More than a place to stay: Why ‘living like a local’ is the 2026 travel trend

The 2026 travel trend is ‘living like a local’. Guests value authenticity, community connection and local expertise, not just luxury extras. Holiday lets that deliver genuine local experiences are winning stronger bookings and loyalty.

There was a time when a holiday was simply about ‘going somewhere’ to unwind. You’d pack a bag, check into a property, and just spend a week as an observer in a new place. But as we move into 2026, the data shows a notable trend forming in guest expectations.

Today’s travellers are moving away from the ‘tourist’ label. Inspired by the concept of ‘Don’t go there, live there,’ guests are increasingly seeking sustainable and community-minded stays. They don’t just want a sea view; they want to know where the locals buy their sourdough, which coastal path has the best hidden cove, and how their stay is positively impacting the local economy.

From transactional to transformational

For many owners looking to maximise holiday let income, there is often a temptation to focus solely on high-end ‘extras’ like hot tubs or cinema rooms. While these features are fantastic and appreciated by holidaymakers, 2026 guests are actually prioritising something much harder to buy: authenticity.

Modern guests value:

• Local knowledge and personal recommendations: Moving beyond the generic Top 10 lists found on Google or call centre based research.
• Trusted Experiences: A desire for ‘experience-led’ stays where they can connect with the soul of a place.
• Sustainability and Impact: Knowing that their host is part of the local fabric and supports other local businesses.

The HolidayHost advantage: Real people, real networks

This shift perfectly compliments the HolidayHost model. Unlike remote agencies, our Local Hosts are exactly that – local. They live, work, and breathe the communities they manage. Whether it’s holiday let management in Cornwall or a Devon short-term rental, our hosts bring a level of insight that an algorithm simply cannot match.

Our Local Hosts don’t just manage a property; they act as a bridge to the community. Need to know the best time to book a table at the village pub that doesn’t appear on the major booking sites? Or a local contact for reliable childcare so you can enjoy a coastal sunset dinner for two? Your Local Host already has those networks in place.

A note from the front line

Local Dartmouth Host, Nicki Gray, who also manages Bespoke Devon property services, confirmed that guests are definitely arriving with a different mindset lately. They’re less interested in ‘ticking off’ the main tourist spots and more interested in the ‘secret’ Dartmouth. Holidaymakers love it when she can recommend the small, family-run boat hire or the best spot for an early morning swim that only the locals know about. It transforms their stay from a simple holiday into a memory of feeling truly ‘at home’ in the South West.

“People seem fed up with talking to someone a long way away who has never even been to Devon. As Local Hosts, we know our houses, the areas they are in, the shops, restaurants and local events going on and we are always happy to talk to our guests about the things that we enjoy ourselves.

“Guests are excited to go on holiday to a new place and enjoy chatting to us about the area we know so well so they can get the insider info. Others just want to be reassured that someone will be there to listen if there is a problem and to know how to solve it as quickly and efficiently as possible. It’s easy to talk about something you are passionate about yourself!” Nicki said.

Beyond the hot tub: What really drives bookings

While an ‘amenities overload’ might suggest you need every gadget under the sun, our data shows that guests are increasingly focused on the fundamentals of a well-run stay. High search visibility is now driven by:

• Impeccable cleanliness: Non-negotiable in the 2026 market.
• High speed broadband: For hybrid working, kids gaming and family viewing.
• Compliance and safety: Guests want the peace of mind that their home is professionally vetted.
• Value for money: This doesn’t mean ‘cheap,’ but rather a fair price for a high-quality, insightful experience.

By providing excellent local recommendations and a professional, community-focused service, you build the kind of guest loyalty that ensures your property remains a Guest Favourite year after year.

Why belonging is the real luxury in 2026

The most successful holiday lets in 2026 are those that offer a sense of belonging. By choosing a hosting model that prioritises community connection and local expertise, you aren’t just letting a house – you’re sharing a lifestyle.

Ready to see how a community-led approach can help you maximise your holiday let income in Cornwall or Devon? Contact us for an income estimate and to meet your Local Host.