| of us know what it is like to have had a house guest | | | | as neat as you find it. |
| stay just a little bit too long for our pleasure. | | | | Spend some hours away from your hosts and their |
| Here are some tips on making the experience | | | | house each day. This will be better for both of you for |
| enjoyable for your hosts, and you will always be | | | | it will freshen your time together. Plan sight seeing or |
| welcome again.. | | | | visiting other friends ahead of time, if you can, and let |
| When you prepare for your stay, try to avoid packing | | | | your hosts know when you will be gone and will come |
| more clothing and items than you will need. Multiple and | | | | back, and if you can, leave for them a way to contact |
| bulky suitcases can be a minor nuisance to your host. | | | | you. |
| But please remember to bring one item in particular: a | | | | Visiting family has special considerations. Even though |
| host or hostess gift. Select either a classy gift or one | | | | they are family, try to be a good guest. Resist |
| that characterizes your own home city or country, for | | | | criticizing your relatives or their home while staying with |
| instance: a loaf of San Francisco sourdough bread, | | | | them. Do not give advice there if not asked for it, even |
| Swiss chocolate, or lavender soap from France. | | | | if they are your children. Let them feel like they run |
| Stow your luggage and items as out of the way as | | | | their own home. |
| possible when in their home, preferably out of sight in a | | | | Offer help when you are visiting, particularly when you |
| closet, and keep your guest area neat at all times. | | | | see need or opportunity. You might also be able to |
| Make your bed in the morning. | | | | lend your own expertise. For instance, you may notice |
| Be especially neat in the bathroom. Do not leave your | | | | they have a leaky faucet, and you are experienced |
| toiletries there if there is limited counter space. Always | | | | and fixing them, but unless they are family, ask before |
| rehang your towels neatly and leave the sink clean. Do | | | | beginning. |
| not leave puddles of water on the floor. Try to leave it | | | | |