Guesting: Host Gifts

I’ve had a great view of a variety of guests. I’ve had guests that made me cry to say good-bye to. I’ve had guests who made me cry on purpose. I’ve begged people to stay longer and I’ve invited people to leave. Here are just a few thoughts.

Do you need to bring a hosting gift? No, you do not.

Unless your relationship was established through Airbnb, your hosts are not asking for or expecting payment or gifts. They invited you to stay because they care about you. If you want to bring a token of your appreciation, consider who you actually appreciate and why. For example, did someone give up their room or bed for you? That’s a good gift candidate. Is anybody driving you all over, seeing or doing wonderful things? They might appreciate a nod. If you are invited to stay and you are low on funds, you should write a heartfelt thank you card and express your gratitude through your actions.

Be aware that lots of cultures have lots of different traditions. If their background is different than yours, it can help your relationship with your hosts if you do a little research on their culture to find out what is best to bring. If your own culture has a strong tradition that you like to follow, explain what your tradition is when you present anything to your hosts. It is safest to assume that people do not know your traditions, but would love to know more about you by hearing you explain them.

Don’t let gift giving stress you out. If you bring a gift to a host home, it is meant to be a token of your gratitude for the time, expense and effort to which your hosts are going on your behalf. Give it as you arrive or leave it behind when you go. Since this is a gift of appreciation, it’s worth putting some practical thought into. If you’re going to something as straight forward as dinner, keep it simple. Ask about a favorite dessert or what they like to drink with dinner. Bring the favorite thing and enjoy your meal.

Want to contribute something nice to your weekend hosts? Are they feeding you breakfast in the mornings?Try bringing a dozen eggs and a gallon of milk. Not special enough? Fine, buy organic. Everyone will enjoy them together and you’ll be the hero of breakfast.

Are you staying for several days? Take the whole family out for a nice dinner at their favorite restaurant. Too much money? You could offer to babysit. You could wake up early and cook them breakfast. You could just entertain the kids. You, in fact, have the ability to be far more entertaining than the most expensive toy. A parent of young children would probably appreciate someone diverting the youngster’s attention while they try to get a few things done. Pitch in!

 

Remember, your hosts are glad to see you. Keep them glad by being a good guest!