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
• smile