Tips to be a Good Houseguest When Studying Abroad

Living with a host when studying abroad can be a great experience. You do not have to pay for expensive living accommodations, you have a home away from home and you are able to experience firsthand the daily lives of people from a different culture. However, if you are disrespectful, the trip may be unpleasant. It is important to know how to act as a polite and grateful houseguest.

Clean Up Your Belongings

Tidying up your personal effects and not making a mess might seem obvious, but it is often overlooked. These people are sharing their house with you, so you do not want them to be tripping over your loose clothes and ransacked suitcase.

Help Out Around The House

Be active in your gratitude. Show your hosts how much you appreciate them by helping with the dishes or cooking a dessert.

Bring Your Own Supplies

It is impolite to leave your host’s shampoo or toothpaste supply depleted. Instead, you should always bring what you need. When it comes to groceries, you should buy your own or offer to help pay if the host buys them.

Be Respectful

Communicate with your hosts, but also make sure to give them their personal space from time to time. You want to make sure you are not loud — do not come home at night belligerent or with other guests. While it is a vacation for you, it is business as usual for your host.

Additionally, be mindful of your host’s customs. They may have rules that you do not agree with or are not accustomed to in your country, but you still must obey them.

Give Them A Gift

Either upon your arrival or departure, give your hosts a gift as a symbol of your appreciation. You might consider bringing something from your home country that they do not have in theirs. Do your research in advance to select the right gift.