"In this whole world full of fear-mongering that we’re living in at the moment,  
it’s a nice little patch of something so trusting and human that you’re sharing.”

-Nicola Murray – Australian Home Swapper 

Most of us have some degree of anxiety when it comes to travel: safety, comfort, flight changes, where to stay, etc. can be sources of stress and interfere with enjoying our experience—or even planning our trip! So, in July, Habiqo Home Swap and I began fielding questions about your travel concerns with the aim of helping to lessen them.

In July’s blog, I addressed our “What Ifs,” and how they can prevent us from pursuing our travel dreams, among other goals. In this month’s blog, I’d like to focus on anxiety and how to develop greater confidence and ease when arranging a home swap.

Survey Question:

If you’re curious about doing a home swap but feel anxious about it, what would help you feel more comfortable?

Claudine: “I would feel more comfortable if I could get to know the person I’m swapping with beforehand and see reviews from other people who have swapped with them.”

Theresa:

I can so relate to wanting to feel safe and comfortable before arranging a home swap; in fact, for me, it’s the most important part of the process and sets the tone for the trip.

I generally start out looking at someone’s profile—what they’ve shared about themselves, photos of their home, and reviews from other home swap members. I also check the home’s location to see how far it is from the town’s center; if there are additional fees, such as cleaning or damage deposits; and if the owner has other requirements, such as caring for an animal (particularly important if you’re allergic, will be out for long day—or overnight trips—or don’t want the added responsibility).

If I like what I see, and have additional questions, I reach out to them via the website's messaging system. I introduce myself, and then list my questions. If I’m comfortable with their replies, and would like to move forward, I arrange a Zoom call to speak with them. (If you don’t have a Zoom account, you can create one for free, or use WhatsApp and Skype. They all have video options.)

I particularly like video features, as we can see each other, and I get a better sense of the person I’d be swapping with, and their environment. They can also get a better feel about me, which is equally important, as we both need to feel comfortable.

One caveat: If I like what I see on someone’s profile, and they don’t have reviews, I don’t rule them out. After all, we have to start somewhere.

Case in Point:

I was planning a four-month trip to Belgium, The Netherlands, and the United States. I reached out to a woman in Belgium whose home was available for my travel dates. We exchanged a few emails, and when I felt comfortable, I arranged a video chat. We had a lovely conversation, we felt comfortable and at ease with one another, and we scheduled the swap. We agreed to stay in touch with text messages, via WhatsApp, should either of us have questions during the trip. She had a beautiful home, in a perfect location, and I had a wonderful stay!

A List of Questions:

• Preparing a list of questions before emailing or scheduling a video chat is super helpful. Here are a few examples:
   
  • Is your home smoke-free?
    • Or, if you smoke: Is it okay to smoke on the property? If so, where would you prefer I smoke?
       
  • Is public transportation available?
    • Or, if you plan to have a car: Is parking available in your neighborhood?
       
  • How far is your home from the center?
     
  • If traveling solo: Is it safe to be out at night?
     
  • If you’re planning to stay a few days: Is there a washer and dryer available?
     
  • How will I contact you if I have questions during the stay?
     
  • Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

Use the questions above, and/or add to them or create a list of your own to address your specific concerns. Most importantly, trust your instincts. Get a sense of what your body is telling you. For instance, do you feel a sense of inner peace, contentment, and perhaps excitement about your exchange? Or do you feel tense and uncomfortable? There is no need to rush. Take your time and do what feels right to you.

For additional travel and home swap tips, check out Habiqo Home Swap's Blogs at: Habiqo's Blogs

Happy travels!

Warmly,

Theresa

Bio

Theresa Conti is a Life Coach with more than 30 years’ experience. As a stress management/life balance coach, and seasoned traveler, Theresa supports women in developing the courage, confidence, and resources to travel solo, and create travel plans that inspire and delight them.

Feel free to contact her at Theresa@reconnecting2you.com to schedule a complimentary consultation. You’ll get acquainted, talk about your travel dreams, and explore how she can help you.