Vancouver Language Centre

Homestays in Guadalajara

Experience Mexican culture while studying Spanish, English or TEFL language programs at Vancouver Language Centre! A VLC homestay offers you a unique chance to become immersed in Mexican culture and the Spanish language while you study in Guadalajara.

A few tips:

(1) For an enjoyable homestay experience in Mexico, be prepared to:
-Spend time with your hosts and participate in the daily family routine.
-Adapt to your new lifestyle in Mexico and join in the activities at home.
-Speak the Spanish language whenever possible.

(2) During your stay, be polite and considerate to your homestay family:
-Tell your hosts if you will not be home for meals.
-Call if you will be home late.
-Discuss weekend or vacation plans in advance.
-Ask your hosts before you invite friends to their home.
-Offer to help with preparations if your friends stay for a meal.

(3) You are responsible for the costs of:
-All transportation.
-Personal telephone calls. You should purchase an international telephone card or a cell plan.
-Your hosts are not required to provide transportation or entertainment. If they do invite you out somewhere, offer to contribute towards the cost of the excursion.

(4) Keep your room neat and clean:
-Offer to help with some household chores.
-Make your bed in the morning.
-Wash your own clothes.

(5) Please tell the Homestay Coordinator about:
-Any problems with your homestay. We are here to help you have an enjoyable visit.
-Any medical or insurance issues.

(6) During your stay at Vancouver Language Centre, its staff and your hosts are authorized to arrange for any emergency treatment or hospitalization.

MEALS
You may find the schedule and diet in Mexico very different from what you are used to. Most people in Mexico eat the following three meals each day:

Desayuno-Breakfast: This meal is normally served between 7:00 A.M. and 8:30 A.M. For many families, breakfast is quick and casual. Coffee, cereal, quesadillas, chilaquiles and tamales are often found on Mexican breakfast tables.

Comida-Lunch: Most Mexicans have lunch between 2:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. Lunch is traditionally the big meal of the day. On school days, you may take a "bagged lunch" to school with you. Many students like to prepare their own lunches. If you wish to do this, suggest it to your host parents. They will appreciate your help.

Cena-Dinner: This is usually a light, late meal in Mexico, around 8:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M.
Mexican food is sometimes quite spicy and optional hot sauces made with different chilis are a standard. If you prefer mild food, dislike or are allergic to certain foods, please specify it on your application.

Your hosts want you to enjoy your meals. You should tell your host if you are hungry. If you do not accept something to eat or drink the first time it is offered, they will probably assume you do not want anything. They will not know your preferences unless you tell them. If you feel uncomfortable discussing this with your hosts, mention it to a member of the Vancouver Language Centre staff. We will find a tactful way to bring it to the attention of your host family.

GIFTS
Many host families offer gifts to their guests. You might want to bring some souvenirs from your country for your hosts, too.

HOUSE RULES
You should ask your host family about their specific house rules at the beginning of your visit. You will feel more comfortable.

Remember that you are here to have fun and wonderful experiences!