Being a homestay host is a culturally enriching and financially rewarding activity that can lead to long-term friendships with people from around the world. Homestay involves providing accommodation, with or without meals (though most homestays do provide meals), to young international university or college students, or other international visitors, in return for a weekly payment. Homestay hosting is available to all types of Canadian households (families with or without kids, single parents, empty nesters or pensioners) who have spare bedrooms and are located within a reasonable travel time by direct public transport to major universities and other educational institutions across Canada.