ONLY IN AMERICA is a free home exchange service catering exclusively to the needs of homeowners (and apartment dwellers) in North America: the Continental U.S., Canada, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

"What makes this service unique is its exclusive focus on North American destinations," says Helen Salem, California community college English teacher, who founded OIA. "Someone who wants to visit Maui, Seattle, or San Francisco will find OIA very user-friendly. It offers a simple, clear procedure for becoming a member, listing a home, and finding an exchange."

A feature of interest to short term travelers is the option of weekend and week-long exchanges. For parties looking ahead to a conference, wedding, or graduation miles from home, OIA offers a no-cost alternative to the high prices of even a modest hotel. Exchange partners who own a second home or have access to temporary accommodations need not swap homes on the same dates.

Ms. Salem's own home exchange experience in Europe and her travels in the U.S., Mexico, and the Middle East redirected her avocation into a business. Setting aside time from marking essays, she worked out the details of what is now ONLY IN AMERICA.

To become a member of OIA, fill out the online application form OR e-mail travel@exchangehomesoia.com information about your home. If e-mailing, please include the name of your city & state/province (or country/territory if outside U.S., Canada & Mexico), a brief description of your home, and, if possible, a photo. We will post the information on the site. You may also phone or fax us for an application at (415) 383-8125, or write to OIA, 980 Vernal Ave., Mill Valley, CA 94941.