We focus on planning trips, booking flights and making hotel reservations. Vacations are filled with anticipation and expectations.  Once we arrive we are ready to start a great getaway without any challenges, but with lots of fun or relaxation. Let’s flip the switch here and talk about when all of that planning is done by a friend or family member and they are coming to stay with us! 

How do you make out of town guests feel at home, relaxed and enjoy their stay – just as if they are staying in a downtown hotel. 

We have several tips to help you become the best hostess for the wayward traveler.

Before guests arrive:

The guest room will be their sanctuary for the length of their stay. Make it say “welcome, come right in!”

• A couple of days prior to the visit, deep clean the bedroom and bath where guest will stay
• Ask about allergies and any particulars you need to know about to prepare your home for their arrival
• Make a grocery run to get paper products, toiletries and stock up on basic/essential food items 
• Make a clear and legible list of important information: WiFi codes, house address, security codes, provide any directions if needed
• Make a copy of the house key
• Check for any repairs and replacements around the house, and especially in their space – example – make sure there are no air leaks in the air mattress, light bulbs are replaced, floor fans operate, etc.

Plan activities for the children that are engaging and where they can learn about the area.

• Plan for guests routines – morning coffee/tea, long walks, reading the morning news alone, yoga, breakfast vs. quick bite – help staying “in the routine” easy for guests
• If you have pets, take into consideration their routine and make accommodations or make guests aware – example – suggest that guests close their door because the dogs may wake up early and want to come in for a visit.
• Longterm planning – make a guest room in a box – put pillows, linen, towels, blanket in a box, stow it away in a spot where it is not touched or used to replace day-to-day items. When it’s time to host guests, pull out your box and everything is there. No hunting around for your guest items too put in the bedroom or bathroom

When guests arrive:

• Have a spot for placing suitcases – best if a simple, foldable baggage rack which can be folded and stowed away after guests leave
• Have cold water waiting when they arrive. If you’re meeting them at the airport or train/bus station have a cold bottle of water in the car
• Make a welcome basket for their room, including bottle water, snacks (if you don’t already know, ask about favorite snacks and have them on hand)
• Place toiletries people tend to forget in a basket in the bathroom – example – toothpaste, toothbrushes, Q-tips, cotton balls

Take advantage of festivals and holiday events. They are perfect for guest outings requiring little planning.

• Have an itinerary for things to see and do – but keep it flexible so guests can make changes or add things
• If guests are visiting on business – plan a time to meet for drinks or dinner – to catch up and visit
• Invite friends over for a small intimate dinner part to meet your visiting family or friends
• Most importantly – think of what you would want and what makes you feel comfortable when traveling.

Make a special drink in honor of their visit. How special is that!