Living with a host family offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience a new culture and to practice a new language, but it can also seem daunting. Living in a new country comes with navigating new spaces, unfamiliar languages, and different cultural expectations, and living with a host family can amplify all of these challenges.
But many students eventually consider their homestay to be among the best parts of their study abroad experience and leave with lasting connections from this one-of-a-kind experience. For those preparing for a homestay, here are some tips to make the experience positive and memorable.
Watch and Learn
Cultural norms are often subtle and unspoken, and they can vary from family to family. It is a great idea to research your country’s cultural expectations before you leave, but also acknowledge that it’s impossible to anticipate everything.
One thing that caught me off guard while I was in Spain was the difference in restaurant culture: tapas bars, or pintxo bars in the Basque region, operate very differently from typical American restaurants and can feel confusing and chaotic at times. Observation is a great way to navigate these cultural challenges.
In a restaurant, notice how others are ordering and paying. In your homestay, observe how your family behaves with each other and in public. What are their table manners like? How do they clean and organize their home? And what volume of conversation do they employ in different spaces?
Mimicking these behaviors can go a long way toward maintaining respectful, appropriate behavior wherever you are.
Speak!
If you are studying abroad for language immersion, use the language as much as possible. I chose to study abroad in Spain largely to practice my language skills, but I had only ever practiced the language in the classroom.
While I initially found it exhausting and sometimes embarrassing to speak in Spanish all day, my host mom was understanding of my skill level and eager to help me practice and improve. Speaking in context is truly the best way to learn, and my Spanish improved and became more comfortable to use over the course of my trip.
To really take advantage of this fantastic learning opportunity, try to avoid defaulting to the use of translator apps. Put in the effort to speak your second language at home, even if your host speaks English. Using the local language shows respect for the local people, and you may never have another opportunity to practice this language with this intensity, so use it well!
Be Respectful
The second component of speaking is subject matter, and sensitive conversations are bound to arise. Whether these are conversations about contentious political realities, family troubles, grief, or any other sensitive topic, be prepared to respond respectfully and appropriately.
Sadly, my host mother’s spouse had passed away, but she sometimes shared her memories of him in relation to different places and experiences. We also regularly discussed the differences between the American and Spanish political structures.
In situations like these, it is important to respond sincerely and empathetically, being mindful of people’s different experiences and perspectives.
Get Out and Explore
Try to stay present in the moment and embrace what is around you. If your host family invites you to participate in an activity, say yes! Some of my best memories from my time studying abroad were impromptu day trips suggested by my host mom.
One day, we visited a cultural festival in a nearby mountain town where I got to try the local cheese and sausage, see the traditional song and dance, and watch the cows descend the mountain. I learned a lot about both Spain and my host mom that day, and it was an experience I never would have had on my own.
If your host family is otherwise occupied, try to get out of the house. Just as your own parents gripe about you spending all day in the house or on your phone, host parents can feel the same way! Avoid spending too much time in your room during the day, and limit your screen time when you’re around your host family.
Show Gratitude
Remember, your host family are real people, not a hotel. They have chosen to welcome you into their home, so make sure to show appreciation for their efforts to make you happy and comfortable. It is a great idea to bring a memento from your hometown or university, and I highly recommend parting with at least a thank-you note, as well.
Additionally, remember that gratitude goes hand-in-hand with humility. Offer to help out around the house and avoid feeling entitled to your usual habits. For instance, in some countries, water and electricity pose a much greater cost burden, so families may ask you to restrict your shower time or be mindful of your lighting use. Be respectful and follow these guidelines.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Finally, remember that your host family is your greatest resource. Whether you’re looking for a place to eat, planning day trips, or trying to figure out the local transportation system, your family is an excellent place to start.
On the very first day of my stay, my host mom showed me a shortcut to get from the apartment to the city center, and I used it every day of my stay afterward. Google Maps had recommended a far less convenient route. Cantabria has many hills, and that little navigation detail was a lifesaver for both time and my legs!
If you are confused or uncomfortable about some aspect of your homestay, a conversation is also the best way to start. Start by having a calm and respectful conversation with your family about any issues, then reach out to your program leader, if necessary.
Living in a homestay was one of my favorite parts about studying abroad, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Keeping these simple things in mind can help you make the most of your experience. Have fun abroad!
This blog was contributed by Genevieve Furlong, Peer Mentor for Spring 2026. Genevieve is an economics and international relations student participating in the Peer Mentors Program. She studied abroad as part of the Language & Culture program in Santander, Spain, in Summer 2025.
