Games & Entertainment at Your Homestay or Airbnb

Hosting guests at your Airbnb in Malaysia goes beyond providing a comfortable bed and clean linens. Offering fun and engaging entertainment options is key to making their stay truly memorable. With Malaysia being a cultural melting pot, there are endless ways to localise games and activities to ensure guests have a unique and enjoyable experience. 

Here’s how you can keep your homestay guests entertained, whether they’re relaxing in your urban apartment in Kuala Lumpur or enjoying a coastal retreat in Terengganu:

1. Board Games with a Malaysian Twist

Board games are a timeless way to entertain guests. Including familiar classics like Monopoly or Scrabble is great, but why not go a step further with games that reflect Malaysia’s culture?

• Congkak: A traditional Malaysian board game that is both simple and engaging. Providing a congkak set in your Airbnb can offer guests an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of the country while having fun.
• Saidina: This localised board game takes players on a virtual trip through Malaysia, allowing them to explore landmarks and cities while strategising to win, much like in Monopoly. It’s a great way for foreign guests to get acquainted with the country’s diverse geography.

(Source: www.idropglobal.com)

2. Karaoke: A Malaysian Favourite

Malaysians love karaoke and offering a karaoke setup is sure to be a hit, especially for guests travelling in groups or with family. You can include a portable karaoke machine, microphones and access to popular karaoke apps. Be sure to include a selection of popular local songs in Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil, Hindi, Mandarin and English so everyone can join in the fun.

For extra engagement, create a Malaysian Playlist featuring local artists like Yuna, Siti Nurhaliza, or M Nasir to showcase the country’s vibrant music scene.

3. Outdoor Fun: Lawn Games for Coastal or Suburban Listings

If your Airbnb is located in a suburban area or near the beach, consider providing outdoor games for guests to enjoy Malaysia’s beautiful tropical weather. Some ideas include:

• Sepak Takraw: This traditional Malaysian sport can be a fun addition for guests who enjoy outdoor activities. Providing a lightweight ball and instructions on how to play can turn an afternoon into a cultural experience.
• Beach Volleyball or Badminton: Set up a volleyball net or badminton set if your Airbnb is near a beach or has a backyard. Badminton is extremely popular in Malaysia, and guests will love the chance to enjoy this national pastime.

4. Malaysian Card Games

Card games are easy to store and can quickly become a go-to form of entertainment for guests. Provide a deck of cards along with instructions for Chor Dai Di (Big Two), a popular Malaysian-Chinese card game. It’s simple to learn but engaging enough to keep players entertained for hours. Other card games with a local twist include The Lepak Game, The Malaysian Dream and Drama Pukul 7.
 

(Source: thesun.my)

5. Virtual Entertainment for Digital Nomads and Families

In today’s digital age, offering virtual entertainment options is just as important as traditional games. For guests who prefer staying indoors, you can provide:

• Netflix or Disney+ Hotstar Subscription: Malaysia’s love for movies and TV shows makes having a streaming service a must. Don’t forget to curate a “Malaysian Movies & Dramas” list featuring local hits like Ola Bola or Sepet.

(Source: siennylovesdrawing.wordpress.com)

• Video Game Consoles: If you’re catering to younger guests or families, consider providing a gaming console like a PlayStation or Nintendo Switch. You can even include games that reflect local interests, such as sports or travel-themed games.

6. Cooking Challenges with Malaysian Ingredients

If your Airbnb has a kitchen, why not turn it into an entertainment space? Encourage your guests to try a Malaysian cooking challenge with a few local ingredients you’ve stocked. A simple recipe card for dishes like Nasi Lemak or Teh Tarik could lead to a fun, interactive activity for guests who enjoy culinary adventures.

For added fun, leave some local snacks such as kerepek, murukku or kuih in the kitchen, along with a brief history of these traditional Malaysian treats.

7. Cultural Storytelling Evenings

Create a relaxing atmosphere by providing books or guides that highlight Malaysian folklore, history and culture. Curate a shelf or reading corner with books like Hikayat Hang Tuah or The Rice Mother for guests who want to wind down with some reading. You could also add a digital version of the Penang Street Art guide or Cameron Highlands Hiking trails for guests to explore virtually before visiting in person.
 

(Source: www.bookurve.com)

8. Movie Night with Local Flavors

Set up a movie night kit with local selections. Include packets of keropok (prawn crackers), popiah snacks and 3-in-1 local beverages like Milk Tea or Milo. Curate a selection of Malaysian films or documentaries to give guests a unique cultural experience while enjoying their snacks.

In a nutshell, keeping your guests entertained doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By incorporating traditional games, local culture and creative activities into your Airbnb, you’ll create an experience that goes beyond a typical stay. Whether it’s a relaxing game of congkak or a digital karaoke session, these entertainment ideas will ensure your guests leave with memories of a truly Malaysian experience. At MyRehat, we’ve curated homes that reflect the vibrant essence of Malaysia, with some even featuring stunning murals of the country’s landscapes and heritage. 

Visit www.myrehat.com to check out MyRehat’s curated accommodations and enjoy a 15% discount on your first bookings today!