Why swap a house rather than stay in a hotel? Aside from saving significant money, staying in a house or apartment really gives you the flavor of an area. You can settle in and feel like a local rather than an outsider, and the homeowner you are swapping with will likely fill you in on all sorts of local secrets not in the guidebooks. Another big bonus for foodies is being able to use amazing local fresh foods to cook dinner at "home" instead of eating out for every meal.