The Human Connections That Make Hosting Special

[Alain-Daniel0]

Hi Rebecca,

I’m an expat living abroad with my family of six, including our four children. Since we have a large house and garden, we welcome guests by offering them the ground floor and terrace.

One of the most rewarding parts of hosting is seeing our children play with guests’ children, effortlessly overcoming language barriers and connecting through fun and curiosity. It’s also always a special moment when we meet people from my home country. I enjoy the conversations and am happy to help with small things, whether it’s recommending a grocery store or figuring out where to order food late at night, which is almost a mission impossible in our town! 😄

These human connections are what make hosting so enjoyable and continue to motivate both me and my family. The vast majority of our guests are friendly, respectful, and considerate. After all, when we go on holiday, we are guests too, so we understand the experience from both sides.

Hosting has allowed us to meet wonderful people from all over the world, and that is something we truly value.

[Snehal1]

Hi Alain-Daniel,

I’m glad to hear this — it sounds wonderful that your home brings people together, especially your children connecting with guests. I wish I could join in person, but I live 15 miles away so I can’t. I do keep in touch with guests via WhatsApp and phone, and still enjoy great conversations and warm connections that way. Thank you for sharing how hosting has brought your family and visitors closer — it’s truly special.

[Rebecca]

Thanks for sharing @Alain-Daniel0 😊 I love that your children have the chance to meet people from all over the world and connect so naturally. Those little moments, like helping guests find somewhere to eat late at night, must make the stay that bit more memorable.

And thank you @Snehal1 😊 It's lovely to hear that you've found ways to build those connections too, even from a distance. It shows that being available and keeping in touch can make guests feel just as supported. 

For both of you, has there been a guest or family you've stayed in touch with long after their visit? 

[Alain-Daniel0]

@Rebecca We've had very few guests stay in touch, which is quite understandable. Once visitors have been to our town, they often don't return until a few years later. 😉

That said, some guests who attend the fairs and events organized here in town do come back regularly, which is always great to see.