Gentlemen understand the importance of being good hosts. It is among every distinguished man’s cornerstone of education and it can’t be stressed enough. What’s not being emphasised enough though, is how crucial it is to be a great guest.
A good old “visiting friends in (fill out your destination)” arrangement significantly differs from a regular hotel experience. You’re no longer a customer (and, as thought by some, “The King”), so prepare yourself for a very different paradigm.
It’s much more than bed and breakfast
Despite the answer you might give your colleagues when they ask about your holiday plans, you’re not simply staying at your friend’s. It’s much more than that. You’re working on a relationship. You’re strengthening your friendship. By the end of your stay, you’ll inevitably be closer. For a short period of time, you’ll become a family member, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to increase trust and mutual appreciation.
Avoid hotel behaviour
As a rule of thumb, try to analyse your behaviour from your host’s perspective (default it to his/her/their most demanding form, to be on a safe side). Would it bother you should your guest mess up the guest room, or just stand up and walk away from a cluttered table? Don’t take their service as granted. Give…
