When I came back from my recent Dharamshala trip, many of you were curious to know how, when and what made me go with Stay On Skill, a platform that helps people travel the world for free by using their skills. One of the common query that everybody asked me was, “Is it safe?.” Team Stay On Skill follows a very strict selection procedure, so I would say, all necessary measures are taken to make the trip as safe as possible. There are certain things to be considered before embarking on such a trip where you are going to be a guest in a stranger’s house. I usually follow a checklist for all my trips, and this was no different. So, here are some quick tips that you could follow if you are planning to go on your Stay On Skill experience:

1. Do not fake your skills

 

I understand having a place to stay while traveling can be a tempting offer. But then do not give in to the temptation and fake up your skills. Be clear and truthful about your skills while registering.

2. Go with an open mind

 

Staying with a family is not like staying in a Hotel. So, don’t go with expectations of luxurious stay. You would definitely get a comfortable and homely stay and in some cases luxurious too, but going with an open mind will help you in accepting the new place better.

3. Read about your host

 

The most important thing to do before any trip is to read and research about the place that you are going to. In this case, it’s also important to know about the people with whom you are going to stay. Stay On Skill follows a stringent way of selecting the host and the traveller. A complete detail is sent to the traveller and the host before they accept each other, please read carefully all the details and try researching from your end too.

4. Plan your skill sharing classes

 

Remember you are there not only for a vacation, but also for imparting your skills. Speak to your host beforehand to understand what they want to learn from you, devise a plan accordingly and dedicate few hours everyday to teach them.

5. Keep your itineraries flexible

 

Locals are your best guides for exploring any place, hence keeping your itinerary flexible helps. Speak to your host, learn more about the place, ask their recommendations and then tweak your plan accordingly.

6. Gifting is a good way to show gratitude

 

I believe opening up your house to a stranger is a big thing and this needs appreciation, hence I took a cookbook and some baking supplies for my host family. It’s completely on you if you want to take something for them.

7. Inform your whereabouts to your family

 

 

While you might be happy being on a vacation, your family might be worried for you. It’s extremely important to keep your family and closed ones informed about your whereabouts. Share your everyday itinerary with them, right from the places that you are going to visit to the cab driver details, your host’s address and details. Call them everyday and let them know if there is any change in the plan, safety should always be a priority.

8. Make your host family your family

 

 

Be polite to your host family and the locals. Treat your host family and his/her house as if you would treat your own. Happy people around you mean you will have a happy time during the trip.

Why I recommend Stay on Skill?

 

 

• You will be less tourist and more a local.
• It will open up your mind and soul to a new culture, new learning and will make you humble and grateful to life.
• You will make new friends.
• You will see a different perspective of the place that you wouldn’t see otherwise.
• In the bargain of teaching skills, you will learn new things.
• You will meet interesting and inspiring people.

Go on a STAY ON SKILL trip now, and you can thank me later, just kidding.

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