Picking the perfect host family is a priority for homestay guests travelling to new countries. As a homestay host, family, or teacher, you’ll also have your own list of desirable traits, things you look for in the perfect guest.
At Lingoo, we take the hard work out of providing a safe experience for all the hosts and guests we represent, thanks to our stringent verification checks. You can also ask your homestay guests any questions you like before their arrival to ensure they are the ideal addition to your home.
Asking the right questions will ensure you get to know guests before they arrive at your door. They will help to consolidate the information you have and make your homestay experience as unique and enjoyable as possible. Discover the top questions you should ask when chatting to homestay guests before their arrival.
How and when will your guests be travelling to you?
Ensure you nail down the finest logistical details regarding each and every guest’s stay in advance. Although your homestay guests will be made aware of any restrictions about how long they can stay for, it’s well worth double-checking their arrival details.
You can also go the extra mile by collecting your guests from the airport if this is something they require. Little touches like this will make all the difference to the experience your guests receive. Make a great first impression and get five-star reviews from your guests.
Are your homestay guests travelling to learn or for leisure?
Your homestay guests may be travelling to learn a new language or experience a new culture, and this will influence the experience you should offer as a homestay host. Your potential guests are certain to be from all walks of life. As a result, they will be travelling for a variety of reasons. Establishing this “why” before they arrive will ensure you can tailor your setting to their exact requirements.
Guests travelling to learn a new language will appreciate the homebased language lessons you can offer, or a well-researched recommendation of a local language school, or club.
At the other end of the spectrum, those just out to travel to a new country and experience a new culture in style will love any insider tips you have regarding what to do and see. Becoming a homestay host is a great way to rediscover what you love about the place in which you live. Researching your own city is recommended in the run up to welcoming your own homestay guests, as Lifehacker details:
“You live in your city. Unless you're a New Yorker who's never lost your love of the wonders of The Big Apple, there is a good chance you've been on auto-pilot for awhile. Hosting guests is a great way to rediscover your city through the eyes of a traveler instead of the eyes of somebody just trying to make it work on time every morning.”
Do they have any special dietary requirements or preferences?
One of the greatest differences between you and your homestay guests is likely to be the food you enjoy eating. As part of the homestay experience, many hosts will provide meals to their guests. Guests from different cultures will have different food requirements and even special dietary needs.
Avoid a last minute, pre-meal dash to the supermarket by getting all the information regarding their requirements and preferences before their arrival. Here are some great tips on catering to the dietary requirements of today.
Learn more about becoming a homestay host.
