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Being a guest at someone’s property meant for vacation rental can feel daunting and make you feel jittery, especially if it’s your first time booking a place to stay that is beyond your comfort zone. Sure, there are rules to follow. However, there can be times when some aspects are unwritten or not put in black and white. So, to ensure that you remain in the good books of your host, these are some of the points to take note of.

1. Communicate with your host –with respect, honesty.

It’s important to communicate with your host in a polite manner. Remember that the host is letting you have a space to stay. Therefore, as a guest, you should always respect your host. Practice courtesy and honesty, especially if they do not come very easily for you. For example, if you’re going to arrive late at your host’s premises on the day your host is expecting you, try to remember to inform your host about it. It’s also not a good idea to lie to your host. Bear in mind that everything you do as a guest will eventually be noted down and can be reflected in reviews.

2. Respect your host’s space and know when to create some boundaries.

As much as you want to try and be friendly with your host, there is such a thing as being too friendly. Usually, those who have been hosting for quite some time should be able to spot anything unusual or suspicious. Even then, always stay on the safe side and know that your host needs his/her own time and space to breathe – the same way you need yours.

3. Refrain from doing anything that may upset your host.

Are you the kind of person who likes to talk loudly on the phone, especially at a time when the host is asleep? Or perhaps you have a habit of video-calling on your phone at a volume that’s too high? Perhaps, your smartphone’s notification sounds can be a source of disruption. Sometimes, as a guest, you might not think too much on these. Therefore, always double-check (maybe even triple-check) on these.  Even when the host is away or absent, it does not pay to be disobedient or rude.

4. Practice good hygiene and always be mindful of your actions.

No host who is mentally sound would want a guest who is unhygienic, selfish and irresponsible. Try your best to always keep your space free from dust and dirt. If you’re sharing a space, keeping your area clean becomes even more important. Good self-hygiene and manners are also essential. If there’s anything fragile that’s broken by accident, please do inform your host. Similarly, if something has malfunctioned or is not in working order, let your host know the soonest possible. Basically, be mindful and considerate that your actions are going to, directly and indirectly, affect others. Re-read point number one. Your host will appreciate it very much.

5. Choose your host carefully.

If you have a certain lifestyle, try to choose a host that has a similar lifestyle to yours. For instance, if you’re a party-goer, you might not be welcome in a home that has children. If you’re also very particular of certain things, make sure to take that into consideration when choosing a host. After all, hosts can also screen their guests thoroughly to minimise the chances of getting into trouble, especially when the law is concerned.

6. If you need to use anything, or any assistance, always ask first.

In case you need to use a certain appliance, tool, or even a space at any given time, it would make more sense to ask first. If you need help, approach your host at a suitable time, and let them know what exactly you need help with. Best for you not to assume that permission is granted and that your host is able to read your mind.

7. Research on the area or locality beforehand.

Prior to your arrival date, it’s a good idea to have some information on the district/locality you’ll be staying at. This will be useful so that you’re aware of the culture of a place and their related taboos. When you travel to a place that’s new, there may be many cultural similarities and differences that you may not be aware of. So researching on the location that you’re staying at will give you an advantage. In fact, you can even share with your host that you did research, and it’s likely that the host will be delighted to know that you’re interested in your chosen travel path.

8. Do check on the security levels, features, and the neighbourhood.

As a guest, one of the things you may overlook is the security level of the premise as well as the entire neighbourhood. Chat with your host and be sure that you’re aware of the security features put in place within the premises. In some neighbourhoods, there may be security guards doing their rounds. So, do take note of them. It may also be a good idea to jot down a few friendly neighbours, in case you’re wary of anything during your stay. Perhaps, you can also ask for a few contacts, if you need to ring them whenever there’s an emergency.

9. Show your gratitude towards your host –appropriately.

If you enjoyed the stay and had been treated well, why not show appreciation to your host? You might want to look into getting something small yet thoughtful for your host. You also want to ensure that the gift is appropriate. Usually, you are to hand this at the end of your stay.