Independent Homestay in Ecuador (Ages 18+)

Ecuador is named for the Equator, where it is located. A small country, only about the size of Nevada, Ecuador is incredibly diverse in landscape and climate. The Galapagos Islands, located 600 miles off the coast in the Pacific, are legendary both for their natural beauty and unique wildlife and as the site where Charles Darwin developed his famous theories of evolution.

The homestay program is a great opportunity for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Ecuadorian culture. Given the flexible structure of the program, participants are not only able to practice Spanish and partake in daily activities with their host family but are also able to explore the community independently.

Location
Host family placements may occur throughout Ecuador. While we are unable to guarantee your requests, we will do our best to accommodate 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. Greenheart Travel works together with partner offices in Ecuador 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.

Ecuadorian families tend to be warm and welcoming. 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) with the host family.

Activities and Sightseeing
Since every family is different, each family will have many unique interests. Typical family activities might include going to the park or local shopping center, visiting relatives and sharing meals together. 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
Greenheart Travel always provides you with a thorough network of support before departure and during your time abroad. You will be provided with pre-departure orientation materials that will walk you through every step of your program. You will also have a local coordinator available to you throughout your 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 Greenheart Travel 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 local coordinator 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 Ecuador runs 1-4 weeks in length and you may set you own start and end dates throughout the year. Please note that during the December holiday season placements are more difficult to make. If you are interested in going at this time, please contact Greenheart Travel well in advance of your intended departure.

Requirements
Applicants must be 18+ years of age. Basic Spanish is necessary in order to communicate with your host family.

Program Costs 

Included	Not Included
Lodging	Airfare
Full Board (3 meals/day)	In country transportation
Medical/Accident Insurance	Phone cards/internet
Local Coordinator	Sightseeing activities
24 Emergency Staff	Souvenirs
Pre-departure Orientation

Fees may be paid by personal check, money order or credit card.