Happy trails to you...

 

I love to travel.  I love printing my boarding passes, packing my trash magazines (a necessity for cross-country flights) and laying outfit options across our guest bed.  I even love packing; thanks in part to my parents who gave us a luggage set that actually accommodates the clothes I insist on packing but will never wear.  Though the airport goodbye is always a struggle (and I cry every time), I always look forward to landing in another city knowing I’ll be greeted by friends or family eager to see me.   As I begin laying out my clothes for another vacation (a much anticipated return to my hometown), I can’t help but think about and reflect on my experiences as a house guest.

Yes, I dance in the car! These people will NEVER see me again!

When traveling the country (or world if you’re that lucky), staying with friends and family not only saves you money (which can provide the funds for that souvenir or extra cocktail), but also lets you catch up with friends and loved ones.  However, there are a few simple southern rules for being a houseguest that won’t leave your hostesses thinking twice the next time you call for a stay.  Besides, you want your aunt with the cute beach cottage to extend her offer for many years to come.  Just follow these five tips for perfect houseguest etiquette and you’ll certainly be invited back.

1.    Be Clear About How Long You Will Stay

When booking your travels, be sure that your hostess has first extended an open invitation.  If they have suggested a visit, ask which dates will work with their schedule and never stay longer than a week (unless they insist).  Always share if you will be bringing pets, family, significant others, or a friends with you.  No one likes surprises! And unless you’re returning home, do not expect opened arms when you decide to drop in and surprise friends or extended family.  In fact, don’t be surprised when they, (awkwardly) have to turn you away.  Always make set plans and reconfirm a week out from your trip.

2.   Bring a Gift

If you were raised in the south, you know you are never to show up to a dinner party, family celebration, or reception empty handed.  Though most only consider bringing something for the hostess during the holidays, it is proper etiquette to follow this rule whenever someone opens their home for you, regardless of the occasion. Wine, chocolates, and other local items are always great options, but may not travel well depending on your mode of transportation.  If this is the case, consider picking up the tab during one of your meals or offering to grab the cab fare while enjoying a night out in the city.  In the event your hostess is adamant that you don’t pay a dime (lucky you!), consider including a gift card to his/her favorite restaurant or place to shop in your thank you note.  If mailing your hostess a gift, remember to do it no later than a month after your stay.  However, within 7 days is ideal!



Sweet, southern hostess gifts

3.   Give Thanks

Upon your arrival, be sure to thank your hostess for opening their home.  In addition to the initial word of thanks, you should thank them as you leave.  And finally, thank them in a handwritten note. Yes, we live in the age of immediate response and rely on text messaging and emails for communication amongst friends, but there’s nothing like reaching in to your mailbox to find an envelope that doesn’t contain a bill.  Take a few moments, share details of the fun you had, and give thanks once more for their generous hospitality. 

 

Thanks for "driving by" notecard on Etsy!

 

4.   Help Out

While we may be on vacation, remember your host is not.  Be considerate and offer to help cook meals or clean up afterwards.  If you get the vibe your host prefers to be the only cook in the kitchen, then think of other ways you could be helpful in the home. 

 

5.   Be Flexible



If you will be visiting for more than three days, understand that your host may have other obligations or work to attend to during your visit.  Check in with your host a week prior to your visit, share what things you’d like to do, and see if your ideas fit with their schedule.  Attempt to rearrange if necessary, but be prepared to entertain yourself if they can’t.  If this is the case, find the best mode of transportation to get you out and about, or ask to borrow a car.  By being prepared to entertain yourself before you arrive, you’ll save yourself the headache of changing plans at the last minute and your host the embarrassment of having to tell you no.  Once again, remember that you’re on vacation, they are not!

Our host had to work while we visited.  I didn't
mind visiting him at his job!

 

Remember, the goal is to be invited back, not become next week’s gossip.  And c’mon, you know us southerners love a tall glass of sweet tea and some juicy gossip to accompany it!  Happy travels darlin’!