The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL: June fourteenth, trading places when going places.

Dreaming of a vacation chalet someplace exotic? Planning a temporary business relocation? Here's one way to avoid a huge hotel bill. Trade homes with someone who lives where you're going.

Home exchanges offer a number of very real advantages. In addition to eliminating hotel costs, having a house at your disposal provides more room and many of the comforts of, well, home. In some cases, that may even include a car, country club privileges, even baby-sitters. Although exchanging homes is a more common practice in Europe, Americans are also arranging successful swaps. Here are thoughts on starting the process.

If you don't have a likely candidate in mind, contact one of the organizations that specialize in bringing home owners together. Several clearing houses publish printed directories and maintain on-line listings of those with homes to exchange or rent. For an annual fee, you get access to the directory and the right to list your home. Listings generally include a description of the property, dates it's available and amenities it offers.

Other than general guidelines, the rest is usually left up to the individuals involved. Most often, that means contacting by e-mail, phone or letter desirable prospects in those places you want to visit and then waiting to see who responds. Home swapping can be a hit or miss process, so start early, be patient and flexible and keep trying. Of course, swapping is easier if your home is some place nice, but even if it isn't, persistence can pay some excellent travel rewards.

FMI For more information call:

Homelink - 800-638-3841 or www.homelink.org

Intervac USA 800- 756-4663 or www.intervacus.com

Trading Homes International 800-877- 8723 or www.trading-homes.com

International Home Exchange Network - 386-238-3633 or www.ihen.com

Hideaways International 1-800-843-4433 or www.hideaways.com

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