My HomeExchange Story: "We were able to lean into the area like locals."

In August 2021, Janelle and her family took a trip to New York City’s West Village, where they would experience their first home exchange for three weeks. She shared her thoughts on this trip, home swapping, and the benefits of HomeExchange with us.

What did you appreciate most about the home you stayed in?

The location (West Village in NYC), the farmers market on Sunday's, the convenience of the West Side Highway, Little Island, the kids’ splash pad, and amazing parks for them to play in.

What did you appreciate most about your exchange partner?

Since it was our first exchange, we were a bit nervous and didn't know what to expect. Our exchange partner made it so easy for us to understand the process and told us both the positives and potential challenges with staying at their place. We were so blown away by the hospitality they extended to us and the way in which they opened their home to us.

What did you see or do during your exchange?

Because we were in New York for three weeks, we were able to lean into the area like locals. We took the advice of our host and ate at some of their favorite restaurants. One night, after a big day at work, we were able to walk to the corner restaurant for amazing margaritas to celebrate the day. For our kids, the highlight was the accessibility to the amazing parks and splash pad, which gave us the opportunity to live a real New York summer.

What is one of your best memories or experiences from a home exchange?

One of our best memories is getting out of the car and walking up the stairs to the apartment that we were about to call home for almost a full month. Spending that much time in NYC felt like a dream come true. The last night, I sat on the rooftop of the building with my husband overlooking the city. We couldn't believe that we had the opportunity to experience life in the West Village alongside our young family.

What would you say to your friends and family who are considering HomeExchange?

I'm always telling friends and family that being open to HomeExchange will give them the opportunity to experience new cities in a way that would not be possible without having an openness to sharing your home with other like-minded individuals.

What tips and tricks would you give to new HomeExchangers?

Keep your profile calendar up to date, be responsive to other people that are reaching out to you, treat their home the way that you would treat your own, and leave a nice gift when you leave!

The HomeExchange community has more than 100,000 in 130 countries and is looking forward to welcoming you. Sign up for the membership and start organizing your next vacation with HomeExchange.