Thursday, March 28, 2024

5 great reasons to become a host family in Victoria

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Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or have never stepped foot outside your homeland, this is one surefire way to experience the cultures of the world at little to no cost!

Education First (EF) is an international company that connects students around the world with participating host families that provide them with a home during their time in a new country.

When you open your home to international students, not only do you make a significant impact on their lives, but you also give yourself the opportunity to learn more about what’s beyond the borders.

So without much further ado, here are 5 great reasons why you should become a host family in Victoria:

1. Travel the world from the comfort of your home

Yes, the internet is a good way to find out more about other countries without leaving your couch but nothing compares to actually talking to someone who hails from a different part of the world. You can follow international news, travel blogs, and websites, but the best way to learn about other countries and cultures will always be to meet someone from these nations.

Technological advances cannot replace the understanding and bond created between individuals who live together and share personal stories from their upbringing. So when you host an international student, you get the inside scoop on what life is like in Spain, China, Mexico, Nigeria, or wherever they’re from.

2. Become a tourist in your own hometown

(Spirit of 150 Victoria‎/ Facebook)

How long has it been since you’ve explored Victoria – like really gone on a city-wide adventure and checked out all the fascinating destinations in town? For most people who have lived here for years on end, trips to places like Craigdarroch Castle or The Robert Bateman Centre have become a thing of the past.

But for someone who is new to Victoria and eager to see all that the city has to offer, activities like taking a Harbour Taxi or visiting the breakwater are new and exciting affairs. And you, being their host, get to show them around and experience these familiar pleasures all over again!

3. Learn a whole new language

OK, let’s be real here – most of us paid little attention to second languages in high school, and almost all have lived to regret it. So while your student grapples with the nuances of the English language, you’ll have an opportunity to learn their language as well!

Living in an increasingly globalized world means that knowing a second language is more important than it has ever been. Hosting an international student means you’ll basically have your own personal tutor for German, French, Spanish, Mandarin, or any language they know.

4. Make new friends around the world

Whether they live with you for a week, a month, or a year, your international student will start feeling like family sooner than you realize. And before you know it, it’ll be time for them to say goodbye and head back to their home country.

But hey – now you have a new friend in Asia, or Europe, or South America! So if you decide to take a trip to their country, not only will you have a friendly face to show you around, but you’ll also experience the joy of being reunited with an old friend.

5. Develop your own cultural awareness

As human beings, we tend to fear that which we do not understand. And in a world with a million different cultures, customs, languages, cuisines, and lifestyles, it’s easy to let differences get in the way of friendship.

Living with a person from an entirely different culture may help facilitate understanding and minimize stigmas. In short, hosting an international student is guaranteed to break down barriers and help you open your eyes to an entirely new way of perceiving life.

Ready to become a host family, or want more information? Call 250 999 7790, OR click here to find out more!

Don’t forget to follow EF on social media: Facebook/Instagram/Twitter

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