The best way to set the tone for a successful exchange? Start with a thoughtful, personalized message.
Here are some tips to help you write an outstanding first inquiry:
1. Introduce yourself and your fellow travelers
Share a few words about yourself and the people joining you. A short introduction builds trust and helps your host picture who they’d be welcoming.
2. Create a personal connection
Take a moment to read your potential partner’s profile. Do you share common interests — music, travel, children the same age? Mention it! A small personal detail can go a long way.
3. Explain why you want to visit
Let them know what draws you to their area: a family holiday, a special celebration, or simply a place you’ve always dreamed of visiting. This helps align expectations and makes your message more meaningful.
4. Highlight what you love about their home
Compliment something specific — their interior style, the location, or a photo that caught your eye. Hosts appreciate knowing what you value about their space.
5. Clarify the type of exchange
Are you hoping for a reciprocal stay? Can you host at a different time? Or are you offering GuestPoints? Be transparent about your flexibility — the clearer you are, the smoother the planning will be.
6. Be clear about your dates
Let them know your ideal dates or date range, and whether you're flexible. For instance:
“We’re hoping to exchange for a week between July 1 and August 15. Would any dates during that time work for you?”
Also mention if you’re open to a non-simultaneous exchange.
Once you get a positive reply...
It’s time to talk logistics:
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How will the keys be exchanged?
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Are there any special instructions about the home?
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What about linens, arrival time, or neighborhood tips?
A few example messages:
Example 1 – Reciprocal exchange (family)
Hello Julie,
We’re a family of four: Marc, my husband, our 6-year-old twins Sacha and Manon, and myself.
We’d love to stay at your home from March 4–10, if it’s available. We’re drawn to the calm, beautiful living space — it looks perfect for a relaxing family break close to Strasbourg.
We’re passionate about history and jazz, and our kids love animals and drawing (Sacha adores lions; Manon is always sketching).
Would you be open to an exchange with us? If those dates don’t work, we’d be happy to host you another time. :)
Warm regards,
Marc, Julie, Manon & Sacha
Example 2 – Non-reciprocal exchange (couple)
Hello Raphaël and Lucie,
We absolutely fell in love with your stunning apartment in Montpellier — those views are incredible!
We’d like to visit from May 29–31 and offer GuestPoints for our stay. I noticed the dates are available on your calendar. Unfortunately, we can’t host at the moment due to renovation work in our building.
A bit about us: we’re a couple (I’m 26, Jackson is 29), a medical student and a teacher based in Paris. Our schedules are intense, so this short getaway would mean a lot.
We hope to hear from you soon,
Cécile