Next time you go on holiday how much would you like to pay for your accommodation? How does this sound …. nothing?
Easy – arrange a home swap. It works like this: you give up your home for a work or so and move into a smart house or apartment in the sun.
Many people regularly swap houses with like-mind people in other countries, and not only as a way of saving cash. For lots of swappers it’s about getting a taste of real life, not being confined to a hotel room.
A couple of specialist companies allow you to look at 1000s of available homes. If you decide to take the plunge you pay a fee to join the site and can then contact the other members.
We recommend the biggest sites, HomeLink and Intervac. Both offer a guaranteed short cut to holidays in 2011.
Where to go? Anywhere you like but some of the best properties are in South Africa, Australia and California. You might be able to trade a modest home for a comfortable home near a beach. Luxury short breaks are popular with lots of options in the big capitals such as Paris, Berlin and Madrid.
What sort of houses are liked? Well-known tourist spots such as London, the Lake Distrcit and the West Country are always in demand. Don’t worry if your home is modest. The best way is to find somebody that has a lot in common with you – if you are looking for family holidays you probably won’t want to trade with a retired couple.
How do I prepare? Easy: tidy thoroughy, provide clean bedding and towels and write down a guide to the house and the local area.
If, like me you have a second (holiday) home, then I suggest you try http://www.exchangeholidayhomes.com
They only have holiday homes and there’s no charge to join. You get credits if you give up a week and you can use them against any place you want to go if that member agrees to the date you want. They charge £67 when you find your own holiday and they helped me find my holiday without charging any more for the service.