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| MTips
– M is for Mary, M is for Mayflower, M is for Mimi... |
June,
2014 |
| John and I often have overnight guests at our home. Here's what I've learned: |
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First of all, we think preparing for house guests and operating tour programs has many similarities. Just as with a tour, guests want privacy in their accommodations. A guest bedroom dedicated to them is a must. |
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An attached bathroom is nice, yet their own bathroom is not critical. In travel circles we talk of an included bathroom as "en suite" - or "in the room". Buy a couple of inexpensive terry cloth robes so they can make any dash across the house in an appropriate feeling of modesty. |
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Everybody uses those luggage racks you find in hotel rooms. You set your suitcase on it and work out of there. Another inexpensive investment that would enhance their stay with you. |
| Here are some things that make it homey. You don't need all of these but it is nice to try and have: |
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Fresh flowers |
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Bathrobes (as mentioned above); thick towels;great soap; books of the area; Mayflower Tours travel brochures (OK, just kidding on that one); bottled water; an alarm clock. |
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A king-size bed would be nice but not necessary. however, make sure the bed is made with the best sheets, blankets and bed linens you own. |
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Good lighting for reading. Shades or blinds; a fan; and TV. |
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Written info on your home address, cell phone and wifi connect |
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Extra linens for the bed for your guests to change IF they ask |
| Meals |
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Dinner and drinks the first night at home |
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Have the dinner completely prepped before they arrive |
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Bar set up. Nice wine, sparkling water, guests favorite drink |
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Appetizers Italian meats, sausages and olives |
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What to serve? Moroccan chicken, yellow rice with peas, fresh bread and tossed salad. Dessert is a must which I like to do by the table. Grilled pound cake and sautéed strawberries in sauce with fresh whipping cream. |
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All other dinners are usually at restaurants (hopefully your guests will offer to pay for one or more meals out.) |
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Lunch – Anything you can pull out quickly from the refrigerator. Salads are always a winner! |
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Breakfast – Coffee all ready to make. First one up turns it on. Fresh fruits, bagels or sweet breads, butter, cereal and yogurt. Everybody helps themselves. |
| Activities. This is important: |
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Too many planned activities is not the best! One planned activity a day is enough. ME time is critical |
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Walking, Bicycles, Golf, Shopping and Pool time |
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The maximum home stay is no more than three nights. After that time, everyone gets antsy. Keeping a sense of humor and flexibility is the key to house guests. |
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