4 tips to be an amazing houseguest

Whether you are staying with family or visiting good friends (who feel like family) for the weekend, house-guest etiquette matters. Here are some tips to follow to be a star guest (and get invited back again).

NEVER SHOW UP UNANNOUNCED

Before you ring that doorbell to surprise your host with an impromptu weekend stay, think again. Failing to let them know when (or if) you’ll arrive is breaking the cardinal houseguest rule. Always clear up your ETA with your host. That way, they will have ample time to prepare for your stay and have time to plan accordingly.

GIVE YOUR HOST A BREATHER

Although your host is over the moon about your visit and will want to spend as much time with you as possible, be mindful that they still have to carry on with their day-to-day activities. Go through your itinerary together and plan some activities on your own like exploring surrounding areas or running some much-needed errands. Hosting can be exhausting, so allowing your host some ‘time off’ will ensure a smooth stay.

FOLLOW HOUSE RULES

After arrival, take note of any house rules your host may have. Are there specific rules with the kids or pets in the house? What time do they normally go to bed? By enquiring about and observing any rules and routines they may have, you will avoid any misunderstandings with your host.

OFFER A HELPING HAND

Is your host doing all the cooking and cleaning? Offer to help out around the house during your stay. If they reject your offers to clean, get creative in your approach. Tell them you’ll walk their dogs, get take-out one evening or offer to babysit their kids while they go on a night out (or take a well-deserved nap). You’ll be classified as a star guest in no time!

Also read: Holiday headaches

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