The holidays are approaching and overnight visits with family and friends can be a lot of fun. There is an etiquette to being a good houseguest. Below are some tips to make you the guest that gets invited back.
Wait to be invited.
Inviting yourself should be reserved for very close family and friends. Always clear the dates with your hosts prior to your visit. If you are delayed, phone as soon as possible. Don't show with extra unannounced guests. This includes children. Arrive when you say you will, and leave when you say you will. Unless, there is an emergency, you should not arrive earlier of stay later than your host expects.
Host gift
Take your host a gift. You should not arrive empty-handed. A nice candle, bottle of wine or tablecloth may make an appropriate host gift. If you feel comfortable enough to sleep in someone's home, choosing a gift should be easy.
Go shopping
If you are going to be a guest for longer than overnight, you should go shopping. Don't expect your host to provide your brand of coffee, or the snacks you like. Always include something the host can enjoy.
Meals
Good house guests don't expect their host to provide every meal. If you are allowed prepare some meals for yourself, cook for your host, or take them to dinner.
Have your own transportation
If you are staying longer than overnight as a convenience for yourself and not a destination visit, you should provide your own transportation. Expecting your host to drive you to events that do not include them, is poor house guest behavior.
Leave Fido at home
Unless Fido is specifically invited, he should be considered unwelcomed.
Entertain yourself
House guests are expected to give their host some alone time. Guests who know when to retreat are treasured by hosts. Take a nap, a walk, or entertain the children. Hosts need time to recharge when having overnight guests.
Keep your space tidy
Houseguest should keep their sleeping quarters and the bathroom presentable at all times.
Wash your dishes, keep up with your belongings.
Pack a robe
Dashing through your host's home half-dressed is a no-no. Your robe should provide adequate coverage. It should not be short or sheer. Always err on the side of modesty.
Follow the rules
Pay attention. Are your hosts removing their shoes, before entering their home? Do they only eat in the kitchen? Be considerate of the management of the household.
Keep quiet
If you have complaints about your room, the food, their children or neighborhood, keep quiet. Your host should not be made aware of your minor discomforts.
Your linen
When your visit is complete, strip your bed and put your linens in a pillowcase at the foot of the bed. Any bath towels should be placed there as well. Neatly, replace the comforter or bedspread.
Thank you
As soon as you arrive home, send a thank you note. Let your host know that you appreciated their hospitality. A reciprocal invitation is a wonderful way to show your gratitude.
Following these simple tips will ensure that your visit will leave good memories.