Rules for Visiting

by Jessica Francis Kane

It is a rule of visiting, I think, that the things that make real estate valuable also make an outing pleasant: a water view, elevation, and local attractions, with the water view being perhaps the most popular. A museum or historic village? Not everyone will share your interest. A bike ride? Not everyone will have the energy. A drive or a walk can be nice, if there’s something to see, such as a mountain or waterfall. And it is always a good idea to have a place in mind for a snack. This is why the English have tea, the Germans have the Kuchenstunde (cake hour), and Americans eat too much ice cream. No one needs to eat between three and four o’clock in the afternoon, but it is a pleasure. It is also the best way to extend good cheer until cocktail hour.