Host families on international trips: How to find the perfect hosts and what are the benefits of this type of travel?
What is a typical host family like?
A host family is a family that offers accommodation to participants in language programs, camps, or courses abroad. Typically, it is a family with experience in hosting guests from other countries and is ready to introduce them to their everyday life. A typical host family consists of members who are open, hospitable, and eager to share their culture.
In host families in countries like the United Kingdom, Spain, or Ireland, participants have the chance to engage with the language daily in a natural context – conversing with family members during meals, participating in home activities like shopping, cooking, or walking. In many cases, host families have children of a similar age to the participants, which fosters friendships and easier integration.
What’s better to choose? A host family or a dormitory?
The choice between staying with a host family or in a dormitory depends on the preferences and expectations of the participant.
Staying with a host family offers an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and community. Children and teenagers can practice a foreign language every day in a natural context while learning about the traditions, customs, and daily life of their hosts. It’s also an opportunity for close contact with family members and more personal experiences.
On the other hand, staying in a dormitory provides more privacy and is preferred by those who value independence. However, dormitories may be more expensive, and in many countries, access to dorms is limited for children and teenagers under 18. Instead, specialized language courses are often offered in university campuses, where full supervision, protection, and monitoring are ensured.
For younger participants (under 18), staying on campus is definitely the better option, as it offers a safe environment, support from counselors, and professional care. The GoFunLo platform is the largest database for children's camps and language programs. Here, you can find both host family offers and dormitory accommodations. You can easily compare hundreds of offers and find one that meets your expectations.
Interesting offers with host families from ATJ Lingwista:
Language Camp in Brighton, UK
For younger participants who want to improve their language skills and spend time with an English family, this offer is perfect. Camp participants will have the opportunity to communicate in English daily in a natural environment, significantly speeding up their language learning.
International Spanish Language Camp in Malaga, Spain
If you dream of learning Spanish and experiencing Spanish culture, this offer is for you. With accommodation in a Spanish family, participants have the chance to not only learn the language but also experience the everyday life, traditions, and customs of the Spanish.
International Camp in Dublin, Ireland
The option to stay with an Irish family offered here allows full immersion in the English language and Irish culture. Participants will not only have the opportunity to communicate in the language daily but will also have the chance to explore Irish hospitality.
So, what to choose?
Host families on foreign trips are an excellent option for those who want not only to improve their language skills but also to learn about the authentic culture and daily life of residents in the host country. The choice between a family or a dormitory depends on what you expect from your trip – if you want close contact with the local community and daily language practice, a host family will be the best choice. If you prefer more independence and an international environment, a dormitory may be more suitable. In any case, it’s important to choose the option that best suits your expectations so that your trip is both educational and full of unforgettable experiences.
