Independent Homestay in Poland (Ages 16+)

Poland is a country a little smaller than New Mexico, but with a thousand years of history contributing to the culture of this dynamic and unique country. A homestay program is a wonderful opportunity to experience Polish culture first-hand. With a flexible structure, this program is especially fitting for those who wish to immerse themselves in Polish culture without having every moment planned for them. You will find yourself at home with the welcoming Poles. Polish people place strong value on close ties to friends and family, and generally welcome visitors with warmth and interest.

Locations
Host family placements may occur throughout Poland. While we are unable to guarantee your requests, we will do our best to accommodate them.

Accommodation and Meals
Poland is considered a very hospitable country and it is often very exciting for a small village to have a foreign visitor. You will most likely experience some large gatherings with delicious Polish food, and expect to be greeted with hugs and kisses after a few days with your family.

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 Poland 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, spending time at a local gathering area such as a mall or a neighbor’s house, and enjoying meals together. Many Poles consider going to the theater or a concert as a special occasion and enjoy dressing up for the event – so bring some nice clothes in case you are invited!

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
Greenheart Travel always provides you with a thorough network of support before departure and during their 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 Poland can range from 1-4 weeks, and you may set your own start and end dates throughout the year.

Requirements
Applicants must be at least 16. Basic Polish is required 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.