All AHA programs include lodging, which may mean home-stays, apartments or other student housing. Some programs include one to three meals a day, particularly if the student lives with a host family. Homestays and expectations A very large part of the adventure upon which you are about to embark is your stay with a host family. The relationship you build with your host, positive or negative, can be significant in your overall experience abroad.
Students frequently say that living with their homestay family is the highlight of their trip.
Hosts may be a family, a widow, or a couple. Most take in students to supplement their income. They are experienced in receiving international students and are expected to provide a good environment for students to enjoy and profit by their stay. Though your hosts may be curious about and interested in Americans, it is important to realize that you are a paying guest, and that they are receiving you into their home, in part, as a means of augmenting their income. Their apartment or house may be very different than what you are accustomed to.