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SIGHT

What is SIGHT?
How does SIGHT work?
Information for SIGHT hosts
Information For SIGHT Guests

What is SIGHT?

SIGHT stands for:

Service for Information, Guidance and Hospitality to Travellers.

SIGHT is a network of Mensans who want to meet other Mensans. Some travel to do so, others welcome travelling Mensans into their homes.

SIGHT aims to look after hosts and guests, providing each party with the information to enable to be considerate and helpful to each other. Contact with fellow Mensans can be most rewarding.

SIGHT is not an immigration agency, a job-placement agency or a source of long-term or permanent accommodations.

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How does SIGHT Work?

1. The guest writes to the SIGHT coordinator for the area to be visited, giving all pertinent information.
2. The coordinator writes to the host describing the guest and giving arrival and departure times, etc.
3. The host replies to the coordinator stating whether he/she is available or not.
4. The coordinator writes to the guest, giving basic introductory information about the host.
5. The guest writes to or telephones the host to make and confirm arrangements.

If there are time constraints, such as postal delays, the coordinator may write simultaneously to the host and the guest. In such cases, the host's address is not given out, only the telephone number and/or e-mail address.

Knowing a guest is travelling in an area, the coordinator may suggest calling a host just for a visit and supply the host's phone number or e-mail address only without contacting the host first.

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Information For SIGHT Hosts

Most guests seek accommodation, but some (i.e. those on tours) would be very happy just to spend the evening in a local home or to meet local Mensans. You may be a host without offering accommodation. Sometimes guests just want a contact point for information about local conditions, sightseeing, shopping, entertainment, etc. If you have the time and inclination, hosts can also play a "tour guide" role, or coordinate a welcoming dinner with other Mensans in the area.

1. Give the coordinator enough information about yourself, the accommodation you offer, etc., to make it easy to match you with a suitable guest.
2. Make your requirements clear to your guests. If you require payment, this must be agreed between you and your guest in advance.
3. Give the guests information but let them make their own arrangements during the day. This leaves them free to change their minds without having inconvenienced you.
4. Do not let your guests impose on you. It's your house, so you make the rules.
5. Inform the coordinator if you have any problems.
6. Tell the coordinator when you will be away or unavailable for hosting. This will avoid fruitless correspondence.
7. You are never obliged to take a guest, no matter what the circumstances.

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Information For SIGHT Guests

1. Make it easy for hosts and co-ordinators to communicate with you. Ideally use e-mail which does not incur international call charges or postal delays. If you must use postal mail, try to include stamps (from the recipient's country) or international reply coupons with your correspondence.
2. Apply well ahead of your trip to the relevant SIGHT coordinator, including the following information:
   1. Name
   2. Address
   3. Proof of current Mensa membership
   4. Age
   5. Special requirements (allergies, dietary requirements, etc.)
   6. Occupation
   7. Interests
   8. Other persons travelling with you
   9. Whether or not you smoke
   10. Mode of transport
   11. Detailed itinerary, including dates
   12. Any other information you would like if the situation was reversed and someone was coming to stay with you.
3. The coordinator will supply you with a list of one or more suitable hosts. It is up to you to make your own arrangements with them.
4. Inform your host of any change in your travel arrangements as soon as practical. Do not cancel at the last minute unless it is an emergency.
5. Treat your host's home and family with respect and courtesy. Remember, they are putting themselves out to help you.
6. Some hosts may require payment. You must agree on this beforehand. If your host provides accommodation for free, then a gift,or a meal in a nice restaurant, would be an appropriate way of expressing your thanks.
7. Most hosts welcome a guest for a few days only. Do not outstay your welcome.
8. We would much appreciate your becoming a SIGHT host yourself, if possible. Write to your national SIGHT coordinator.
9. The coordinator who made the arrangements for you would very much appreciate feedback on your experiences.
10. As your host is very likely to be busy or working during the day, make your own arrangements.
11. ENJOY YOUR TRIP!

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