at specific times each day, making them an integral part of hikers’ logistics and schedules (as there aren’t many lodging or food options at such high altitude).
Guest houses aren’t popular in some destinations, for various reasons. For example, in places where people come to “spend money” (like Dubai or Las Vegas), the typical visitor may be seeking luxury experiences and are only there for a few nights. These visitors may be less interested in learning about the local culture.
Are Guest Houses Popular In The USA?
In my experience, guest houses are not particularly popular in the United States (in comparison to other countries). As an American who’s traveled most of the country, I believe this is because guest houses are not well-meshed into the American travel culture. Road-tripping Americans and/or travelers visiting remote regions tend to choose motels instead (they’re often much more visible). However, Airbnb has certainly been inspiring many Americans to book local homes.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
What Are Guest Houses Like In Europe?
In my experience, guest houses in Europe are not particularly different than guest houses elsewhere. In some parts of the continent (like in Eastern Europe), guest houses tend to be laid-back and less trafficked than in popular touristic areas like the Mediterranean coast and the Swiss Alps. Guest houses are popular in Europe’s mountain ranges (where they’re sometimes referred to as a “hut”, “cabin”, “gasthaus”, “maison” or “pension” - among other names depending on locale).
How Long Can You Book A Guest House Stay For?
You can book a guest house stay for one day, a night, a month or longer - depending on availability. Some properties close for months at a time, such as during an annual rain or snow season, or during periods of slow tourism. Still, many guest houses operate year-round and some will even offer extended stay options.
Are Guests Supposed To Clean?
No, guests are not expected to clean their rooms prior to checkout - that’s the host’s job. Still, aim to keep the room reasonably clean (don’t leave a mess, return the furniture to the way you found it, etc.). To learn about guest house etiquette in all regards, click here.
Can I Work/Volunteer At A Guest House?
Yes, some guest houses allow their guests to work or volunteer at the property. If you’re looking for guest houses that are seeking volunteers, consider checking out Workaway.info and Worldpackers.com.
Do Guest Houses Allow Parties?
Your ability to throw a party in a guest house depends on what your particular host will allow. Some allow it, others prohibit it. If you’d like to have a party, contact potential hosts prior to booking. This way, you and a host can reach agreements/understandings before you have made any financial commitments to them.
*For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here.
Conclusion
Hopefully you found this guide helpful.
Guest houses are an underrated lodging choice. While they are not as ubiquitous as hotels, their atmosphere allows you to gain a cultural understanding and create unique memories that you’ll cherish long after you’ve returned home. To learn more about guest houses, explore our other guides below.
Enjoy your travels!
How To Find Great Deals On Guest Houses
Agoda.com is a great place to book a guest house online. You’ll find properties for groups, solo travelers, couples and families. For today’s deals on guest houses in your destination, click here. If you’ve never stayed in a guest house before and just prefer a step-by-step guide showing you how to find and book your ideal stay, follow our Guest House Booking Guide.
Learn More About Guest Houses
Introduction To Guest Houses
Get Started With Guest Houses
Guest Houses vs. Hotels Comparison [Atmosphere, Price, Safety, Amenities]
Guest Houses vs. Hostels Comparison [Atmosphere, Price, Safety, Amenities]
Know Before You Go
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