Secret Stays

In the transformative landscape of modern travel, a profound shift occurred in the 1990s when individuals began renting out their homes to strangers, creating an intimate connection between travelers and unique living spaces around the world. This cultural evolution stems from a revived belief in true hospitality that transcends mere transactions and embraces a desire for meaningful connections and the exchange of stories. Secret Stays, an engaging exploration compiled by Melinda Stevens, Issy von Simson and Tabitha Joyce, reveals twenty-two extraordinary places owned by remarkable personalities, from the Countess of Burlington to the villagers of Tizkmoudine. Whether a remote Croatian monastery or a Japanese machiya mansion, each property reflects a rich history and its contemporary transformation, symbolizing the dynamic evolution of how we experience global travel today. Through vivid images and illuminating stories, the book introduces readers to the hidden gems and fascinating stories behind each destination, showing the diverse and evolving face of travel in our interconnected world.