So
the winter holidays are here and with the spare time that often comes with
them come thoughts of the coming summer and where to go…at least that’s
what I do when the frenzy of shopping and relatives is over. Where do I
want to go next summer? What part of the world do I want to explore? Do I
want a pool? Beach? Mountains? City? That’s when I begin my search…the
perfect people to trade houses with. And that’s when I begin to hear
from others with the same thought. They are also looking for an ideal
location to spend their summer and my location may be just what they are
looking for!
If
you like to travel you’ve probably heard of home exchange. Swapping
homes with people. Trading lives. Stepping into a country as more than
just a tourist. Living in a community and getting to understand a place
more than you would if you stayed in a hotel. Experiencing a place not
just as a visitor but living in a neighborhood, shopping for groceries,
interacting with the neighbors, taking out the trash - a more immersive
experience to be sure!
The
first question I am always asked when people find out I exchange homes
is, “Aren’t you worried about your stuff?”. Well, not really. Strangers
are living in my home but I’m also living in theirs! It’s a matter of
trust. In 13 exchanges over 7 years that trust has never been betrayed
or even mildly challenged. Our home is always returned to us in the same
condition as we left it, if not sometimes a little better!
As
I continue to write, I’ll be covering topics such as how to find an
exchange, pets, logistics, communication to avoid surprises, preparing
your home, car exchange (or not?!) and how to help your home exchange
partner get the most out of their time in your home. If you are
wondering anything specific, feel free to ask! I love helping people
travel this way and think it’s a piece of the sharing economy that
improves understanding and enjoyment of the world on the part of both
parties.
I hope you enjoy reading what I share!
No comments:
Post a Comment