The objective of this standard is to develop a comprehensive homestay standard that can be adapted by ASEAN Member States as recommended in the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP): 2011 – 2015 to create quality visitor experience by showcasing their rural resources in a presentable, safe, and attractive manner. The establishment of the standard shall increase the quality of services, facilities and human capital in ASEAN homestay programmes by providing a more organised path to a professional level of management, taking into consideration the needs, capability and cultural diversity of all ASEAN member states.
In developing the standard, existing homestay standards and guidelines used by all ASEAN member states were analysed, where common grounds and gaps were identified. The resulting standard will focus on nine criteria, namely host, accommodation, activities, management, location, hygiene & cleanliness, safety & security, marketing and sustainability principles.