'Everybody is amazed we'd let strangers in'

PARTICIPANTS: The Lynch family from near Kilfenora, Co Clare, first heard about home exchange through a friend. Since 1996, they have participated in seven exchanges to France, Scotland, England and Germany.

"Every experience we have had has been tremendous," Mr Pat Lynch says. The visits have also led to student exchanges between the Lynch children and children of neighbours the family befriended in Germany.

The family makes a point of meeting their exchange partners if possible and has maintained contact with each family they have exchanged with. "The social element is something we really enjoy.

"Everybody is amazed that we'd let complete strangers into our house and I'll admit that the first time we were nervous but the house has been left immaculately clean by every family that has stayed here," Mr Lynch says.

The week before the family leaves can be quite strained, however, as there is a lot of housework to be done.

The family has never had a problem finding an exchange partner. "There is huge interest in the west of Ireland from Europe, especially from the Netherlands, Germany and France," Mr Lynch has found.

The children love swimming so Pat and Mary usually look for somewhere with a pool and leisure facilities nearby.

"We would select a family with children of similar ages so that the parents have a similar outlook to us. It also helps when there are toys in the home, in case we have a rainy day."

As a group of six, the Lynches save a lot of money on accommodation. They wouldn't be having regular holidays in Europe without home exchange, Pat Lynch says, but it's not just the affordability that appeals to the couple.

"We are not sun holiday people; we enjoy a varied holiday with a social element."

The plan for this summer is to spend a few weeks in southern Germany not far from where Padraig (14) will be staying on a student exchange. The arrangements are not finalised and Pat and Mary are in contact with four or five families at this stage.

"We try to spend time developing the relationship before we make a decision and it is always well worth the effort."