Your out-of-town guests can often bring along uninvited expenses. But, there are ways to be a good host on an affordable budget.
1. Plan ahead
Plan your guests’ itinerary. Write down activities or places you intend to visit, including the anticipated expenses. This should give you an idea how much money you need to set aside, or if you can afford to be extra generous.
2. Keep it simple
In these times where money is tight, you might need to drop the idea of treating your guests to fancy meals and expensive entertainment. Arrange for activities that don’t cost as much. Explore the Burj Khalifa neighborhood and enjoy the Dubai Fountain for free; or forget the pre-packaged safari, borrow a four-wheel-drive and prepare your own desert adventure.
3. Let your guests explore on their own
There’s no need to go on leave and lose time and income to babysit your guests all the time. Give them some tips on how to explore the city while you’re at work. Taking the bus tour is a great place to start.
4. Use public transport
If your guests are visiting Dubai for the first time, they definitely want to see everything. Rather than chauffeuring them around everywhere, for trips to the malls and other spots accessible by public transport, use the Metro. It will save you fuel.
5. Get discounted rates
Whether you’re taking them out to dinner or on a desert safari, book in advance for a discounted rate. Take advantage of ongoing promotions at hotels and restaurants; use a voucher or a loyalty card to save between 50 and 70 per cent off rack rates.
