Home swap destinations: where to go on your next trip

When you participate in a home exchange network, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with what feels like endless options. And we get it: decision paralysis is real.

With endless cities to choose from as a home swapper, how do you go about deciding where in the world to travel for your next (or first!) home swap destination?

The first step is to ask yourself what kindof trip you’re looking for. A full retreat to the mountains? Fresh energy from a new city you haven’t explored? An exciting international trip?

Whether you’re looking to home swap in a city or prefer to tap into your outdoorsy side, we’ve put together a home swap destination list that has something for everyone.

If you’re looking to embrace your creative side...

The people of Portland and Austin will be the first to tell you to “keep it weird.” Ready to release your inner artist? Check out what these cities offer for the creative types.

Portland

When you house swap in Portland, you'll find a quirky city where individualism(and coffee!) is celebrated. Full of vintage shops, bookstores, funky bars, food carts, and green spaces, Portland offers a truly unique experience unique experiences.

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Austin

If you're a fan of live music, Tex Mex, and barbecue, then Austin is for you. Plus every neighborhood offers something different. Spend your days window shopping on South Congress, taking a dip in Barton Springs Pool, or take notes from the locals lounging in Zilker Park. You’ll feel inspired and refreshed after a home exchange in Austin.

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If you’re looking for a world-class city experience…

Explore these destinations that are famous for their history, culture, and food.

Paris

Walking through Paris is like living out your very own movie scene where you’re the main character. From sidewalk cafes and neighborhood boulangeries, world-famous museums and landmarks, and there's something for everyone.

There’s a reason Paris is called the City of Love—you'll in love with the city itself.

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London

London is full of buzzing neighborhoods like hip Shoreditch and elegant Chelsea. Explore the Royal Parks, popular markets, some of the best football (soccer) in the world, and iconic landmarks like the London Eye. Check out less touristy neighborhoods like Richmond, which is a short train ride central London but feels like a riverside retreat away from city life.

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Barcelona

Barcelona is a rich and historic city, offering exciting nightlife, family-friendly beaches, and incredible buildings by famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. After you've explored the landmarks, there are endless fine dining options to choose from, or take a tip from the locals and take a mid-day siesta. If you’re home swapping for more than a week, venture out to the surrounding areas. Dali and Picasso fans won’t want to miss where they found much of their inspiration: the Costa Brava coastline.

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New York

New York is notorious for overpriced hotels. But when you plan a getaway using Kindred, you'll save on accommodations so you can splurge on a true New York experience. Gourmet eats, Broadway shows, and world-famous tourist attractions will make for an unforgettable trip.

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If you're looking for a mix of city and nature...

Then home swap in cities that offer a blend of terraces and trees.

San Francisco Bay Area

The best part about home swapping in San Francisco is that if you want to spend a day in nature, it’s easy. Take a respite from the city and the 37 different sites within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, like Muir Woods, the Presidio, Mount Tamalpais, Crissy Field, and numerous beaches on the SF Bay and Pacific Ocean. When you leave San Francisco, you’ll have had a little taste of everything.

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Denver

Here’s an insider tip on home swapping in Denver: You might find the city empty on the weekends because everyone is hiking in the mountains to get their nature fix. What does this mean for you? You’ve got options. Looking for an easy hike? Check out the Rocky Mountain National Park or Red Rocks, just 30 minutes from the city. Not much of a hiker? Drive to the top of Mount Evans, where you can park your car and take a (very short) walk up to the summit.

After a day of hiking or scenic driving, you could spend the money you saved by home swapping at Pearl Street, Denver’s Historic Shopping District. If shopping isn’t your thing, you can live like a local at Washington Park, where people flock to on warm summer nights. You’ll get used to the Mile High City in no time.

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If you’re looking for a nature retreat…

You’ll want to consider these dreamy California escapes for complete outdoor immersion.

Tahoe

Lake Tahoe’s crystal clear waters and jaw-dropping mountains bring you a peaceful and serene escape from city life. If you're craving nature, relaxation, and rejuvenation, Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for your next home swap.

Explore nearby state parks along the edge of this scenic lake or hike in the surrounding mountains. And since you’re saving a bundle with your cashless home exchange, why not treat yourself and rent a boat for a day?

If you're visiting in the winter and enjoy winter sports, pick from any of the 12 ski resorts. Lake Tahoe covers a vast area, where you can dive into nature and feel like a whole new you.

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Joshua Tree

Stargazing, nature, and solitude… sounds lovely, doesn’t it? Joshua Tree is a unique California desert full of trees right out of a Dr. Seuss book. Find some of the largest Joshua trees and junipers in the less-visited Covington Flats, or explore the Pine City Trail, which leads to an old mining area. A home stay in this region will give you an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

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Pro tips for a seamless and successful exchange

A flawless and rewarding home exchange relies on clear communication, mutual respect, and a little preparation. Check out this step-by-step guide on how to make your home guest-ready.

Choosing the right home swap for you

The Kindred app makes it easy to find the right home swap for you. Filter your search by destination, type of stay, number of bedrooms, pet friendliness, and more. Peruse homes worldwide using the map feature or search by specific dates. Save your dream destinations in a wishlist and we’ll text you when new homes pop up that fit your criteria. You can even tell the concierge where and when you want to travel next, and they’ll send you homes that match.

Unlock access to homes across two continents and start planning your next getaway today.

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