QC DIY: Be The Ultimate Houseguest (part 1 of 2)

Benjamin Franklin said, “Guests and fish begin to stink in 3 days.” He was right. People, especially house guests, are annoying– they’re loud, messy, demanding and unsightly, with numerous irritating habits (which get worse the longer they’re around). Here are some common sense rules to keep in mind when crashing or couch surfing this summer.
LENGTH OF STAY: Stay no more than 3 days&mdash any longer, and you’ll seem like a shiftless mooch.
COMING AND GOING: Avoid making your hosts guess about your arrival and departure. Fax or e-mail them your flight or train times, and include your cell number just in case&mdash call immediately if you’re delayed.
HAPPY TOGETHER: Bring reading materials or plan independent outings to give your host some alone time. If your host has planned activities for you, be a good sport and try to go along. If you want to do something special (like nude bungee jumping), tell your host in advance so they can help scheduling.
NEATNESS COUNTS: Don’t make any host (even your mother) clean up after you. Place baggage out of the way and avoid scattering belongings all over the house (especially toiletries covered in bloody foam and hair).
Source: Amy Alkon (aka the Advice Goddess), author of a nationally syndicated column.