Haustausch
In short
Haustausch is a system where people swap homes for a set period, usually for free, in exchange for looking after each other's properties.
In plain words
Instead of paying for a hotel, you stay in someone else's house while they stay in yours. It is a way to travel cheaply and experience local life. Both parties agree on the rules and responsibilities beforehand.
A simple example
A family from London stays in a villa in Spain for two weeks, while a Spanish family stays in the London house during the same period.
Why it matters
It makes international travel more affordable and reduces the need for expensive holiday rentals. It also helps people build trust and connections across different cultures.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with house sitting, where you are paid to look after a home without the owner staying in your house.