BE THE MOST HOST

AS A GLOBAL SOCIETY FOUNDED ON FRIENDSHIP, WE EMBRACE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOME HOST OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, BOTH DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL

By Mr PAUL HOEKSEMA RT 32, Southern Africa

As travelling Tablers, any itinerary instantly becomes more exciting if it includes home hosting - it goes without saying, the warm hospitality of a fellow Round Table Family beats any hotel room, regardless of the view. Some of our most cherished memories of our time as Members and Past-Members are that of sharing stories and customs at the table (pun intended).

In a previous edition of Legacy, we touched base on how to be the perfect house guest. In this article, we would like to highlight a couple of guidelines to help you show your next guest(s) the best time possible.

HOW TO BE A GREAT HOME HOST

OPEN COMMUNICATION

From initial contact to your goodbyes, communication is key. Apart from exchanging obvious details such as dates and travel arrangements, enquire about your guest's possible dietary (and even medical) requirements and preferred sleeping arrangements. Inform them whether they should tag along certain items such as towels, washcloths, or international charging fittings.

YOUR GUESTS HAVE ARRIVED

First off, and it goes without saying, make them feel welcome! Break the ice - if you are hosting international guests, welcome them with a (researched) greeting or saying in their language, and remember to offer to help them with their luggage. Besides quenching their thirst, a local welcome drink (or drinks we are social with) can be a great conversation starter. Show genuine interest and inquire about their experiences on their travels. Take them on a guided tour of your residence, point out their bedroom and bathroom, answer any questions they might have, and explain the schedule for the duration of their stay.

DURING THEIR STAY

You do not need to overwhelm them, give them space and privacy but be attentive to make sure they have everything they need. Giving guests their dedicated space will make them feel like less of an intruder and more of a part of the family. If you need to head out for nonwork-related errands, ask them if they need anything from the convenient stores or if they would like to tag along. If your guests offer to help with tasks, let them without having them do all the work, this will make them feel more at home and that they are pulling their weight. Your guests can not head out with wrinkled and dirty clothing, be sure to offer to help with any laundry and ironing.

PLAN AHEAD

Proper planning will ensure your guests have everything they need for a memorable stay with you. You will no doubt have a late night or two to catch up. Ensure your guest is received to a clean house and room fitted with fresh bedding so they can get a good night's sleep. Stock your bathroom to ensure your guests have basic toiletries such as shampoo, body wash and toilet paper (don't forget the headache medication). Remove any personal items, such as family photos and portraits, from their dedicated room and make it as neutral as possible - this will make them feel less intrusive. Go the extra mile by creating some space for their clothes in the bedroom and for personal items in the bathroom. Ensure you have open power points and adapters to accommodate the charging of devices. There won't be much time to watch YouTube but have the WiFi password ready for your guests to check in on family and friends (and to tag you in a couple of photos on social media, of course). Plan your schedule and meals (in line with their dietary preference) for the duration of their stay. As a bonus, a printed welcome note with all the needed info will add a personal touch. You can even throw in a small treat hidden under their pillows.

SAYING GOODBYE

You should know that you have added another friend for life to your friends' list. Be sure to snap a couple of photos together to commemorate your time together and give them a small gift or even a Table souvenir (coins, pins, and signed banners are always a winner). Ask if you can assist with any transport arrangements and stay in contact with them until they arrive safely at their next destination and home. Now that you are a seasoned host go travel and explore Round Table...