helper asking if family can visit Hong Kong and stay in her room

Our helper's husband is coming for a few days this summer. We're fine with that.


However that doesn't mean you have to be fine with it. It depends on the helper, on you and on your relationship.

cara, that conversation sound like a copy of ours! Middle East, hasn't seen husband in years, not a "poor me" moment..


While as I said before it's up to the employer's comfort level, it should be considered that these people spend very long periods away from their loved ones.

I know some employers who allow their helper's husband to stay at their house (usually they have a close and trusting relationship with their helper).

if you are not 100% sure, why dont you offer to pay for the boarding house for them - I dont think it is that much? You will buy your peace of mind and they will be happy as you have provided an alternative.

Great idea Idsllvn.

well, thank you! I know I would rather pay than have extra 2-3 people in that tiny room where we already have 2 helpers!! I actually dont think they would physically fit in!

Actually we would offer the guest room. ;)

This is more or less a common requests now. I think the "trend" started when an airline company started offering very low cost airfare.


My aunt and her daughter ( who has a 4 year old girl)works in the same house. Their employer just asked the little girl and the sister to join their moms for a month and had stayed in the guest room.


My co-workers had invited their husbands/wives/kids to come over too, with the approval of our boss and stayed with them in their rooms. It also helps that we (staffs) have a spare room and also a sitting room where we could pull out one of the folding beds when needed. My boyfriend, from the UK also came and stayed with me for 6 weeks last time , and will be coming with us again come autumn for like 3 months. He stays with me, and just get out of my way when it's my working time.


As everyone had said, it is all about your comfort level. If you are not comfy to have her around, say so. That way, they could find alternative place to stay. And as ldsllvn suggested, offer to pay ( or part of) the boarding house.


Alternatively, have a"trial" period. Tell your helper her mom could stay for the first three days and she should stay someplace else for the rest of her holiday. If you feel alright with having the mother around, feel free to extend the hospitality.