Live Your Own Version of ‘The Holiday’ by House Swapping with a Stranger—Here’s How

If you’ve ever watched The Holiday and fantasized about swapping homes for a cozy English cottage or a glamorous L.A. hideaway, HomeExchange makes that storyline surprisingly real. Instead of paying for a hotel, you exchange homes—either simultaneously or on different dates—and enjoy a fully lived-in space that reflects the rhythm of local life. Members create profiles, list their homes, chat with potential exchange partners, and confirm swaps only when it feels right. It’s a system where both sides act as host and guest. But this concept can indeed be a bit nerve wracking the first go-round. So we tapped Clémence Cragan, Head of Growth for North America at HomeExchange, and David Bucci, Head of HomeExchange Collection, to share their essential rules for making a cinematic swap seamless, no matter the time of year.

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Don’t Sell Yourself Short

“Many people feel their place isn’t ‘cool enough’ for a vacation, but that’s exactly why over 250,000 members join HomeExchange: for unique, lived-in, real homes,” says Cragan. Think of it like Iris’s cottage in The Holiday; it’s charming because it’s real, not because it’s overly-staged. The quirks are part of the allure.

Know You’re in Control

The platform works in two ways. Users can either choose to do a direct swap at the same time with each other, or use the points system. If you find a user who doesn’t want to swap, you can offer points, which they can use on another exchange. “Exchanges are never automatic. You can review profiles, message each other, or even chat on video before confirming a stay,” says Cragan. It’s more personal than booking a rental, and that human connection is what gives the experience its charm.

Personalize Your Search

“HomeExchange isn’t ‘click-book-go’ platform. As such tailored messages, flexible dates, and persistence make a big difference,” says Cragan. “Members send about 15 messages on average before landing the right match.” It’s a bit like fate in a rom-com, really. Sometimes the perfect swap isn’t the one you expect, but the one that finds you after a few thoughtful conversations.

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Prep Your Home Appropriately

“You don’t need to stage your home like a hotel,” Cragan states. “A clean space, clear instructions, and honest house rules go a long way.” Think warm, not fancy, like prepping for a friend or family member to visit from out of town. Hospitality doesn’t have to be elaborate to feel cinematic. Some of our favorite homemade turn-down touches for guests are locally produced candies on pillows, carafes for water by the nightstand, face masks and hotel slippers, which can be procured from travels or by ordering in bulk online.

Don’t Stress

“As 99.7% of exchanges are incident-free, and we have guarantees to cover the rare occurrence, this fear disappears with time,” says Cragan. And because other guests are also home swappers, there’s a built in respect that might not occur with other long-term rental sites.

Choose Your Mood

“Think beyond geography. Focus on the lifestyle you want, like countryside fireplaces, sleek city flats, chef’s kitchens, pools, cinema rooms,” says Bucci. It’s your chance to script your own setting: English village vibes, L.A. glam energy, or something entirely your own that has nothing to do with ‘The Holiday.’

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Look for Profiles with Personality

“A great exchange starts with a great match,” Bucci asserts. “Profiles and reviews reveal whether someone values the same comforts and travel style you do.” Just like Iris and Amanda’s accidental connection, finding someone who “gets” your rhythm can completely transform the experience.

Pack Light (But Bring Your Rituals)

“You don’t need much in a fully equipped luxury home. Bring small essentials like cozy slippers, that holiday book you’ve been saving, and the little things that help you settle in,” says Bucci.

Add Thoughtful Touches

“Clear closet space, leave household instructions, and offer local recommendations that reflect how you enjoy your neighborhood,” says Bucci. Think of it as setting the stage for someone else’s holiday montage. A few personal tips can shape their entire experience.

Communicate Early, Clearly, and Generously

“The magic of HomeExchange Collection lies in trust and connection. Share details well in advance, ask questions, and encourage your partner to do the same,” says Bucci. A little communication makes the swap feel less transactional and more like a shared adventure.