As the world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the United States is bracing for an influx of over 6 million international visitors. Cities like New York, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, and Los Angeles are preparing for crowds, skyrocketing hotel rates, and packed airports.

Yet a growing number of travelers are thinking beyond traditional hotels. They’re turning to local hosts for authentic stays and a smoother experience during the world’s biggest sporting event.

At Llivo, we believe that travel should be more than just finding a room — it should be about connection, trust, and experiencing a destination like a local. That’s why now, more than ever, fans are exploring home stays with airport pickup services as a smarter alternative to hotels.

Discover how you can join Llivo’s community of hosts or travelers today.

1. Local Hosts Offer Personal Connections and Authenticity

Hotels often feel generic — same lobby, same décor, same scripted greetings. But when travelers stay with a local host, they’re welcomed like a guest, not just a booking number.

Local hosts provide:

• Insights into the best neighborhoods, hidden gems, and local dining spots.

• Personal stories about life in the city, giving visitors a richer cultural experience.

• A genuine connection that makes fans feel part of the community, not just spectators.

During the World Cup, many travelers will crave a deeper experience — especially those journeying from countries like Brazil, Germany, or Japan. Staying with a local can turn a sports trip into a life-changing adventure.

Learn how Llivo’s community of hosts is preparing for this global event.

2. Hosts Can Provide Airport Pickups — Hotels Can’t

One of the biggest pain points for travelers arriving for the World Cup will be the chaos at airports. Taxi lines will be long, rideshare prices will surge, and public transportation may be overwhelming, especially for international guests unfamiliar with U.S. cities.

This is where Llivo stands out. Unlike traditional booking platforms, Llivo allows hosts to offer airport pickup services:

• Hosts greet guests at the arrivals gate, creating instant comfort and trust.

• Travelers avoid overpriced rides or potential scams.

• Guests arrive safely at their accommodation without navigating an unfamiliar city.

Imagine landing in a city like Dallas, where over millions of fans are expected, and being greeted by a friendly local who not only drives you home but shares insider tips about the city. That’s the Llivo difference.

Explore how Llivo combines stays and rides into a single, seamless experience.

3. Cost Savings During the World Cup Hotel Crunch

The World Cup is known for pushing hotel prices to record highs. During Russia’s 2018 World Cup, average hotel prices jumped over 100% in host cities. The 2026 event in the U.S. will likely see similar spikes, if not worse.

Local hosts offer:

• More competitive nightly rates than hotels.

• Flexible pricing for longer stays.

• Options in neighborhoods that might not even have hotels, spreading visitors beyond crowded downtowns.

For example, in Atlanta, over 300,000 visitors are expected. Hotel rooms are already being reserved over a year in advance, leaving late planners scrambling for alternatives. By choosing a local host, travelers save money while experiencing the city in a more personal way.

Check out Llivo’s guide to hosting and earning during the World Cup.

4. Flexibility and Comfort That Hotels Struggle to Match

Local stays often provide features hotels can’t offer:

• Kitchens for preparing meals (especially helpful for families).

• Larger living spaces for groups of friends traveling together.

• Private, quiet environments away from crowded tourist zones.

• Hosts willing to accommodate early check-ins, late check-outs, or special requests.

During the World Cup, many fans will travel in groups or families. A hotel room can feel cramped and impersonal. A local home offers comfort, privacy, and space to unwind after thrilling match days.

See how Llivo listings cater to different types of travelers.

5. Trust and Safety Through Personal Reviews and Community

In large events like the World Cup, trust matters. Travelers want reassurance that their accommodation will be clean, safe, and as advertised. They also want confidence that anyone picking them up at the airport is legitimate and reliable.

Llivo builds that trust:

• Hosts develop verified profiles and collect reviews over time.

• Guests can read ratings and experiences from prior travelers.

• Llivo’s community standards promote safety and accountability.

Unlike faceless hotel bookings, staying with a vetted local host feels personal and secure. It’s peace of mind that’s priceless — especially when arriving from thousands of miles away.

Learn how Llivo’s trust and safety measures protect both travelers and hosts.

Final Words

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the trip of a lifetime for millions of fans. Yet the challenges of finding a place to stay — and getting there safely — will be real.

That’s why more travelers than ever are choosing local hosts over hotels. Llivo’s innovative platform offers not only unique homes but also the comfort of airport pickups, local insights, and genuine human connection.

If you’re thinking of hosting or planning your World Cup journey, now is the perfect time to join Llivo. Let’s make the world’s biggest event more personal, safe, and unforgettable.

Start your journey with Llivo today.

Khurram Iqbal Founder of LLIVO, Volunteer Blog Writer for LLIVO | IT Leader | Expert in Consolidation & Modernization | Creative Content Creator | Ideation Specialist | Former Assistant Vice President | Previous Professor of English Language & Literature.

Disclaimer: This blog post is based on publicly available data and personal experiences as of July 2025. Prices and availability may vary based on location and season. LLIVO and the author are not responsible for discrepancies in rates or availability. Please verify all details with individual hosts.