How to Stay With Friends or Family When Traveling

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If you are lucky enough to have friends or family living in a different, or more exciting town, chances are you will visit them one day. Staying with friends or family is a great way to save money when traveling but you must be careful not to wear out your welcome by overstaying, or being too demanding. Here are some tips that can help.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Do not take for granted that you should not offer cash for your host's inconvenience, especially if you have children. Most likely, your host will not accept it, but keep in mind that extra supplies will be needed to accommodate you and your family. If there are three or fewer of you staying a minimum of 3 days, offer $100 to help with food expenses. It will still be cheaper than a hotel room. Offer it earnestly because it may be accepted.

Step2

Ask your host about the family's daily routine. If the husband has to be at work at 7 a.m. every day, you don not want to be in the shower when he needs to get ready. You don't want your rental car--if you have one--blocking his car in the driveway. You would like to make your visit as convenient as possible for your host, so try eating breakfast and dinner with them, and not at your leisure. Offer to help with the dishes afterward.

Step3

Make sure your host has agreed to the length of your stay before you arrive. Do not stay over that amount of time, even if you are enjoying yourself tremendously. Even if your host is gracious, do not assume that he or she is not being inconvenienced in any way. Often, plans are put on hold to accommodate guests in the home. Although your host is probably very happy to see you, he or she is expecting you to leave when you said you would.

Step4

Offer to take your hosts to dinner before you leave, or send a gift basket of some sort as soon as you return home. Let them know that you appreciated their hospitality.

Tips & Warnings

Upon arrival, bring a small gift for your hosts. Let them know you've thought of them and appreciate their generosity.
Keep in mind that your offers may be accepted. If it is something you adamantly do not wish to do, do not offer. Instead, find other ways to show your gratitude.

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Comments

BeingArtsy said

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on 1/10/2008 I think it could be. Although, some may need to see it. You may want to discuss their plans and your expectations in detail prior to agreeing to let them come stay. Thanks for the question!