Dear Margar-etiquette,

I will be visiting family and friends on overnight vacations this summer. Can you please help me be a good guest? I don’t want them to talk about me negatively behind my back or after I leave. 

Summer Guest

Dear Guest,

I appreciate that you want to be a good guest in someone’s home. With the casual nature of society today, I think that is often overlooked. There are many things you can do to be a good overnight guest, and I will list some here. But most importantly, just keep the foundational principles in mind: respect, kindness, and gratitude.

Here are some simple but meaningful ways to be a gracious houseguest:

1. Communicate clearly. Let your host know your arrival and departure times—and stick to them. Don’t surprise them by showing up early or staying longer than expected.
   
2. Bring a small gift. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—just a token of appreciation. A candle, some local treats, or even a handwritten note shows thoughtfulness.
   
3. Be tidy. Make your bed, keep your belongings neat, and help clean up after yourself—especially in shared spaces like the bathroom or kitchen.
   
4. Pitch in. Offer to help with meals, set the table, or do the dishes. Even if your host declines, the gesture will not go unnoticed.
   
5. Give them space. Be mindful that your host has a life, job, or family rhythm to maintain. Entertain yourself when appropriate and avoid being too demanding of their time.
   
6. Respect house rules. Whether it’s quiet hours, no shoes indoors, or a coffee routine—they’ve opened their home to you, so honor their preferences.
   
7. Leave no trace. Before you go, strip the bed (unless they ask otherwise), gather towels, and tidy up the room. This small act makes a big difference.
   
8. Say thank you. A heartfelt thank-you note after your visit—yes, the old-fashioned kind—will leave a lasting impression of your good manners and appreciation.
   

Being a delightful guest isn’t about perfection—it’s about being considerate. If you make your host’s life easier, not harder, you’ll be remembered fondly (and probably invited back again).

Warm wishes and happy travels,
Margar-etiquette

#LITA (Love Is The Answer)