My HomeExchange Story: Southampton, United Kingdom

Meet Dana and follow her as she explores Southampton, UK.

How did you find your exchange?

I contacted a member from the HomeExchange community.

What attracted you to this exchange opportunity?

I always wanted to visit more of England so the south seemed the perfect choice. My host's house seemed a typical Victorian villa, the perfect way to get immersed into the English culture. She was also very responsive and communicative so this reassured me that the exchange would go smoothly.

How was your arrival at the home?

My host Vania was extremely helpful from the very beginning, I arrived late and she offered to pick me up from the train station. She showed me the house and did everything she could to make me feel at home. Of course, she also shared some of the experiences she had while exploring the area as she and her family actually moved in Southampton a few years back. Throughout my stay she was a constant adviser during my touristic endeavor.

What did you see or do during your exchange?

I explored the city and its history - Southampton is actually the place where Titanic started its doomed voyage. The city is vey nice, they also have a good art gallery right in the center. One day I took the ferry from the port and went to the Isle of Wight to visit Queen Victoria's favorite house - Osbourne. Another day I took the train and went to Bournemouth at the beach.

What is your favorite memory from the exchange?

My favorite memory of the exchange is meeting my host Vania. She is a very nice and warm person. We keep in touch over Facebook and I plan to come back to her house one day for another exchange. The house in itself has a very nice vibe to it, a small garden and two lovely pets. I felt very welcome and accommodated.

How would you describe home exchange to your family and friends?

It was a very nice exchange, a great opportunity to visit lovely places, and to meet good people.