11 Jul 2012

Life with your host family

Be prepared to change our frame of mind ...

1. Communication
  • greet people with a handshake
  • when you meet your host family, offer them your hand to shake
  • ask your host family members how you should address them, initially you should address them as Mr and Mrs (plus their family name)
  • tell your host family how to address you too (Chinese names are not easy for them!)
  • talk with them and learn their culture
  • tell them about your life in Hong Kong, your school life, your family, or your hobbies

2. Differences
  • UK families have no maids
  • please try to offer help around the house - e.g. clear the table after a meal
  • keep your room tidy - e.g. make your bed in the morning
  • if you break anything by accident, you must tell your family. Don't hide it!

3. Consideration
  • if you wake up early in the morning, try not to wake up everyone of the house as well
  • if you go to sleep later, avoid making any noise
  • always ask permission

4. Bathroom
  • leave the bathroom clean and tidy

5. Laundry
  • ask your family what you should do with your washing
  • do not expect the clothes back the next day

6. Internet
  • your host family may have a computer
  • you must always ask permission before you use it

7. Food
  • make the most of this opportunity to try everything you are offered
  • British families usually have one main course for dinner or maybe a dessert
  • you will be given sandwiches for lunch
  • if you do not quite like the fillings, let your family know politely
  • if you get hungry between meal times, you should also tell your family

8. Table manners
  • you usually eat with a knife and a fork
  • if you have unwanted food, put it to the side of the plate, BUT not on the table
  • don't spit unwanted food out of your mouth

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