Who chooses to become a host family?

Economic motivation is not normally the prime objective of host families as very little profit is made from the arrangement. Usually host families state their main reason for offering to open their homes to foreign visitors is to learn about new cultures, to meet people from other countries and enjoy the companionship and new experiences that result from being a host.

Our hosts are all ages and from all walks of life. They include shop assistants, accountants, bus drivers, teleworkers, policemen, civil servants, chefs, tradesmen, teachers, housewives, retired farmers, administrators, economists and engineers.

What are the host family responsibilities?

Staff at IH Valladolid & Santander personally visit all potential host families before putting them on their register. It is our primary concern that students have positive experiences whilst staying abroad, not only in their classes but also where they are living. All our host families live within easy travelling distance of the Academy, many within walking distance and others just a short bus ride away.

Host families are instructed to speak Spanish at all times with students and are obliged not to accommodate other students who speak the same language.

The student is provided with a clean, comfortable room with sheets and towels. If they have chosen full or half board options, the family will prepare the meals requested and arrange to eat at least one meal a day together with students. They will accommodate any special dietary restrictions but we encourage students to adapt to the local cuisine and try local dishes.

The host family will collect the student on the day of their arrival at the local bus or train station. They will also accompany the student to their classes on their first day in order to show them how to get to the Academy.

Want more information about General Intensive Spanish courses with homestay in either Valladolid or Santander with International House? Find out more on our website www.espaname.es