Living abroad for so many years, we’ve had our fair share of friends and family visiting us in the various countries we’ve called home. Each visit has been a joy and over time, we’ve learned a thing or two about how to make overnight guests feel welcome. Here’s my take on how to be a great host, sprinkled with a few personal touches that always seem to go down well.
Create a Comfortable Space for Your Overnight Guests
Start with the basics: fresh bed linens and towels. Nothing says “welcome” like a clean, inviting bed with a comfortable mattress. If the weather’s cold or your guests tend to feel the chill, spare blankets and pillows are a must. I also love adding bathrobes—they’re such a luxurious touch and always appreciated.
Make sure your guests have easy access to a bin and a mirror, plus a place for them to put their clothes and tuck away their suitcases. Slippers are another thoughtful addition, especially if you’re a shoes-off household like us.
A clean guest room and bathroom are non-negotiable. I like to think of it as creating a little haven for my guests.
Stock Up on Essentials
Providing basic toiletries is a small gesture that makes a big impact. I always include shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and hand soap. While I usually skip toothpaste (everyone has their favourite brand), having a well-stocked bathroom ensures guests don’t need to dig through their bags for basics.
For overseas visitors, a multi-country adaptor is a lifesaver. We’ve even added USB plug options to ours, which are incredibly handy for charging phones and tablets. Don’t forget to share the Wi-Fi login details; it’s always one of the first things people ask for!
Add Thoughtful Extras for your Overnight Guests
Little touches go a long way. A few magazines on the bedside table, a hairdryer and some local books or brochures about your area can make guests feel at home. If you’re into scrapbooking or memory-keeping, consider a guest book for visitors to leave a note. We love ours—it’s filled with kind words, doodles and even a few sketches from creative friends. We’ve also embellished it with photos of memorable visits, turning it into a treasure trove of memories.
Make Their Stay Easy
Stock your fridge with some essentials and snacks. While you don’t need to play full-time chef, having breakfast basics and a few easy meals ready to go is always appreciated. I also like to plan a few activities to showcase the local area but try not to pack every minute of their stay. Guests shouldn’t expect you to be their personal tour guide, so communicating this upfront is important. A balance of planned outings and downtime works best for everyone.
Set Boundaries for Longer Stays
When hosting guests for longer than a couple of nights, it’s important to remember that your life doesn’t need to go on hold. Communicate your family’s schedules beforehand to manage expectations. Letting them know when you’ll be at work, running errands or simply needing some quiet time can help ensure everyone is on the same page.
The Key Is Thoughtfulness
In the end, being a great host isn’t about extravagance—it’s about thoughtfulness. Creating a welcoming environment, offering small comforts, and communicating openly will make your guests feel valued and at ease. Hosting doesn’t have to be stressful; with a little preparation, it can be just as enjoyable for you as it is for them.
Read about “How to be a Great Guest” here.
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