Maybe you have travel plans for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hannukah, New Year's or you're just planning to visit friend or family over the holiday season.
Whatever the case may be, here are some good tips from etiquette expert, Jaqueline Whitmore on how to be an ideal guest to help you have a wonderful visit.
Whatever the case may be, here are some good tips from etiquette expert, Jaqueline Whitmore on how to be an ideal guest to help you have a wonderful visit.
- The Essentials: Plan ahead. Talk to your host ahead of time and ask what activities you’ll be doing and what clothing you will need. Remember not to over pack and bring only what you need including your own toiletries. It’s always wise to be prepared.
- Details, Details: If you’re running late or if your plans get derailed, let your host know as soon as possible. Be clear about your arrival and departure dates. And be prepared to pay for your own transportation if the host has other obligations or is unable to pick you up.
- Keep the Rhythm: When you arrive at your host’s home, keep the lines of communication open. If you’re interested in seeing specific sights and attractions or doing certain activities, let your host know. Be open-minded if your host already has an itinerary planned for you. Adjust to your host’s schedule and follow his or her rhythm. Be prepared to entertain yourself whenever your host has other plans or has to go to work.
- Dieting Diva: If you have food allergies or follow a special diet, let your host know ahead of time. It’s also a good idea to bring your own snacks. Always ask permission before helping yourself to food or drinks in the kitchen.
- Gracious Guest: As a token of appreciation, it is a nice gesture to bring a hostess gift. An orchid, a fruit basket, fine chocolates or bottle of your host’s favorite wine, liquor or champagne are popular choices.
- Helping Hands: Always offer to help out with the household duties. Make your bed, tidy up your bathroom, pitch in and clean up after yourself. It’s also a nice gesture to offer to take the host out to dinner during your visit.
- Wearing Out a Welcome: Never bring your own pets or children unless they are invited and don’t stay any longer than you promised. Remember the old adage: guests and fish begin to stink after three days.
- The Write Move: After leaving your host’s home, always write a thank-you note within 24 hours. This will help ensure that you are invited back again.
Jacqueline Whitmore is an internationally recognized etiquette expert, and the founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach.
http://www.etiquetteexpert.com/
http://jacquelinewhitmore.com/
http://www.etiquetteexpert.com/
http://jacquelinewhitmore.com/
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