QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Clear answers to the most common questions from first-time members — how credits work, booking stays, costs, and everything you need to join with confidence.


1. Is there a different credit charge for different star ratings?

Yes. Credit charges vary by grading. Once the swap form is submitted, the system calculates and confirms the transaction automatically.

2. Is there a different system for B&Bs and Self-Catering?

No. Credits are earned equally. B&Bs are not expected to provide meals unless agreed separately.

3. What prevents non-members from requesting accommodation?

Members must provide a valid reference number. Admin verification is available if uncertain.

4. Am I obligated to accept a swap?

No. You are always free to decide whether to accept a swap request based on your availability and preferences, although active participation is encouraged to get the most value from the system.

5. Can friends or family use my credits?

Yes, but all bookings must be made by the registered member, who remains fully responsible.

6. Do I need to use all credits at once?

No. Credits can be used over time and at different establishments.

7. Do I have to accept guests for 6 days?

No. You decide how many days you host.

8. Do I have to host the same people I stay with?

No. Credits are banked and used independently — you are free to stay at any participating establishment and host anyone in return.

9. What if I sell my establishment?

You may qualify for Loyalty Membership. Credits are not refunded. Please contact administration before finalising any sale to discuss your options.

10. Can I get more credits?

Yes — you can build your credit balance by hosting other members, referring new members, or through approved top-ups. You earn 5 credits + R500 cash for every successful referral.

11. Can I accumulate credits and use them years later?

Yes. Your credits remain available indefinitely as long as your membership remains fully paid up and active. If membership is cancelled or allowed to lapse, unused credits are forfeited.

12. How many credits should I charge per night?

This varies by star rating:

Up to 3 stars:

0.5 credits per person per night (e.g., 2 people = 1 credit).

4 and 5 stars:

1 credit per person per night (e.g., 2 people = 2 credits).

Entire Cottage / House (Lump Sum):

Take the total commercial nightly rate and divide by 800 (e.g., R2,400 ÷ 800 = 3 credits).

13. How do I track my credit balance?

On the page for choosing an establishment, click on the dropdown button called "Important Usage Links" and choose "My Credit Balance". Please also keep your own records, as our database only stores forms for up to 3 months.

14. How do you prevent fraudulent use of my account?

There are stringent security checks. You will be given a unique reference number and password. The registered person is solely responsible for the security of their login details.

15. What happens if a booking is a "no-show"?

Let us know and we will take disciplinary action against the member. We will still credit your account as though the swap had taken place.

16. Can I charge for services like cleaning?

No. The system is based on a totally cash-free stay. Only breakfasts, other meals, or activities can be negotiated separately for payment — either with additional credits or cash.

17. How much does it cost to join?

Joining consists of a once-off registration fee plus a pro-rata subscription amount for the months remaining until May. Thereafter, only a low annual renewal fee is payable each May. Please see the joining fees table for full details.

18. How do I register?

If you've seen enough and want to participate, go to our Registration page and follow the procedure. Once processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your unique reference/PIN numbers and 6 free credits to start trading immediately.

Still have questions about our accommodation swap or swop and stay network? Contact us directly — we've been helping South African hospitality owners travel smarter since 2003. Whether you call it a swap and stay, an accommodation swop, or a hospitality exchange, we're here to help you make the most of your membership.

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