Simple Stay, Real Connection

[Sarah5000]

As a host, I've always believed that a guest's experience goes beyond the functional utility of a place to stay. The emotional connection we create is what truly leaves a lasting impact. Recently, I had the privilege of hosting a couple from Switzerland for 10 weeks, which gave me the perfect opportunity to reflect on my role as a host and the deeper value that hosting can bring.

The couple, who had adopted a new way of life after the pandemic, were now traveling the world, working remotely in different countries for extended stays. Their friends in New Zealand recommended Adelaide, and that’s how they found my listing. This was to be their third time visiting Australia, but the first time they planned to stay longer in one city, and I wanted to make sure they had the full local experience.

Understanding that their stay would be for several weeks, I wanted to offer them more than just a place to sleep. I wanted them to feel at home and be immersed in the local culture. So, I picked them up from the airport and gave them a quick tour of the apartment. A week later, I invited them out for coffee to check in and make sure they felt comfortable, offering a chance to talk about anything they might need or even just to pass the time if they felt a little lonely in a new city.

During our coffee meet-up, the wife surprised me with handmade candles, something she had made herself — a beautiful gesture that added to the connection we were building. Over the following weeks, we enjoyed more moments together, like a dinner out with my friends and my dog, and they even joined me for my birthday celebrations with other hosts and friends. We had dinner, enjoyed a comedy show, and shared laughter, making it feel like we were all one big family.

 

Adelaide is known for its vibrant festival season, and during their stay, the city was buzzing with energy. The couple had the chance to experience everything from art festivals to live performances. Before they left, we shared a final meal together at a Cantonese restaurant, enjoying authentic Yum Cha — a perfect way to wrap up their trip. The following day, I took them to the airport and wished them well on their next adventure.

Reflecting on their stay, I realized how proud I was that my space wasn’t just a place with functional utilities; it had become a home — a space that offered warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging. This experience truly reinforced for me that what we offer as hosts is so much more than just physical space. It’s the emotional value — the feeling of being welcomed and belonging — that makes the difference. It’s about being part of someone’s journey, too.

[Zamani-Nonduduzo0]

This is really beautiful @Sarah5000. The connection become deeper to point where the guests checkout we wish they can extend their stay… I recently found my self chopping   onions🥹 when they left with their kids

[Sarah5000]

Thank you

[Elisa]

Hi @Sarah5000 😊, 

Thank you for sharing this incredible story here, it was such a pleasure to read. 😍

Ten weeks with a guest is definitely a marvellous connection.

Was it your first time hosting someone for that long?

Warm regards 🌻

[Jue0]

@Sarah5000 Sarah, this is so true! I resonate well with your beautiful story on your reflections of 10 years of Hosting. So inspiring…Isn’t it great how Airbnb makes these super connections? Guests choosing to stay two and a half month’s and literally sharing their lives with you, is  Phenomenal!
A great takeaway in your wrap up …“Reflecting on their stay, I realized how proud I was that my space wasn’t just a place with functional utilities; it had become a home — a space that offered warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging. This experience truly reinforced for me that what we offer as hosts is so much more than just physical space. It’s the emotional value — the feeling of being welcomed and belonging — that makes the difference. It’s about being part of someone’s journey, too.”

Great food for thought. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

[Maria-Eduarda15]

I really loved the story.. You should feel really proud. Airbnb hosting is not only a business but mainly an experience that creates long lasting memories.

[Guy991]

Hello @Sarah5000 ,

Thank you for the great post. It’s a wonderful reminder of why we do this.

For some guests, we are simply a cheaper alternative to a hotel. For others, just a temporary place to rest their heads. But on those occasions when a guest stays for more than a week, the connection often feels different. I’ll be honest, I find myself treating those guests differently too.

Some of them are truly the kind of people who could have become good friends, and I often wish they could stay longer.

all the best,