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A tourist crusing along the Mekong River, Việt Nam
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A. Predict. Look at the title. Wh🎧at do you think the text is about?
B. Read the text. Underline everything that guests can do when they are at a homestay.
C. Discuss with a partner. When you travel, where do you prefer staying, a hotel or a homestay?
LIVING LIKE LOCALS IN SOUTHERN VIỆT NAM
Have you ever thought of traveling around the southern part of Việt Nam and experiencing the life of the locals? If so, living in a countryside homestay with a local family might be better than staying in a hotel.
A homestay is a form of accommodation where travelers stay overnight in locals' houses. There are many different activities that homestays can offer, such as going on river cruises, fishing, picking fruit, and visiting local workshops. Moreover, the hosts can help with lending bicycles and hiring motorbikes so you can explore the area on your own.
If this is not something for you, you can simply participate in the owner's family activities, from preparing foods to cooking and serving. You will have many chances to talk to the host family and see how things are done the Vietnamese way. You can also enjoy their secret talents, like playing musical instruments and singing đờn ca tài tử—traditional music of the locals.
Countryside homestays help you connect with the local culture in a home, with a family, and in a real-life setting, which can be a highly valuable experience.
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