Hello, We too have gites and we get many nice people to stay. We also get the occasional 'user'. As our gites are quite upmarket (sorry I don't mean to be snooooty) we do tend to get quite ‘well-to-do’ types. Surprisingly it is these types who are often the problem. Inevitably you will get snobby types in cottages in France.... it is not Ibiza … often these people have not two pennies to rub together and avoiding paying for something is always attractive to them. Onto your points... We are very courteous and accommodating to our guests, often we will pick up from airports etc carry people to local restaurants etc for no charge. We allow enough in our rates to cover the odd phone call and few litres of fuel….. We have both been in the hotel business for years and realise customers do often like the little extras. Unfortunately the guests do start to see these extras as obligations and some mistake our friendliness for 'friendship'. You would not believe the amount of people who are even now, after years still writing to us asking us to visit them in the UK, Canada and so on. Frankly I have nothing in common with these people, I am a normal guy who runs a business. I have had photos of their children sent to me.... one woman from Scotland even sent me poems!!!! Fortunately my wife is trusting!!! As for coming to use the pool….well that has never happened but frankly I would make it very clear to new customers that it is not acceptable by relating to them the story you have written here. Also try putting a sign on the pool saying ‘for use of Existing Guests only’. It is not just because of the guests staying but you will find your insurance may not cover people wondering off the street… so to speak. I am sure that this is a one off and cannot for a second imagine many people would have such audacity…. On your second situation. Basically this is theft.... pure and simple. I suggest you post specific rules for use of telephone. It should only be with you in attendance and charge for it. I know this can be embarrassing but often people taking such liberties are relying on your embarrassment. If you take a bond remove 50 euros from it and inform the thief that when the telephone bill arrives you will deduct what is owed and forward the balance. Cheers D PS Tell you husband to calm down… He will do himself no good getting stressed….
