by Gail Brecher Jaworski
I have hosted travelers several times, but until recently I have not had the opportunity to be a traveler guest. Based on my experience with both roles, I offer the following advice.
To hosts: I would like to say: Please answer every request, even if the answer is no. I have emailed eight hosts and only got answers from two people. If you don't usually use email, please specify how travelers should contact you in your Servas host profile.
To travelers: The purpose of this organization is friendship and exchange. I am not here to be a substitute for a hotel room and restaurant. I am here to share with a person, as in a real face-to-face human being, a different view of the world. If you rush off to your personal tourist attractions, failing to offer to cook. prepare, clean up, then I am not a host but an unpaid servant.