How to Be a Good Houseguest

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There’s an art to being a good houseguest – now you can master it.

Step 1: Communicate
Communicate. It’s that simple. Make sure you and your host agree to the length of your stay, what you might need, and your itinerary.

Step 2: Use common sense
Use common sense and don’t show up with surprises. Don’t bring unexpected children or pets.

Step 3: Give a gift
Give a gift. Surprise your host with a small token of appreciation, such as a candle, a tin of tea, or a gift basket.

Step 4: Offer help and be courteous
Be courteous by offering help. Your host may love to wait on you, but offering to cook, do the dishes, or take out the trash might be a pleasant change of pace for them.

Tip
Tell yourself, 'I will not put extra work on my host' – and follow through with that promise.

Step 5: Keep your room clean and tidy
Keep your room clean and tidy – and when it’s time to leave, fold your bed sheets neatly at the foot of the bed or place them in the pillowcase.

Step 6: Leave money for utilities and any other expenses
Leave money for utilities and any other incurred expenses. Guests often forget this part of their visit, so be sensitive to what your host may have to pay once you leave.

Step 7: Be grateful
Tell your host how much you appreciate their hospitality. Immediately after your visit, write a thank-you note. An expression from your heart will make them look forward to your next visit.

Did You Know?
Did you know? The word "guest" descends from the Latin hostis, meaning stranger or enemy.