When exploring a country we like to meet local people as we think it’s only like this you really learn how a country is. Over the years we have met some very interesting hosts and had some very entertaining conversations with them. We have learned that people who open up their house to strangers are mostly warm and friendly people. All hosts have their own reasons why they are on Airbnb. Some hosts needed some extra money, had spare rooms after the kids have left or just want to meet people from over the world without travelling themselves. Only their main reason is often a good entry point for a good and interesting conversation.
It is always a surprise with whom you end up. When I was in Los Angeles for work and stayed an extra day to explore the area, I ended up with an actress who rented out a room. She played in some movies a couple of years ago.
You can also meet other fellow travelers during your stay. Sometimes the hosts rent out multiple rooms and like this we have met people from across the globe. It makes it a nice mixed gathering in the evening. Each telling his own adventures, compare how life goes in our own countries. Of course you are free to meet up with them or not.