Houseguests are expected to give a gift to the host(s):

Something along the lines of a good bottle of wine is sufficient for an overnight stay. A longer stay may require something a bit more expensive. Here are some gift ideas:

1. New best-selling book you know will interest the host
2. Hand towels for the powder room or beach towels for sunning
3. Packages of cocktail napkins, perhaps with the host's monogram
4. Desk calendar for the coming year (appropriate in late fall or winter)
5. Bottle of liqueur or cognac you know the host is fond of
6. Sturdy canvas tote bag (preferable without a logo)
7. For a keen cook, two or three unusual kitchen utensils, such as a pasta lifter or egg separator
8. For a golfer, a dozen golf balls
9. Set of nicely packaged herbs and spices or a selection of peppercorns (black, white, red, green)
10. Picture frame, with a picture taken during your visit sent later
11. Candles and  informal candlesticks
12. Houseplant in a permanent, simple-yet-decorative pot