Every Share Helps!

For many of you, volunteering or studying abroad will mean staying with a host family. You should probably know by now that this might be one of the most rewarding facets of your trip—through staying with a host family, you’re able to gain valuable insights into the daily life of the country's culture while also making lifelong friends and connections. Likely, your host family will have plenty of experience with having guests and will be dedicated to helping you accomplish your mission while you’re serving abroad.

So, to return them the favor of their attention, we have a few tips on host family and home-stay etiquette!

Be knowledgeable about local mannerisms:

Before you ever leave the airport, do some research to learn about the typical customs and manners of the region in which you will be staying. It’s likely that your host family will adhere to at least some of these customs—and it is nice to show them that you’ve prepared ahead of time. Learn what is considered polite in the area in which you will be staying—and be prepared to do it! Many countries have specific codes of behavior to be used for elders or people of respect, so be familiar with these customs before you arrive.

Be perceptive to the natural flow of your host family's home:

Every family has a specific set of routines and rules that they follow, and it is your job to ask about this as soon as you arrive. Politely ask questions such as when the family usually eats and goes to bed, and observe how the other family members act. Feel free to ask questions about any unfamiliar routines and realize that your host family is essentially there to help you. Experienced host families will usually be clear about what is expected of you. Remember, as much as you may become like family, you are always a guest and should try hard to be open to the needs and norms of your host family.

Give your host family a firm schedule to avoid misunderstandings:

During your stay abroad, you will probably be a very busy person. Make sure that your host family is aware of your general schedule so that they can expect when you will be home for meal times, etc. You may also want to give them a specific weekly schedule both for safety reasons and so that they will be able to plan to fit you into their own schedule. It is important that you keep in constant contact with your host family.

Persevere through any awkwardness:

It’s highly likely that there will be at least some awkwardness during your stay abroad. After all, you and your family are attempting to bridge cultural and spatial gaps to try and work together, at least for a while. Work hard and don't give up! Cultural differences and homesickness aren't going to resolve themselves if you hide away in your room—rely on your host family as if they were your real family, and your relationship will be an enjoyable part of your trip abroad.

Let your host family know that you are willing and excited to live life just as they do:

Staying with a host family is a perfect time for cultural exchange, and it’s important that you let them know that you’re interested in having the legitimate experience of living in a home in your host country. Many host families worry that their guests will be used to a more luxurious experience than they can offer—let them know that you really would like to live as a member of their family! Engage them by asking about the local history and traditions of the area. A great way to connect with your host family is to cook with them—they will love to try your recipes from home and you will have the benefit of learning how to cook the delicious food you eat every day. Trust me, you'll miss it!

Be attentive to any children who might be around:

Many families host exchange students so that their children or grandchildren will become familiar with different cultures. Indulge this, and make time to interact with any children around you. You can play small, educational games such as teaching them the colors in your native language or showing them pictures of from your normal life at home. If the children happen to be learning English, volunteer yourself as their tutor. Some of my best times in Spain were spent with the children of my host family as we colored together and taught each other Spanish and English respectively. By interaction with the children you are opening their eyes to cultural curiosity and understanding that they will never forget.

Let them know that you've thought about them ahead of time:

Remember—your host family has put a lot into your stay. Thank them for it! Gifts for the host family are best bought ahead of time; it lets them know that you were thinking about them before you ever arrived. Since they undoubtedly prepared for your visit, this is a great way to show them that you were excited about meeting them too. Buying gifts, because local customs vary, can be a little tricky though. A few gifts that are almost always safe include postcards, cookbooks (if they speak English), coffee table books about your hometown, or local handicrafts. If they have kids, you might also want to get something educational such as a puzzle of the United States or maps. Be careful about buying things like alcohol, as drinking is not common in certain parts of the world.

Having a host family is an awesome opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your culture while also making lifelong friends and connections. By the end of your stay, your host family will feel like your family, so do your best to make it the best experience possible.