Skip the Generic Hotel with These Lodging Options That Have Character and Class

When we think about traveling abroad—whether for a vacation or a deeper exploration—we love to experience the local culture. Tasting authentic food, admiring gorgeous architecture, and learning about art, design, and history are at the top of our lists. Who can imagine visiting Italy without savoring a bowl of handmade pasta or viewing some world-famous art?

But one thing we tend to overlook is how where we stay can shape our cultural experience. While convenience and budget are top of mind when choosing accommodations, thinking more intentionally about where you sleep at night can open up a new layer of connection to your destination.

Of course, specific requirements like child-friendly amenities or accessibility may guide your choices—and chain hotels can meet those needs beautifully. But if you have some flexibility, considering the following options can help you feel even more immersed in the culture of the place you’re exploring!

Converted Hotels: Sleep in a Slice of History

Staying in a converted hotel can turn your overnight rest into a cultural experience. Many of these places were once castles, monasteries, factories, or even historic estates that have been lovingly repurposed. Imagine sleeping in a centuries-old manor house in Scotland or a Venetian palazzo with its original frescoes still adorning the walls.

Plus, converted hotels come with fascinating stories that connect you to the history of the place. The staff might be able to share tales of the building’s past, or you could stumble upon a plaque detailing its significance. And the unique architecture and design can make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time—far more memorable than a cookie-cutter hotel room.

Authentic Design: Live the Aesthetic of the Region

Accommodations that reflect the region’s traditional design or architecture add cultural depth to your stay. For instance, riads in Morocco have stunning courtyards and intricate tilework that speak to the country’s rich artistic traditions. A cozy log cabin in the Swiss Alps feels like it belongs in the landscape, while Charleston hotels and historic inns exude Southern charm with their grand porches and elegant interiors. When your accommodation embraces the local aesthetic, it creates a seamless connection between your space and the world outside.

Locally Run Guesthouses: Hospitality With Heart

There’s something special about staying in a place run by locals. Family-owned guesthouses, small B&Bs, or independent inns frequently come with hosts who love sharing their culture with visitors. Whether they’re cooking homemade meals using local ingredients, recommending off-the-beaten-path gems, or sharing stories about the area’s history, their personal touch brings the destination to life.

Staying at a local spot allows you to connect with other travelers, share tips, and hear about the adventures of people worldwide. These smaller, intimate accommodations may be a little out of the way or a bit more modest, but the cultural enrichment they offer is priceless.

Eco-Lodges: Stay Close to Nature and the Local Community

Eco-lodges are a fantastic option for those seeking a more sustainable and nature-oriented experience. Frequently located in beautiful natural settings, these accommodations prioritize harmony with the environment and support the local community. Imagine staying in a jungle lodge in Costa Rica made entirely of local, sustainable materials or sleeping in a solar-powered cabin in the Australian outback.

Eco-lodges usually employ locals, source food regionally, and offer activities like guided nature walks or workshops on local traditions. Staying in one connects you with the landscape and gives you the satisfaction of supporting the community.

Home Rentals: Live Like a Local

Short-term home rentals through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can provide a “live like a local” experience, especially if you choose accommodations in residential neighborhoods rather than tourist hubs. Shop at nearby markets, cook meals in your own kitchen, and greet your neighbors as you settle into the rhythms of daily life.

For an even more immersive experience, look for hosts who offer cultural extras, like cooking classes, guided tours, or curated recommendations. These touches turn a simple stay into a meaningful exploration of the area’s way of life.

Hostels: A Cultural Hub for Travelers

Don’t dismiss hostels as just budget-friendly options—they’re cultural hubs where you can meet travelers worldwide. Many hostels offer themed rooms, local art displays, or group activities like city tours or communal dinners.

In some regions, hostels are housed in historic buildings, blending cultural authenticity with social connection. Whether you’re swapping travel stories over breakfast or joining a group for a night out, hostels can provide a unique, community-driven way to experience a destination.

Where you stay while traveling can be a gateway to understanding the culture, history, and daily life of a place. From converted hotels that let you sleep in history to locally run guesthouses where you feel like family, your accommodations can enrich your journey in ways you never imagined.

Featured photo by Adrien Olichon on Pexels.