Independent Homestay in Italy (Ages 18+)

A homestay program is a wonderful opportunity to explore the unique culture of Italy. You will be delighted with the Italians, who tend to be very warm and welcoming. The family is central to life in Italy, and you will find large, extended families.

Location
Host family placements can be anywhere in Italy. You may request up to 3 regions of Italy in order of preference, and while we will try our best to accommodate your requests we cannot guarantee them.

Accommodation and Meals
Host families represent all walks of life, just like families from your home country. Your family may be a couple with or without children, a single parent, or a single person interested in other cultures. We will work together with partner offices in Italy to find the best match for you according to your unique profile and interests. Our partner office maintains a network of trained local coordinators who select, screen, and monitor host families to help make a placement that is appropriate for you.

Within each family you will experience a different dynamic, but they are all motivated by the idea of making cross-cultural friendships. They will be eager to learn about you and your culture and are excited to teach you about their own. Your host family placement will include full board (3 meals per day).

Activities and Sightseeing
Typical family activities might include visiting relatives, going to the movies, and enjoying meals together. Families do not expect for you to be just a boarder, but rather a friend and a part of their family. While the main focus of the program will be getting to know your host family and spending time with them, you will have the chance to see local attractions as well. Exploring the community in which you live can be a great way to further your knowledge of the local culture and language. However, you should feel comfortable traveling on your own, as host families are not required or expected to be tour guides.

Local Support
Homestay participants will have a local coordinator available to them throughout their stay to help with any difficulties or questions. He or she is trained to work with exchange participants and is there to help you make the most of your experience.

Travel Arrangements
All travel arrangements must be booked according to our instructions. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you figure out the best way to get to your host community. Some placements are within a reasonable driving distance from the central airport, making it easy to hop in a cab that will take you to your new home. In most cases you will need to take a train or public bus to your host community. Greenheart Travel can arrange for a representative to meet you at the airport and make sure you get on the correct train or bus. However, you should be prepared to make some transfers independently.

Dates
The homestay program in Italy is a 1-4 week program, and participants may set their own start and end dates throughout the year.

Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Basic Italian is required in order to communicate with your host family. Although many families may know some English, it should not be expected.