Being a good guest
Being a good guest is as much an art as being a good hostess and consideration is the key to both.
Someone once summed up good guest behaviour like this: ‘Be punctual, be polite, be pleased!’ This is sound advice, to which one can add ‘Be definite’! Nothing is more exasperating than the guest who replies, ‘I don’t mind,’ or ‘just anything will do,’ when asked about preferences.
Try to fit in to the household routine without causing a fuss, but accept little kindness with gratitude and express your thanks.
Offer to help but don’t insist if you realise your hostess would rather you didn't.
Be ready to keep quiet when family’s favourite programme is on, or when the conversation does not you.
A small gift on your arrival or departure is a pleasant thought, but don’t give large expensive presents which may embarrass your hostess. Flowers, Chocolate; a pot of home-made jam, or local honey, or fresh vegetables or fruit from your own garden, all these are acceptable gifts. Be wary of buying which you have noticed during your stay is lacking. This could be upsetting!
Thank your hostess and family on your departure, and write or make a phone call as soon as you arrive home to express your thanks again. Remember to refer to things you have specially enjoyed!