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Step 1
The first step to remaining friends is money. People are hyper-sensitive about money. Make sure you share in the bills in a very visible manner. Don't be bashful. If you leave a tip, leave it while people are watching, if you offer to pay for something or chip in, state it while the group is paying attention. Share in expenses equally and no one will fault you. Take the higher ground. Pay your share.
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Step 2
Next step to being a great vacationer is parking. Pay attention to where you park your car. This sounds ridiculous but I've shared many vacations and people love to secretly complain to others how so and so takes up the whole driveway, etc. If you use the driveway, pull all the way up so others can use it. If you can park on the street so someone else will have a driveway spot, then please do so. If you and your spouse can avoid bringing two cars, please do so. If you have two cars and bring the smaller of the two, do it :-)
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Step 3
Bring physical goods with you that others can share. Beer, soda, other drinks, bring them and share them. When people ask if they can have a drink, just tell them they don't have to ask, just take it. Food, snacks, games, toys etc all apply here. Be the generous one. People will appreciate it and do the same for you.
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Step 4
The next step is to keep personality in mind. Know yourself and others. Try to be thick skinned when called for. Don't let a petty argument or personality style ruin the vacation. If things get really uncomfortable, address the issue privately and don't let egos ruin things.
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Step 5
Lastly, chores! Be obvious when you help out around the house. Don't clean the place while everyone is on the beach unless you tell them you are going to do so. Take out the trash and recyclables while people can see you do so. Sure there will be lazy people that won't do anything, but others will chip in. People will appreciate your efforts and be glad you are around.
