Home exchange for sabbaticals

If you are an experienced home exchanger you will have learnt that there are many different types of reasons for exchange. Whilst many members are simply looking to fill their regular holiday slot, home exchange agencies such as Green Theme International also attracts a number of exchangers who are planning for sabbaticals or career breaks.

For these members, home exchange is an ideal opportunity to ensure that their home is occupied whilst away for long periods and at the same time secure accomodation of a similar standard in their chosen destination. Accomodation designed for short term rental often lacks those extra facilities which are make longer stays more convenient, such as washing facilities, freezers, transport etc.

Home exchange can also often be a means to engaging with other people in the community more easily - many exchange partners also end up exchanging a network of friends too!

If you are looking to exchange for a sabbatical or career break, look for offers where the member has said they are seeking a long term exchange. You may want to mention the reason for exchange in your offer. And don't forget to check the box in your own administration area saying that you are seeking a long term exchange too. This will help attract members in a similar position.

Rens and Anneke explain why Home Exchange is for them

New GTI Home Exchange members, Rens and Anneke HE18245 explain why home exchange is their kind of family holiday:

















"We are Rens (organic food entrepeneur) and Anneke (teacher). We have three children, Marthe is 7, Tijn, our eldest son, is 5 years, and Jop is 3. Two years ago we changed home with a family in Austria and we liked it very much. Swap homes is more than a vacation, it is very special to live another life in another country."

"We used to go on cycle-tour in several countries, but when Tijn was born we plannend other vacations. Last year the children were old enough to make a cycling tour through Holland in the holidays, Tijn and Marthe were cycling themselves. We liked it very much but it was hard work too. Both cycling and swap homes is a way to get a glimpse of a country and the people living there."

Rens and Anneke offer a "Comfortable family home (build in 1934) in a very pleasant street in Utrecht. Our three floor house has a sunny livingroom, two double bedrooms, two children bedrooms, a city garden. And very nice neighbours. Town-centre 5 minutes by bike, or 12 min. walking. Excellent links to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, 30-40 min. by train. Close to the Veluwe, Betuwe, beach, and lakes."

"Utrecht has a historic centre, good museums, several theatres, cinemas, concerts, festivals, many restaurants and a lot to do for children. And of course we have enough bicycles for you!"