Living with a host family can be awesome. You’ll get to know Canadian culture, not just as a visitor, but as part of a family.

Here are some tips to have the best experience possible:

Language: This will probably be your biggest challenge. A sense of humour, an open mind, and some patience will help things go smoothly.

Culture: Learn about Canadian culture before you arrive. Once you arrive, pay attention to your homestay’s routines and behaviours, so that you understand what is normal and expected.

Independence: If you’re an adult, it may be hard to give up some independence with a host family. If you communicate well, your host family will understand that you need time to yourself.

Be thankful: Show appreciation regularly to your host family. A simple, heart-felt “thank you” goes a long way.

Your time in Canada is limited, so be willing to let go of old habits, and embrace a new culture and a new way of living.

Canadian laws: Just like your home country, Canada has laws that you need to follow. Canadian laws may be really different from your own and it’s very important to know what’s legal and what’s not. Thankfully, it is mandatory at CLLC to attend a class during the first week to learn about Canadian law and culture.