Travellers counting down the days to their first homestay are likely to be experiencing a range of emotions. Excitement and intrigue may be the primary feelings but moving in with another person or family doesn’t come without its worries.
Here, we put your mind at ease by delivering 10 dos and don’ts to live by on your first homestay abroad.
1. Do take a gift
Your homestay host is there to give you an experience of a lifetime, but it doesn’t mean you should turn up empty-handed.
One of the benefits of being a homestay host is being able to access knowledge about other countries and cultures. By taking a gift from your home country you can give them an introduction to your culture and break the ice with your host.
2. Don’t be an outsider
For timid, first-time homestay guests, it can be tempting to hole up in your room and stay out the way completely. Becoming a part of the family, however, can enrich your homestay experience no end. You can make friends for life on your homestay, so get involved.
3. Do get to know your hosts
Get to know your hosts to benefit from their experience, insight and local knowledge. Socialising with your hosts and the wider community is also a great way to put your newfound language skills to the test.
4. Don’t break the house rules
Most homestay hosts have their own house rules and sticking to them is a must. Being respectful of the rules will ensure you’re a great homestay guest throughout your stay. Student Sarah Dougherty reveals her top tips for being a courteous guest during your homestay overseas:
“While it's important to feel like a member of the family and feel at home, it's equally important to remember that you are a guest as well. Keep your room picked up, help with dishes, and ask how to use something if you don't know (it'll help you avoid breaking something!).”
5. Do see this as a learning opportunity
Learning in traditional classroom settings can become a chore. But there’s nothing like learning via a homestay program. As well as learning the language, you can learn so much about the country and its culture. Embrace everything that life throws at you in your new home, the lessons you learn will be invaluable.
6. Do be honest about your needs
The homestay hosts we represent go above and beyond to deliver a personalised experience that each guest loves. Without some input from the guest however, it can be very difficult for hosts to know and cater to their requirements during their stay.
Don’t be shy about making your needs known. Dietary requirements, allergies and preferences regarding pets are just some of the things that should be discussed in those pre-visit chats with your host.
7. Don’t be too pushy or picky
There’s a difference between sharing your needs and preferences and being a full-on diva. Don’t be too pushy or picky. Your guests want you to feel comfortable but aren’t there to wait on you hand and foot.
8. Do dine with your hosts
You’ll be surprised by how much you can learn about your hosts, the area, and the wider country and culture at the dinner table. Most homestay hosts prepare meals for their guests, so take advantage! You may just find a new favourite food. Dinner is also the perfect time to practice your new language.
9. Don’t be afraid to say you don’t like the food
We understand people have different tastes. Being in another country will really reveal just how different your tastes and preferences are, especially when it comes to food. If you really don’t like the food, don’t be afraid to tell your hosts.
10. Do enjoy every moment!
The homestay is becoming the best way to see the world. Great value for money, high-quality accommodation and an even better experience, the homestay provides more than a home away from home whilst holidaying. You can also hone your language skills, learning a second, third or even fourth language from a native speaker and in an environment that’s completely immersive.
Many homestay guests make lifelong connections with the hosts and homestay host families who welcome them. The ultimate guides, these hosts have lived in the country and can provide vital insights into local traditions, customs, attractions and events. With this information, you can go off the beaten track and experience so much more.
Become one step closer to finding your first homestay abroad by joining Lingoo today. We connect you with hosts who care.
