My husband and I were first time house swappers but definitely will do it again.

We exchanged our house in Cambridge England for a house in Brisbane Australia. How lucky we all were and we had the most fantastic time. I was able to meet my sister and brother whom I hadn't seen since 1959, quite emotional.

The neighbours asked us to the regular BBQs and other parties even though there was quite an age difference they enjoyed our company and we still keep in touch with them. The family who had our house thoroughly enjoyed themselves even though it was mid winter and cold although fortunately our house is very warm. It snowed enough to please the children so that was a bonus.
 
In return we had lovely house with pool and the use of their car and indeed they had ours. There were no problems but we left plenty of telephone numbers just in case and our family were there if required. When we got back our house was left immaculate as we had done in Brisbane. When we spoke to the family coming here we had an immediate rapport and knew immediately that they were good people and we had no worries about them having our house. Sometimes you have to put your trust and faith in people as we all did and the whole experience was magic. Roll on the next exchange.

Julie.....Cambridge, England