The hottest new trend in vacations is house swapping. It’s economical, fun and offers an opportunity to live like a local. Find out if house swapping is for you.
Picture yourself on your dream vacation in Tuscany. Your lodging is a small house on a hillside surrounded by flowers. All around are rolling hills of grapevines with a castle or two scattered off in the distance. The price of your lodging is even more amazing than the views – Free!
House swapping: What’s it all about?
House swapping or home exchange is when two families in different parts of the country or world agree to trade homes for a vacation. Frequently, use of the family car goes along with the swap.
Location-Location-Location
Home exchanges are popular worldwide, especially in large cities like New York, London, and Paris. Don’t be discouraged, however, if you live in a small town. Visitors are also interested in quiet, restful vacations where they can live like a local. The trick is selling the qualities of your small town and its surrounding areas.
Advantages of home exchanges
- Money saved on lodging enables longer stays or more traveling
- Peace of mind of someone watching your home
- A built in pet sitter while you’re away
- Houseplants will be cared for
- Possible use of a car
- Experiencing a different culture as a local
- Additional savings by “cooking in”
- More space than a hotel room
- New relationships with other homeowners
Disadvantages of home exchanges
- Placing trust in a complete stranger
- Accidental breakages may occur
- Curious guests may snoop around your home
- Coordinating vacation dates may be challenging
- Last minute cancellations are difficult
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