What should I prepare? What should I take? Frequently Asked Questions.
Homestay, helpful advice
Question
Which facilities at the homestay can I use?
Advice
― Washing machine (depends on the host families) ― Vacuum cleaner (depends on the host families) ―
Tableware ― Bathroom (depends on the host families) ― Refrigerator ― Wi-Fi
Question
What kind of house rules are there?
Advice
Each family has some rules to keep everyone comfortable. Some homes
have some surprising rules, but it is also a cross-cultural
experience. * The house rules for each family are listed on
the search result screen.
・Eating is allowed in your room. (Drinking is OK!) ・Taking shower and using washing machine are not allowed after 22:00.
Question
About meals
Advice
Most host families provide morning and evening meals, as guests tend to have lunch at school or work place. Some families allow the use of the kitchen so preparing a lunch box is a good idea. Guests generally go to restaurants, cafes and school cafeterias.
Question
About gift
Advice
Giving gifts is not necessary but you will be pleased if you take something unique from your country. It will be a topic of conversation, so it might be a good idea to take gift(s) along with you.
Question
What should I talk about?
Advice
Meeting people for the first time could be a nervous experience, It would be helpful to know how to introduce yourself in the local language of your destination.
What do you do for a living?
-Professional: Where did you work?
What kind of job did you choose?
Why did you choose that job?
-Student: What are you studying?
Why did you choose that faculty?
・What are your hobbies
-Host families often ask about your family. It is a good idea to prepare how to describe your family structure in the local language.
Question
Spending time at the homestay.
Advice
Each guest will have their private room for privacy, which is very important. However, if you stay in your room all the time, your chances of interacting with your host family will be limited. It is advisable to spend time in the living room with the host family and have a conversation. Meals and break time are also good opportunities to getting to know the host family.