Summer at our house is a big time for house guests.   Having a home where my guests feel comfortable is a priority for me.  Here are five of my favorite go-to tips for hosting house guests.

1. Give guests their own house key.  Being able to come and go as they please will help your guests feel at home in no time.  Giving them a key to the house will go a long way toward granting them this freedom.

2. Give your guests a place to hang their hat.  Or their suit, coat or dress.  In other words, make sure you clear out space for your guests to put their clothing.  Living out of a suitcase can get old quickly.  Having their clothes in a drawer will help your guests feel comfortable.

3. Give them the necessities.  Making sure your guests have their own fresh, clean towels keeps them from having to ask… or worse yet… to search for them on their own. Try having a stack of fluffy towels on the end of the bed when they arrive.

4. Give them a basket. A basket?  Absolutely!   Leave a goody basket for your guests filled with the sorts of things that might come in handy.  Bottled water, snacks, reading materials, and a list of local attractions will let your guests know you care.

5. Introduce them to the locals. Gift your guests with a memento unique to your locale.  Perhaps a book penned by a local author, or a culinary treat made by a local company. Or, for the very special guest, a gift from the local jeweler.

By following these five tips, you’re sure to make happy memories for your guests.  They’ll be amazed at your thoughtfulness, and your home may just become the destination of choice for traveling loved ones.