Holiday Property EXCHANGE

Summer - Dominica

Interested in experiencing Dominica, but looking for a more affordable, unique and fun, self catering experience?

Well Holiday Property Exchange may be just the thing. The concept is very simple. You exchange your home, wherever you live, with the home of someone in Dominica, (normally at the same date and for the same length of time) and both parties get rent free accommodation for the duration of the stay. Contrary to what many think, the swap need not be like for like and the properties exchanged do not need to be similar in size or design. All that matters is that both parties are happy with the arrangements.

It may seem a risky idea to swap your home with someone you have never met but many people have made long and lasting friendships from holiday home swaps not to mention having great holidays. The concept may be particularly attractive to families who are limited to taking holidays when prices are high. As well as the financial aspect, well matched home exchange families can travel light, as toys, games, high chairs etc will be waiting at the new home from home. Also the exchange family is likely to have local knowledge of activities for children.

If you are a “culture vulture” or want a more authentic holiday experience then a home exchange gives the opportunity to get fully immersed into how other people live and an idea of real communities instead of a limited hotel vacation experience It is also a consideration when visiting family overseas and you don’t want to impose on them, you want your own space or where staying with them is not possible.

Another benefit is that your home is not left empty while you are away. Insurance companies warn that your home is at highest risk from break-in when unoccupied.
 
Many people choose a home exchange organisation, usually with an internet presence, to advertise their properties and to find out what exchanges are available. It’s important to do your research as some charge a fee for the service and some only list your property for a limited amount of time.

The success of the exchange relies on mutual trust, respect and ensuring a good relationship is built up through detailed exchanges of information. Swapping photos, videos, details about the area and facilities are essential. Use email, phone, internet searches and even webcams and ask as many questions as you need. The less nasty surprises for either party the happier the experience is likely to be.

It is also worth remembering that your concerns are likely to be the same as the other party. This will be a good motivator for you both to treat each others properties with the same consideration and care and for the property to be left in the same condition as you found it.

Details of two holiday exchange properties in Dominica.

PROPERTY 1 (Pics 1-3)
A magnificent and stylish 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom executive home, with swimming pool, set within over 1 acre of tropical
grounds. Located 20 minutes above the capital, with stunning balcony views across Roseau to the Caribbean Sea.

• 2 bedrooms with A/C.
• Self-contained ground floor guest apartment near the pool.
• Fun loft area for teenagers to “camp”.
• Not suitable for small children.
• House comes with part-time maid and gardener service.
• High-speed internet and broadband telephone service with unlimited calls to the US and Canada.
• Non-Smokers Only.

Available from August 10 to August 28, 2008 for rent or possible non-simultaneous home exchange. Primarily interested in an exchange

for New York (Brooklyn or Manhattan only), but open to exchanges for Guadeloupe, Martinique or Paris as well.
$1000US/week or free for home exchange.

PROPERTY 2 (Pics 4-6)
Large and airy 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, apartment which sleeps up to 8 people. Sea and mountain views from balcony. Conveniently located

5 minutes drive from the Roseau town centre in a leafy suburb, near the hospital. Located on the top floor of a
family house but with own private entrance.

• 2 bedrooms with A/C all with fans. Master with ensuite.
• Fully fitted kitchen, with all main appliances such as microwave, washing machine, etc…
• Access to a children’s playground in the garden.
• Car rental can be arranged.
• Maid service, babysitting and Creole cooking available on request

Would consider home exchange for property in Goodmayes or Tottenham, East London or Bradford On Avon, Wiltshire in August 2008.

$200US/per night or free for home exchange.

For further information on the properties contact dominica@caribbeanhomes-lifestyle.com, T: (767) 613 5070.
For further information on Home Exchanges see:
Home Exchange - www.homeexchange.com
Home Xchange Vacations - www.homexchangevacation.com
International Home Exchange Network - www.ihen.com
HomeLink International - www.homelink.org.uk

Some important tips & GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW:

Be specific about your needs, what you are looking for and describe your home honestly and accurately.
Double check arrival/departure dates by email or by letter and book airline tickets at the same time. Ensure all details are
agreed before flights are booked.
Ensure you have a detailed address, directions and a local contact number. Also a list of other useful or emergency numbers.
During your stay, the owners should be contactable at your home but always check.
Arrange where the keys will be on arrival and where you need them left on departure.
Leave your home clean and in the condition you would expect to find the home you are going to.
Ensure instructions are left for alarms, timers, domestic appliances or any other special features in the home.

Any other items which should not be used should be locked away or clearly specified.
Be specific about which facilities in the home should not be used e.g. the phone or whether your home is non-smoking.
Clarify who will pay household bills such as water, electricity, telephone or additional expenses such as, long distance calls, cleaner or gardener.
Ensure your home insurers have no problem with the arrangement.
If cars are included in the swap ensure you are covered under their insurance and agree who will pay for minor and major damages.
Make sure neighbours are aware someone will be in your home while you are away.
If you rent, get permission from the landlord.

The only other tip is to relax and enjoy your holiday.

Written by Celia Sorhaindo