When it comes to traveling, there are usually two ways to go about it.
You can take the traditional route, visiting the famous, crowded spots, snapping the same photos as everyone else, and coming back with stories that blend into the thousands told before. Or, you can opt for a more “roots” style of travel, where you dive into the local culture and truly immerse yourself in the environment.
If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers the latter, then this article is for you.
Today, I’m talking about HomeFans—a unique platform that connects travelers with locals to offer tailored experiences around sporting events, particularly football.
Let’s say you’re traveling to Argentina and want to experience the intensity of a Boca Juniors game at La Bombonera.
You might think you can just show up and buy a ticket, but it’s not that simple.
Stadiums are often sold out, and depending on the match, it can be dangerous to go alone. Add in the potential language barrier, and navigating such a chaotic place as a soccer stadium becomes even more challenging.
This is where HomeFans steps in.
Here’s how HomeFans works: you visit their website, where you can browse through a variety of experiences offered by local hosts. Once you find one that interests you, you can book it directly through the platform. From there, your host—often a passionate fan—will get in touch with you. Come game time your host guides you through the pre-game, the game itself, and the post-game, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
What sets HomeFans apart from other ticket services is that it’s not just about getting a ticket—it’s about experiencing the game’s culture as a local, which makes all the difference.
I recently used HomeFans to secure my tickets for the Botafogo vs. Palmeiras match on August 14, part of the Libertadores Round of 16.
Thanks to HomeFans, I managed to get my tickets well before they were available to the public.
My guide, Matheus Butrucci, was invaluable, helping me navigate everything.
As a lifelong Botafogo fan who grew up in Minas Gerais, I never had the chance to attend a Botafogo game in Rio. Though I had seen them play when they visited my state, going to Nilton Santos Stadium was always a dream—and thanks to HomeFans, that dream became a reality.
My personal experience with HomeFans was incredible.
My guide made the entire process smooth and enjoyable, and the match itself was unforgettable.
I won’t delve too deeply into the game here, as I’ve written a separate article about it, which you can check out here.
To wrap things up, if you’re like me and love both travel and sports, HomeFans is the perfect way to combine those passions.
With HomeFans, attending a game becomes more than just sitting in the stands; it’s about living the game as a “home fan.” It’s about truly experiencing the atmosphere and connecting with the local culture in a way that’s authentically immersive.
Whether you’re chasing the roar of the crowd in Buenos Aires or soaking up the football culture in Rio, HomeFans will make sure you don’t just see the game—you live it.