Guest Guidelines

This is where the fun begins!

Planning your Stay…

• Once you’ve found a listing in which you’re interested, please click on “Contact Me” and submit the corresponding request as soon as possible. The earlier you make your request, the more time you give the host to appropriately respond and plan for your stay!

• Please give the contacted member 24 hours to respond after you’ve sent your request.

• Keep in mind that members are not required to host every time they are asked; please be respectful and understanding if your stay request is denied.

Communication regarding the stay…

• Please be sure you understand and abide by your host’s preferences regarding smoking and alcohol use in their home. Also, be aware of pets your host may have, in case you have any allergies or concerns that would affect your stay.

• It’s entirely appropriate (and more fun!) to get to know your hosts, especially when making a stay request. Visit their Personal Profile here on our site, and communicate by email and/or phone before finalizing your visit.

Arriving at Your Host’s Home

• Upon arrival at your host’s home, you should verify each other's identity with a government issued ID. Also, please be respectful of any process for sharing keys or security codes. We think we have the friendliest, most courteous members around, but we still want to encourage general safety precautions for both hosts and guests.

• Hosts are expected to provide a room, clean linens, and towels in accordance with the number of guests agreed upon within the stay request. In addition, hosts are asked to provide a simple self-service breakfast for their guests. Please be considerate of these gestures.

• Please be respectful of your hosts' privacy and accommodations. Most homes do not have entirely closed off guests’ quarters, so please consider that by keeping noises to a minimum, or when leaving or returning at off-hours.

• It is perfectly appropriate to present your host with a small ‘hosting’ gift, and as always, it is best to keep it simple. Easy and appropriate options include a bottle of wine, a selection of teas or cheeses, or something else that you think your host would appreciate.

Have fun, enjoy your hosts and your birding adventure, and make the most of your time together!