For this post, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers regarding homestays. By reading this list and keeping all of its advice in mind, surely your Los Angeles will not only become more smooth and comfortable, but more meaningful as well.
What kind of souvenirs should I bring for my host family?
The answer to this depends on the people in your host family. For kids, things like Pokemon or Pretty Cure picture postcards are great to bring, while for adults traditional Japanese style postcards work really well. Due to potential allergy issues, it might be best to avoid any food or snacks.
Having said all that, souvenirs are not the only way to express your feelings of gratitude, and since America does not have a traditional kind of souvenir culture like Japan does, it actually is perfectly fine not to bring anything. More important than souvenirs would probably be giving a proper thank you gift after your homestay finishes, such as a thank you card or something similar.
Are meals included in the homestay plan?
Yes. Both breakfast and dinner are included. Breakfast is served in a kind of continental style, with food such as yogurt, bagels, and fruits being prepared and available to eat at your convenience between certain times in the morning. For dinner, the host will do the cooking.
I actually prefer a homestay with no meals included….
That’s perfectly fine! We offer those kinds of homestays as well.
I only want to stay with a white family. Can this be arranged?
This is a question that as much as it disturbs us, we find we must answer. Requests such as “I do not want to live with an Asian-American family” are racist and discriminatory, and thus we do not entertain such requests.
Can I do laundry everyday at my homestay?
Most homestays will not allow you to do this. Usually, you are allowed to do laundry once a week. The reason for this is that Los Angeles is currently undergoing a severe water shortage. Therefore, we humbly request that all guests do whatever they can to save water during their homestay.
For a one month stay, what should I bring?
Since laundry is only done once a week, it would be best to bring enough clothes to last about 10 days. It is also a good idea to bring toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, a toothbrush, toothpaste, some napkins, shaving cream, and razors.
I cannot speak any English at all! Is it really okay for me to do a homestay?
It’s totally okay! All hosts are well-experienced in hosting a wide variety of different English level students. Using body language, they will be sure to explain and convey to you what needs to be conveyed as best as they can. While it is always best for your English studies to try to work out everything on your own, should you find yourself having too much trouble communicating you can always contact us for help.
Can I invite friends over to my host family’s house?
While the answer to this really depends on the family, having same-sex friends over during the day might be okay, but allowing them to stay over is not allowed most of the time.
Is it possible to apply for a two month homestay, but after a month decide to extend my stay for one more month?
Yes, this is possible. However, while you are guaranteed to have the homestay for the amount of time you applied for, there is a possibility that your request for extension could be denied if someone else has already applied for that same homestay for the additional month you seek an extension for
I have decided that I want to leave my homestay and go back home. Is it possible to get a refund?
If there is a good reason and you absolutely must go back home, then a refund is possible. For any other reasons, any fees incurred during the thirty days after you have applied for cancellation will not be returned. However, all fees incurred after those thirty days will be refunded.
Do homestays have curfews?
If you are over age 21, most homestays do not have curfews. For those 18 years of age and younger, the curfew is usually 8:00 PM. Since the curfew can differ depending on the host family, it is always best to confirm the curfew with your host family.
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