What’s the Most Memorable Way You’ve Gone the Extra Mile for a Guest?

[Kathy134]

One of the things I love about hosting is creating special moments for my guests. Sometimes, it’s the little unexpected touches that leave the biggest impact—whether it’s surprising a honeymoon couple with a small gift, helping a guest celebrate a birthday, or simply offering a local recommendation that turns into the highlight of their trip.

I try to go the extra mile when I can, whether by adding special kitchen staples, offering local insights, or being available for any extra requests since I live nearby. It’s always rewarding to see how small gestures can make a big difference.

I’d love to hear from other hosts—what’s the most memorable thing you’ve done (or seen another host do) to make a guest’s stay extra special?

[Sussy0]

Hi @Kathy134! I love the topic! I've been hosting for awhile! but the first thing that popped in my mind was an occasion that I had to play interpreter over the phone for one of my guests. I felt so bad that this group of girls visited my country without knowing the language. It was just an adventure for them and I wanted them to feel super welcome and at home! So I interpreted, helped them with car rentals, was a "remote tourist guide... anything they asked for I tried to helped with. 

[Alex]

Thank you for sharing this @Sussy0! I'm pretty sure they really appreciated the help you gave them in order to enjoy their trip. 🤗 Since you were their "remote tourist guide", what places did you recommended them? 🌆

Kind regards, 

Alex

[Sussy0]

@Alex El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America where you can go from the mountains to the ocean in less than 3 hours 🤗! If seafood is your favorite thing El Salvador has the best beaches and restaurants to visit! Surf? Surf city is the best place to go! Hiking? How about a VOLCANO 🌋! Coffee lover? We have lots of coffee crops where you can experience the best fresh coffee and see how it is processed! Do you like whale watching? We got it too! Have you tried Pupusas! You have to come to El Salvador 🇸🇻! 

[Dawn241]

Anniversaries get a card & bottle of champagne, birthday cards, welcome notes written on jumbo postcards of the area, repeat customers get a 20% discount, I ask everyone what their favorite Kcups are before arrival, everyone gets a bag of pretzels & other snacks, everyone gets toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, hand sanitizer, lip balm. 

[Alex]

I absolutely love the selection of gifts you chose for your guests @Dawn241 ! I'm sure they appreciate them even more! What inspired you to put together such a thoughtful collection? I'd love to hear the story behind it!😄

Kinds regards, 

Alex

[Dawn241]

@Alex I also have local coupons- free fries, a free drink, free desert, free wine tasting. I also put together and constantly update a visitors guide. These are things that are low cost but I think they are things people really appreciate having on a weekend trip especially if the are traveling last minute or on a motorcycle they can pack light and everything they need is here when they arrive. 

[Julie5882]

@Dawn241 Favorite K-cups! So thoughtful and smart. 

Julie

[Ranveer1]

Thanks, @Kathy134 , for the wonderful conversation! I have this mindset—if I can do something to help, I will. Making guests happy is what I love most about hosting. Over the past seven years, I’ve gone beyond just providing a stay, whether it was assisting during a medical emergency, arranging late-night transportation, or even cooking homemade meals.

One of my favorite memories will always be the anniversary decoration I did for a guest’s parents. It was a surprise they had planned, and I took care of every little detail. Seeing their reaction was priceless—it’s a moment I’ll always cherish. Being a part of someone’s special memories is truly rewarding!

[Bhumika]

Hi @Ranveer1 , That's such a heartwarming story! It's incredible how you go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for your guests. 

Given that medical emergencies can be challenging, how did you manage to support the guest in that situation?

[Ranveer1]

Hello @Bhumika ,

Thanks for your response! I have a medical kit stocked with all the essentials, including bandages and antiseptics. Additionally, we have a medic on call for any emergency care. In rare cases, during odd hours, I’ve personally assisted my guests in reaching the hospital using my own transport to ensure their well-being.

[Bhumika]

That's brilliant @Ranveer1 , especially to have a medic available for emergency care definitely adds value!

How do you ensure that your guests are aware of the medical assistance available to them during their stay? Do you share this information during their stay or let them know in advance?

[Kathy134]

Wow, that’s such a beautiful approach to hosting @Ranveer1 ! It’s clear that you really go above and beyond to make your guests feel special, and those thoughtful gestures truly set you apart. I love the story about the anniversary surprise—it sounds like such a meaningful moment, both for you and your guests. Being part of their memories like that must feel so rewarding.

I always call this our "emotional income"—the priceless moments and connections we create that go far beyond money. It’s those personal touches that make all the difference and create unforgettable experiences! Keep up the amazing work! 😊

[Emilie]

I had never heard the expression "emotional income", what a lovely way to put it. I'll be stealing it to apply to parts of my own life @Kathy134 💛

[Kathy134]

I am so happy you liked "emotional income"! It’s a great way to describe the moments that really fill our hearts, isn’t it? Steal away, please! I think we all have moments that deserve that title! 💛

[Emilie]

Absolutely, Kathy! On a personal note for example, from now on, I shall refer to my puppy as my biggest source of emotional income -along with being the biggest reason I have upped my coffee consumption the past few weeks. 😁