Q: We retired last year, and with kids grown up and gone, we’re rattling around in our big, four-bedroom home. We also have a pool and putting green. We’re not ready to sell, and intend to do a lot of world traveling, but don’t want to pay sky-high hotel prices.

We’ve heard about home swapping, and would like to spend time in nice, quiet houses in England, Scotland, France, Italy, Germany etc. What do you think of the idea? Mrs. PFO’R, Atlanta GA

A: There are on-line agencies that offer home swap deals around the world. Get in touch with some, such as Intervac Home Exchange and HomeLink. For a fee they’ll set up contacts and give you info about homes, locations, local features, costs, security and other details.