Remember, you're a stranger in another land. You're there to learn and participate in the culture, live and survive like a native, and enjoy all that discovering other cultures is about. Don't let yourself be drawn into discussions and arguments about politics or religion. Because you're a foreigner, local people may tend to stare more. Looking, acting and dressing like a foreigner is going to make you stand out more.
Social practices differ greatly, as do customs.
Because this differs from country to country, you may want to do a little research into this. One thing that does not differ much around the world is the definition of family and home. If you'll be participating in a homestay, be prepared. Inflation, hunger, poverty, crime are all universal problems. The concept of family and its individual definition are universal.