A couple of times I have been caught traveling in blizzard conditions. They can come up rather unexpectedly and if you’re not well prepared, it can turn into a rather troublesome or very a dangerous situation. Many years ago, I was flying into a destination where snow was expected. The pilot kept alerting the passengers
When looking for house, condo, or apartment accommodations, I always ask if there’s a dishwasher, a washing machine and a dryer. Also, I like to confirm that they’re working. Then it is convenient to do a load or two of laundry if you choose, during your trip. I don’t particularly care for washing dishes by hand
I was dreaming, and in my dream there were people singing and yelling. It seemed like a large crowd. Then I woke up and found out that it wasn’t a dream! Sleeping comfortably and peacefully is very important to me, especially when traveling. Wherever I’m staying, I’ll ask prior to arrival about any noise from
When inquiring about accommodations, don’t be afraid to ask about the bedding, linens or towels. I often read reviews from other people to see their opinion about those items. If there is a bad review about the linens or towels, I will question the owner about it. I want to ensure that they are in
Depending on what kind of climate you’re traveling to, you might want to inquire if there’s air-conditioning and/or heat at the accommodations. Be sure to request that the thermostat will be set prior to your arrival, so that the place will be at a comfortable temperature when you arrive. I do not want you to go through
Sometimes in Home Exchanges & Vacation Rentals, “small things” are forgotten. So I like to personally request that some space is left open in the closets along with available hangers, as well as some empty drawer space. I’m always amazed when I arrive somewhere and there’s no place to put any of my clothes! I
If you are arriving at your accommodations at night when it’s dark, request that the owners or host turn on the front door light so you won’t be stumbling around in the dark! I always “hate” when there is no light and then I’m dropping bags to try to find my mobile phone, to turn on
It’s important to get as much information as possible, or put in any requests you may have, before you travel and stay in someone else’s home or owner’s vacation rental. One important point – make sure you have all contact information, names, phone numbers, email addresses, etc., in case there is any kind of problem. Ensure that
Once in a while, you might have trouble getting the exact location or dates for your home exchange. But there may be homes that offer hospitality in the location you’d like to visit. Hospitality is where the owners are on the premises, but where they offer a room, or suite in their house, or may
Whether you are looking at a home exchange or even an owner vacation rental, it is “key” to establish good rapport, in locating your ideal place. You can start communicating through the messaging offered on sites, and getting to know the person. You may ask questions regarding the area, the accommodations, and the dates of