My husband and I recently bought a home in South Carolina. We spent the winter there this year. Because most of our family and friends are from colder climates, we had a lot of company. As much as we ���welcomed��� our guests, we discovered that some guests were better than others.
We have all experienced being a houseguest at one time or another. You may spend the weekend on the lake with a business associate, stay with family for the holidays or visit dear friends that you haven't seen in a long time. No matter what the situation, there are do's and taboos. Here are some tips to make your visit a pleasant one for your hosts so that you will be invited back.
Be clear about arrival times
Don't arrive unannounced, and don't show up before your scheduled arrival time. Your hosts may be cleaning, shopping or even taking a shower. If you are going to be earlier or later than you planned, call your hosts to let them know.Discuss your itinerary
Don't expect your hosts to constantly entertain you. Discuss with them what you would like to do and then ask if they are able to join you in the activities. If they are unable to join you, be respectful of their time. Let them know when you will be returning from the day's activities so they can plan for dinner accordingly.Bring a gift
Buy groceries, bring some wine or surprise your hosts with fun appetizers or snack foods. When we would stay with our aunt and uncle in Florida for a week, I would offer to cook them a meal during our stay. We would buy the groceries and my husband and I would prepare the meal. It was a wonderful treat for our hosts.Be sensitive about pets
Ask if you can bring a pet with you. One guest arrived at our home with a dog and a cat. The dog was a real sweetie; the cat hissed at my cat every time they were together. So we had to keep the animals separated. Be sensitive and do what you can to make it easy for the host's pets to be comfortable in their environment.Pitch in and help
Unload the dishwasher, set the table, offer to run to the grocery store to pick up something and strip your bed when you leave. Hang up your coat in the closet; don't just leave it hanging over the chair. Do whatever you can to make less work for the host.Keep your guest room neat
Wet towels belong on the towel rack in the bathroom, not on the floor in your guest room. Please keep your guest room neat and clean. If the host walks by or has to go in the room to get something, you don't want her to feel like she will have to hire help after you leave.Express your gratitude
Send a handwritten thank-you note after the visit. It's nice to mention things that happened during your stay. You might want to say that you loved playing cards with them every night - even if the guys did win. You could comment on the lovely view or mention that you ate too much food. Let your hosts know that they created a memorable experience for you.Remember these tips the next time you are a houseguest. Be the kind of guest who will attract a repeat invitation and you will always be welcome.
©2009 Professional Image Management
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