What should my expectations be about my homestay experience?
According to our past participants, the homestay is either the best or worst part of the trip. The differences are usually a result of different levels of expectation. Students who have read a lot about the culture, economy and political situation of the country before they visit usually have realistic expectations and love their homestays. Those who are unprepared or have unrealistically high expectations can be disappointed. Remember you are coming from one of the richest countries in the world and few homestays will be equal to the comforts to which you are accustomed. Before choosing a homestay, you should decide exactly what you want. Do you want something different from or similar to the comforts of the U.S? If the program’s homestays do not meet your individual needs, you should probably seek alternative housing (see below).
