Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

Homestays.co.za ("we," "our," or "us") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our website and services.

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide, including:

• Name and contact information (email, phone number)
• Profile information and photos
• Payment and billing information
• Government-issued ID (for verification purposes)
• Communication preferences

2.2 Property Information

For hosts, we collect information about your property:

• Property details, descriptions, and photos
• Location and address information
• Availability and pricing
• House rules and policies

2.3 Usage Information

We automatically collect information about your use of our services:

• Log data (IP address, browser type, pages visited)
• Device information
• Location data (with your consent)
• Cookies and similar technologies

3. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide and maintain our services
• Process bookings and payments
• Communicate with you about your account and bookings
• Verify identity and prevent fraud
• Improve our services and user experience
• Send marketing communications (with your consent)
• Comply with legal obligations

4. Information Sharing and Disclosure

4.1 With Other Users

We share certain information between hosts and guests to facilitate bookings, including names, contact information, and booking details.

4.2 With Service Providers

We may share information with third-party service providers who help us operate our business, including payment processors, hosting services, and analytics providers.

4.3 Legal Requirements

We may disclose information when required by law or to protect our rights, safety, or the rights and safety of others.

5. Data Security

We implement appropriate security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.

6. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to provide our services and comply with legal obligations. You may request deletion of your account and associated data at any time.

7. Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

• Access and update your personal information
• Request deletion of your data
• Opt-out of marketing communications
• Control cookie preferences
• Request data portability

8. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience, analyze usage patterns, and deliver personalized content. You can control cookie settings through your browser preferences.

9. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites and encourage you to review their privacy policies.

10. Children's Privacy

Our services are not intended for children under 18. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without parental consent.

11. International Data Transfers

Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for such transfers.

12. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes and update the "Last updated" date at the top of this policy.

13. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:

• Email: privacy@homestays.co.za
• Address: South Africa

14. POPIA Compliance

We are committed to compliance with South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). This includes ensuring lawful processing of personal information and respecting your rights as a data subject.