How To Be A Guest Your Host Will Love

There are some of us who find ourselves as hosts this season, and others will surely be the guests. This time of the year sees many travelers for the holidays, with some staying at a loved one’s place. Make it a pleasure for them to host you.

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In Netflix’s Mind Your Manners, international etiquette expert and the show’s host, Sara Jane Ho, says that etiquette has no nationality, race or social class. 'The spirit of etiquette, no matter where in the world, is the same - it's about respect and consideration for other people, and how to put other people at ease around you,” Ho imparts.

As a guest, here are some helpful tips that will ensure the host considers a second invitation:

Be clear about the length of time you are staying. - It’s always helpful for the host to know your arrival date, along with its details as well as your departure date. This will make it easier for them to prepare for your stay. Along with this, don’t show up unannounced. Even if it your idea of fun is being spontaneous, bear in mind that not all people think the same way. It’s much better to have clear arrival and departure dates with a notice given well in advance of your stay.Icons 8 Team Via Unsplash

It’s not a good idea to show up with another friend or a pet in tow. - In consideration of the household you’re staying in, ask the hostess if you must take a friend, a significant other with you or even a pet before you include them as additional guests.Flouff Via Unsplash

Follow house rules. - There are homes with very specific house rules, and then again, there are some that are relatively relaxed. To save yourself and your host awkwardness, ask about the house rules if there are any, and abide by them. Knowing these will ensure a more relaxed and confident stay.No Revisions Via Unsplash

Bring your own towel and toiletries. - Don’t assume that these will be provided for you. You’ll also make a good impression of being prepared and independent if you come ready with these.Mel Poole Via Unsplash

Don’t depend on your host to entertain you all the time, nor should you expect to be served. - Exercise self-sufficiency. Your host may have to attend to other matters during your stay. In some cases, they may have work. Put them at ease, and let them know you’re okay to explore their city and generally be fine on your own. Dane Deaner Via Unsplash

Always leave the room or area assigned to you cleaner than you found it. - Do your best to be a courteous guest by leaving the place as clean as possible. Return chargers, gadgets, and the like where you found them. Wipe surfaces down. Make your bed. Don’t make your host feel like they have to hire specialty cleaners when you leave. In line with this, make sure you don’t leave your things. Save them the trouble of having to send something to you after your visit.Shop Slo Via Unsplash

Give your host a thoughtful gift. - It need not be extravagant. Perhaps a special treat from your hometown. Knowing their tastes and personalities will help you decide on a thoughtful present that shows your appreciation. Micheile Dot Com Via Unsplash

Send a thank you card. - Let them know how much you enjoyed your stay. If there were specific events or moments within your vacation with them, it would be nice to include your sentiments about memorable ones in your letter. Perhaps offer to host them next year. Finally, do not email this letter. Something they receive in the post is special. Enclose some printed photos of you together for a delightful memento of your stay.Joanna Kosinska Via Unsplash

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What if you are the guest to a party? The best case scenario is to be as confidently at ease as possible. With so many things going on during the holidays, it's not unusual to forget some little details that will save you from the trauma of embarrassment.

Here are some reminders:

1. Ask if you can bring something to share for the meal. If there is no need, bring a hostess gift such as a home fragrance, a candle, flowers or a bottle of wine. Should you find yourself bringing an edible gift, do not expect them to serve it at the occasion.

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2. Be aware of your company’s cultural practices. In the US, it’s normal to open gifts in front of the giver to show your appreciation, but in Asia, gifts are discreetly packed away at parties. Opening of them are saved for another time, often in private.

3. Honor the host by asking if it’s okay to bring gifts for the other guests. In some cases, the host could be having your entire barkada over. It is common sense to think that the party would be the most convenient time to give everyone their gifts, but still, honor the host and ask if it is indeed acceptable to bring gifts for everyone at his/her party. A simple, “Will we all exchange gifts in the party?” text will do to save you from an awkward moment.