Five Tips for Entertaining Long Term Houseguests

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

30 Oct 2006 08:46 AM

Houseguests come and go. Some stay quite a while. This can be a wonderful chance to spend time with people you otherwise rarely see, if you can beat the stress that accompanies having company. If you keep a few simple tricks and tips in mind, the visit will be more enjoyable for you and your guests.

1. Provide a comfortable, private space. If it means moving the kids in together temporarily so your guests can have a private room, it is often worth the change. Kids tend to adjust quite well and often enjoy the adventure of "sleeping over" in each other's rooms. You and your guests will be more comfortable if they have space to store their belongings out of the way instead of in main living areas. You will also have more privacy this way. It is awkward to have a guest on the sofa.

2. Having guests for extended visits can also get expensive. Try to plan menus in advance so you can cook at home often rather than going out to eat for every meal. Of course, there will be times when it's simpler to stop and grab something, so be flexible, but try to have more meals at home than out.

3. Gather up fast food coupons and restaurant discounts before your guests arrive. If you don't feel like cooking and decide to order a pizza, you can still save at least a little money.

4. To keep guests entertained, pick up a fresh deck of cards to keep handy. Get your board games organized and make sure all the pieces are there, so on some afternoons or evenings you can sit down and play a game. This is a great way to relax while still having something to do to prevent boredom.

5. Take advantage of free attractions and historical sites in your area. Become a tourist along with your guest and do some site-seeing. You'll probably be surprised by the many things there are to do in your area, for little or no cost. Check with your local Chamber or Commerce or tourist information center before your guests arrive.

Related Reading:

Make Your Guests Feel at Home

Four Tips for Entertaining

Deep Cleaning

Do You Febreze?

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger