Culture, Homestay

Host and Visitor Activities from a Homestay Coordinator’s Perspective

Global Immersions, Inc.

As the homestay coordinator at Global Immersions, my job involves making successful matches between visitors and host families.  I take into consideration the visitor’s interests and try to match them with a host family that shares similar interests.   The goal in doing that is so that the visitors and host families can spend meaningful time together doing things they both enjoy.




At the end of every group program, I always receive the feedback from both visitors and hosts on what they did.  It is always amazing to me that every family provides a unique experience by bringing the students to different places of cultural interest.  In March, we had 3 large groups of Japanese students staying in Global Immersions homestays.  Here are some of the things that hosts did with their visitors:

• Going to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, and watching the street 
        performers there
• Walking part of the Freedom Trail in Boston
• Shopping:  local malls, Prudential Center, supermarkets, errands, 
        specialty shops, etc.
• Playing cards and board games at home
• Making Origami
• Having an American brunch with waffles, pancakes, etc.
• Having an American BBQ with the grill in the backyard
• Having a pizza party
• Athletic activities including rollerblading, laser tag, 
        playing basketball outside, etc.
• Giving the visitors a tour around Boston 


Back in the fall, we had many European visitors from Denmark and Austria.  Here are some of the activities that hosts enjoyed with these visitors:

• Celebrating Halloween (introducing Halloween candy, 
        costumes, visiting Salem, etc.)
• Watching American Football
• Walking through the North End
• Watching presidential debates and American news channels
• Going out for ice cream
• Doing American activities including going bowling and to 
        the movies.
• Dinner with friends and eating out at restaurants

There are many more activities than those listed above that hosts do with their visitors.  With the spring here and summer approaching, the opportunities to spend time outside only increase.  Activities as simple as going to the grocery store or a family gathering are fascinating for international visitors, as they are a valuable insight into American culture.  It is always so great to hear the stories that come across my desk, so please share your stories with Global Immersions!

By Global Immersions, Inc.

Global Immersions, Inc. specializes in Boston Homestay living for individuals and customized Group Homestay Programs. Global Immersions, Inc. distinguishes itself in the industry with its commitment to building cultural awareness and fostering global understanding. We are dedicated to the advancement of living and learning opportunities that provide an in-depth understanding of U.S. culture.