If you're like me and don't own a cottage, then you probably get as excited as I do when I'm able to score a lake-house invite — cool dips in the lake, drinks by the campfire and much needed R&R in the great outdoors. To ensure that I get invited back every year, I try to be the perfect cabin guest.
Here are some cottage etiquette tips to keep in mind:
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1. Bring your bedding, towels and toiletries. Most cottages don't necessarily have all the amenities as a full-time home so many common household items may be in short supply.
2. Offer to help out. Bring some food and treats for everyone to enjoy and offer to help cook meals. And make sure to pitch in with the set up and clearing of the table.
3. Bring things to occupy yourself. Your host is also up at the cottage to relax and enjoy themselves so don't expect them to be entertaining you full-time. Bring some reading material with you to enjoy on your own or a board game for everyone to play together.
4. Leave the diva attitude at home. Don't make comments to your host about how amazing it would be if they had a kayak or a second bathroom. Keep these 'helpful suggestions' and ideas to yourself and enjoy what's already there — the most important part being the beautiful outdoor scenery.
5. Bond over bevvies. Bring ingredients to make a pitcher of a punch or cocktail for everyone to enjoy. Get bonus points by acting as bartender and deliver cold drinks down to the dock for your host and fellow guests.
6. Bring a gift. Sometimes it's hard to know what to give your host especially if you've never been to the space before. But I can't think of anyone who couldn't use some extra beach towels or a comfy throw blanket to curl up with.
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