Learn the basics of hosting foreign students
Being a host for the first time can be nerve-wracking. Being completely new to the experience can have you feeling a little lost as to what you should or shouldn’t do. Well, do not worry because the Host Family Stay team has prepared a list of useful tips to help you get the best out of your experience and take care of your guest too.
Have A List Of House Rules Ready
Having a basic set of rules ready when your guest arrives can help you define boundaries within your home. Of course, it can be a bit awkward to hand them over as soon as they arrive, but it's a good way of making sure they’re informed on how your household works. Have a look at our blog on the house rules suggestions.
Offer Information On The Local Area
Most guests will be keen to wander around the area and explore. Therefore, make sure you have some information ready for them to make their visit easier. Some things to include are train and bus stop locations and routes, popular attractions, nearby stores, ATM, etc.
Make Your Students Feel At Home
This might sound obvious, but don’t forget to be welcoming! Your guest is very far from home, so make sure you make them feel comfortable and help them out with whatever they may need. No one likes feeling homesick. Consider asking them from time to time how they feel about living in London.
Get to Know Your Guest and Create Connections with their Parents
Getting to know your guest early on will make you feel much more comfortable. Ask them what they do, who they live with back at home, what they love doing, and what’s important in their lives. It’s also a good idea to connect with and keep in touch with their parents - you will get to know someone new and will make your guest feel good and appreciative because you care.
Offer your help
Getting to know your guest will let you understand their needs and concerns. That can be anything like their lack of confidence in speaking English, their shopping or sightseeing plans in London, or even using some facilities at home or outside of the home. Be sure you offer your help! Your guest will thank you for this and tell everyone about it.
Be open to solve any misunderstanding
Your guest is very likely to come from a different country and culture, therefore, sometimes minor issues may seem like a problem for them and vice versa. Be open to monitor how your guest feels and in case of any perceived unease about anything - offer a friendly conversation. Over 90% of misunderstanding can be mitigated in a nice friendly talk. However, our team is always available if you feel you need any help or advice.
We hope this helps you prepare for your guest’s arrival. As always, if you have any questions, drop us a message!
Just remember, it is all about the experiences - both you and your guest have to enjoy the homestay in your home!