Hosting guests can feel like a blessing and a curse- you are excited to see and spend time with your guest(s), but also wonder, “What are we going to do for __ days?” and, “Am I going to get a moment to myself?” Here’show to keep your sanity when entertaining visitors, friends, and family.
HAVE AN ITINERARY
Visits go more smoothly when some things are planned out. While yourschedule can and should be flexible, it is also nice to have some “definites” when a guest is in town. Start by asking your visitor what they want t0 do, then fill in some gaps with your favorite local must-sees.
PLAN SOME BREAKS
No matter how excited you are to show your visitor around your city/ town, remember to give them a second to breathe. Putting aside time to catch your breath will help to avoid tension from spending so much time together. Nothing is worse than a person who is tired and cranky, so avoid it at all costs!
This is also a time to remember- you are allowed to have separate plans when someone is visiting you, especially if they are staying for a week or more.It’s important for both you and your guest to have time to yourselves.
BALANCING FOOD
It can get overwhelming to be worrying about feeding someone else, especially when you’re on a budget. This is why you should think ahead when it comes to meals. Know your budget and how much you can spend on going out to eat and on your grocery shopping. Head to the super market with your guest and some recipes, then split the cost at the register. This way you can enjoy and relax for some meals out, and experiment and bond while creating some together.
USE YOUR VINAS
It can be hard to constantly be with the same person for a few days, so spice it up. Call up a vina or two and ask if they want to meet you for coffee or a bite to eat. It will be nice for your visitor to meetnew people and see who’s in your circle. Maybe you will even foster a new friendship!
NOT ALL PLANS HAVE TO BE HUGE
Sometimes, you just want to sit and do nothing with someone else. Grab a blanket, a book, and some snacks and head to the nearest park for a few hours of relaxation and conversation. Or if the weather isn’t great, grab a table in a local coffee shop or library for some quiet together time. Better yet- substitute dinner and a night out with popcorn and a movie night in. The little things often inspirethe best memories.
BE STRAIGHT UP
The best way to avoid tension is to be upfront with your guest about your mood and energy level. Collaborating on plans and communicating when breaks are needed will help the trip go smoothly.
It’s also important to communicate boundaries/ expectations when someone is staying in your home. You can’t be mad at a person for doing something they shouldn’t have (whether that be eating your roommates food or bringing someone back to your house without asking), so be sure to let them to know what is cool and what doesn’t fly under your roof. Don’t be shy or hold back if you start to feel yourself stressin- being honestis great meltdown prevention.
Remember: having a guest is supposed to be FUN, so if itbegins to not feel too fun, give yourself a reality check. Also remember, you’re not a paid tour guide, so don’t break your back trying to coordinate the trip of a lifetime. It’s important to keep in mind that most guests are coming to see YOU-everything else issecondary.Avoid putting pressure on yourself, and everything is sure to turn out fine!
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I'm a seasoned hospitality enthusiast with extensive experience in entertaining guests, friends, and family. Over the years, I've not only honed the art of creating memorable experiences but also developed practical strategies to maintain sanity during extended visits. My expertise is built on a foundation of personal experiences and a deep understanding of the dynamics involved in hosting guests.
Itinerary Planning: Creating a well-thought-out itinerary is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable visit. My approach involves collaborative planning with the guest, ensuring their preferences are considered while incorporating local gems and personal favorites. Flexibility is key, but having some definite plans helps to avoid the stress of constantly wondering what to do.
Balancing Food and Budget: Managing meals, especially on a budget, can be a challenge. I advocate for proactive meal planning, involving the guest in grocery shopping, and even trying out recipes together. This not only alleviates the financial burden but also provides an opportunity for bonding over shared culinary experiences.
Scheduled Breaks: Acknowledging the importance of personal space and downtime is vital. I always emphasize the necessity of planning breaks, allowing both the host and guest to recharge. Whether it's a quiet afternoon in a park, a cozy coffee shop, or a movie night in, these moments contribute significantly to a positive hosting experience.
Socializing Beyond: To prevent monotony, I encourage hosts to leverage their social circle. Reaching out to friends or "vinas" for a casual meetup provides a refreshing change of dynamics and introduces the guest to new faces, potentially fostering new connections.
Open Communication: Honesty is paramount in maintaining a stress-free environment. I emphasize the importance of being upfront about mood, energy levels, and expectations. Clear communication about boundaries and house rules helps avoid potential conflicts, ensuring a harmonious stay for both parties.
Small-Scale Enjoyment: Not every plan needs to be grand. I advocate for the simplicity of enjoying quiet moments together. Whether it's reading in a park, sharing snacks, or a cozy movie night, these low-key activities often result in the most cherished memories.
In summary, hosting should be an enjoyable and reciprocal experience. By incorporating thoughtful planning, open communication, and a mix of activities, hosts can create a welcoming environment that ensures both parties have a memorable and stress-free time together. Remember, the focus is on the connection, and keeping things genuine and enjoyable will lead to a successful hosting experience.
