How To Be a Good Host

You plan to invite guests to spend the holidays with you in your house, but you're hesitant what to do. Here's how.

Come up with a list of those you want to invite. Choose guests who you'll get along with and who will get along. If you have friends who you find a bit of a democrat, mix them with the republicans, book-lovers with outdoor adventurers, loner and noisy...remember you're inviting them for the holiday fun talks and food and they know that.

Don't forget to send invitations either by mail, phone, email, or in person. The more formal the event, the more notice you should give. If you are planning for a day at the beach, tell them in advance so they can prepare with their swimming gears.

Plan early. If it’s a Christmas dinner party, set your menu. If you want your guests to give you a hand, inform them in advance. It would be fun for all of you when you know exactly what you are doing. If kids or pets are coming, put away breakables. Always choose foods you can make ahead of time, its a lesser stress.

Oh by the way, if you anticipate a noise level that might annoy your neighbors, invite them! Even if they don’t come, it’s harder to complain about a party you were invited to.

We know that drinks gives zest to any occasion, so put them in your list. Make sure your guests will enjoy the drinks you are serving. Planning ahead provides you ample time to think what to prepare, mix and buy. Use alcohol judiciously. A little might be good to loosen up both you and your guests—but break out the club soda well before the brawling begins.

Relax. Once everyone’s in the room, there’s a limit to what you can do. Let the holiday spirit take its course and try to have some fun...After all it's Christmas!

What if you run out of food!!!
Don't worry, again, if you have made preparations, a good list of holiday meals in a hurry is sure waiting for you.

Enjoy, have fun and happy holidays!

Basic Things To Bring on A Holiday Trip

It's the Christmas holiday so you are all geared up for a great deal of packing tips. Perhaps you are all ready, but allow me to remind you of some things that you may have thought not so important, you might realize its the one you'd be in most need of.

Flashlights with extra batteries. Don't forget to turn the batteries back around when using the flashlight.

Diaper bags. If you are travelling with babies, the diaper bag is an excellent place to hide your valuables. It's also a great thing to use as a waste bag, perhaps even when not travelling with a child. This is a big help when you go to places that do not allow you to flush toilet paper.

Separate beachbag. At times there will come instant invitations to the beach. So, include in your packing whatever you might need at the beach into a beachbag inside your backpack or suitcase. Especially if travelling with kids, this will prove a travel timesaver!

Plastic bags. It is always handy to have a few plastic bags around certain items, especially toiletries. Not only does it counter any leaking, plastic bags can be useful to keep dirty clothes in, as garbage bags or even as a makeshift umbrella. Ziplock or other airtight plastic bags are the best.

The first aid kit. What you choose to include in your travel medications kit depends to some extent ... medications as well as small travel first aid kits, especially when traveling with kids.

Whatever Christmas holiday ideas you have, make sure you are at least prepared with the things you need during the travel.

Christmas Tour Vacation for the Family

Traditional Christmas is family gathered together which usually takes place anytime before and after Christmas. Many people travel for various reasons, but primarily is because they want to spend holiday with family and friends.

The Christmas season conjures images of family togetherness, special home-cooked meals, glittering Christmas balls and candles, and colorful presents under the tree. If you are thinking of something different this year, maybe a Christmas tour vacation is perfect.

Children enjoy traveling. Involving them in the planning by asking direct questions about what is important to them and the things they would like most, would give them a great holiday. Don't forget your favorite tradition in your plans so the kids will learn about every new tradition that are appropriate to the area where you are traveling.

Don't forget to make plans for Christmas dinner well in advance. Most tourist destinations offer a traditional Christmas feast, which could be easier for you to incorporate any unique plan you may have. Traveling to the country will get you the foods that are appropriate to the era. It will at the same time be learning for you and the children as you uncover more "traditional" dishes than the ones you were used to. No matter where you travel, don't forget to bring your presents for each and everyone.

Whether it’s a hot or cold festive season tour, don't forget to bring your presents for each and everyone. This may sound magical and is almost unbelievable, but only you can make it all possible for your family.

Have a joyous Christmas travel!