THE ETIQUETTE OF INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGES

IF YOU ARE A GUEST IN A HOSTFAMILY IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY YOU SHOULD REALISE THAT:

in almost every culture hospitality is very important in social contacts; of course in different countries it may look different
not everyone lives in the same circumstances as you do; some people are richer than you, others are poorer; it is really wonderful that someone wants to have you as a guest
if it is possible, take some small presents for your hostfamily
be a good guest, accept what is offered to you
always accept the rules of the house, also if they are different from the ones that you are familiar with
remember that talking is a way of showing interest; you don’t have to engage into big and serious discussions, but tell your hosts about yourself, your family, your school, your town, your country, your interests, etc.; ask them about their lives

REMEMBER THAT YOUR HOSTS ARE NEITHER YOUR HOTEL SERVICE NOR YOUR TAXIDRIVERS; THEY GO TO WORK AND HAVE THEIR OWN LIVES

integrate with the rhythm of the family life; don’t disturb it
keep your room tidy; make your bed every morning; leave the bathroom and toilet clean
don’t occupy the bathroom for too long (especially in the mornings – not more than 10 minutes)
be quiet in the evenings
if the family didn’t give you the key, be at home at the time that you were supposed to be
you have to ask if you want to go somewhere; if the hostfamily say ‘no’ (which is not very likely), you have to accept it
if you have problems with something, don’t understand something, want or need something – ask in a polite way

YOU REPRESENT YOURSELF BUT ALSO YOUR FAMILY, SCHOOL AND COUNTRY. THEREFORE BEHAVE LIKE AN AMBASSADOR

try to leave only the best impressions
always ask if you can be of any help (washing the dishes, etc.)
if possible, offer yourself as a cook for one meal during your stay – prepare something characteristic from your country’s cuisine
never skip family meals; your hostfamily prepare them for you and they might feel offended if you choose McDonald’s or Burger King instead;
talk with ALL the members of the family; don’t just answer questions they ask you
on the last day thank your hostfamily for their hospitality; flowers or a small goodbye gift is always a nice idea
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