It’s Wednesday! And you know what we do on Wednesdays? We share little tips to help you become a home exchange pro!
Today, we’re talking about good guest etiquette, inspired by a question recently asked in the group:
“We’re currently doing a home exchange outside Paris for 3 weeks and we’re taking our time to really enjoy the experience. We’ve even made some friends in the neighbourhood! I was wondering what the etiquette is when it comes to inviting people over for dinner. Should I ask our host for permission?”
The answer is a bit nuanced, and most members agreed that yes, it’s best to ask your host first. Firstly, it’s about being respectful of your host’s home and privacy. Secondly, as a guest, you’re responsible for the home you’ve been trusted with and for what happens there during your exchange.
As always, the key to a great exchange is communication — before and during the stay — and being open and transparent.
What do you think? Have you ever found yourself in this situation?
I had that experiece in Bibione, Italy. Some friends of mine have their own second home overthere but all are tiny flats. I had the occasion to have a big HE flat ,with a wonderful huge balcony perfect for a drink all together in the evening. I asked the owner to do it and when she said yes, we organised it (of course being careful with noise).
Very wonderful memories of that “beach HE” and always grateful to the host for that opportunity.
We have come across this situation several times. On some occasions we have been informed, while on others we have found out through neighbours or because the guests themselves have “given it away” through their actions.
Personally, I believe it is a basic matter of courtesy to mention it in advance and ask for permission. And of course, if the listing states that young children or pets are not allowed, that condition should also be respected in the case of visitors.
That said, I don’t see this as something negative in itself, especially when the exchange is long-term. After all, if people stay in a home for fifteen days or a month, they naturally settle into everyday life and may meet others or receive visits from friends or family.
However, there is a clear difference between a one-off daytime visit and someone staying overnight for several nights. In the latter case, I think it is reasonable as long as the maximum capacity declared on HomeExchange is not exceeded. For example, if three people are travelling and the house is listed for a maximum of six guests, I have no problem with them receiving up to three additional visitors, whether for one night or several, since the GuestPoints I receive already correspond to that maximum capacity.
We usually do long exchanges, and before confirming them we discuss this topic along with many others. The more things are clarified in advance, the less likely misunderstandings are to arise later.
I would ask. I have had guests ask me to host their children for dinner and it was fine. It is good to know if there might be issues such as parking that should be addressed.
And you know what we do on Wednesdays? We share little tips to help you become a home exchange pro!