WHAT IS A HOMESTAY?

In broader terms a homestay is a cultural exchange opportunity when a student or visitor stays in the home of a family local to the area where the individual is traveling. It is one of the most unique and authentic experiences a student can have while living abroad. Through this opportunity, students are immersed in the day to day of their host family’s life, thus learning about a new culture first hand.

Homestays have a long history both abroad and here in the USA. Many exchange students live with American families when they come to study at American high schools, and many American students live in homestays during their college study abroad experience. Homestays are also possible in high school during a school year or semester abroad, summer programs, and alternative spring breaks.

Why choose a program with a homestay?

Choosing a program with a homestay can sometimes bring about feelings of nervousness, anxiety, and the unknown. The great news is: all of this goes away quickly. While it may be awkward to spend the first night or two with a new family, by day two or three most feel as though they have been in their homestay for much longer.

“It’s crazy how quickly we were able to settle into our homestays and feel so welcome in the community.” -Sarah H. Homestay participant, Costa Rica.

Immersion

For individuals wanting the true immersion experience in another culture, a homestay is your best option. Living with a family and participating in their daily life brings you closer to the culture because you are living it, not just observing it.  Whether you are looking to learn a new language, learn to cook, learn a skill, or just partake in daily activities, with a properly set up homestay you will have the opportunity to be a part of all of these aspects.

Language Learning

Language Learning is perhaps one of the most exciting opportunities highlighted in a homestay. Different than sitting in class, a homestay provides ample time to practice authentic conversation. Your homestay family will not be handing out grades, but rather will be supportive and patient with your language learning. You converse about real life topics in real time, practicing your language skills every day.

Reciprocity

I love having [her] in my home because I get to hear about all the places she’s been. The U.S., yes, but also all the other places she’s traveled to — and the food, the people, the culture, and stories there. It’s like getting to travel myself.                     -Denise, Host mother of Gap Year

For many traveling abroad is about the experience, most travel on vacation, some for work, and other to volunteer and study. A highlight of traveling is learning about another culture, the history, language, arts, politics, and the environment. One of the most exciting aspects of the homestay experience is that as travelers you have the opportunity to share you own culture, thus providing a cultural exchange opportunity for both you and your host family! Especially in non traditional locations, your host family may not have the opportunity to travel like you do, so often time this can be as exciting and special of an experience for your host family as it is for you!

 Relationship Building

Perhaps the most rewarding take-away of a homestay is the lifelong friendships. Time and time again students leave homestay experiences feeling connected to a new family. Today, now with broader access to social media, host families all over the world are able to keep in touch with their host students long after the experience itself. We have heard from former students who have visited their homestay families years later, and even of some homestay families visiting their host student at their home in the USA. This is the true gem of the experience, lasting meaningful friendships!