How to get along with your host family

Going abroad and living with another family may feel strange at first, especially when everything is new. You are used to certain routines and rules from home, but your host family may have different ideas about how things should be done. But don't worry, after a while almost everyone finds a good way forward that suits both you and your host family.

The best advice is to talk to your host family and find out what is expected of you, preferably as soon as possible. You come from different places, so there may be different ways of doing things. How do they do things in their house? What are the rules and what can you help with? You may have to be home earlier in the evening than you are used to, or you may need to help with cleaning and washing up.

By talking to each other and respecting each other's opinions and ways of thinking, you will soon get along and find a good way forward, even if the rules aren't always the same as the ones you have at home. And don't forget to always say where you're going and tell your host family about your new friends - they'll be happy to meet them!

Every family is different, just like at home. There are those who love sports and there are those who like to spend a lot of time working on their house and garden. There are families that are involved in different types of volunteer work, or they meet with the local church. The family situation can also vary, with or without children, for example. But what they all have in common is that they always take a genuine interest in their students, and soon they will feel like your second family.

So don't be shy, dare to try new things and join the adventure! Your host family will appreciate your participation in various activities and family traditions, but of course you will have time for your own free time activities as well. What you will get back is a unique insight into a new lifestyle and culture, different from your own. Perhaps you'll experience Thanksgiving in the US, afternoon tea in the UK or a great football match in Italy? Each country has its own charm, and we can promise you that you and your host family will make lots of great memories together!

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