Germany is known for its eventful history and cultural richness. It unites a great variety of landscapes, traditions and mentalities. From the North Sea and the Baltic Sea with its typical Hanseatic culture to the picturesque Bavarian villages and the skiing paradise of the Alps; from the river Rhine with its romantic valleys and its industrial history to the cultural treasures of the Prussian Empire and the home of the German classics such as Goethe, Bach and Luther: a homestay program will give you the opportunity to experience Germany’s culture, history, language and daily life.
Placement and Host Families - Placements are made all over Germany. Most of the host families live in smaller cities or in rural areas, though a few are located in larger cities such as Munich or Berlin. Staying in a small village will give you a unique chance to get deeper insights and a first-hand experience of more traditional German culture.
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. Experiment Germany maintains a network of trained local coordinators who select, screen, and monitor host families and who will help to 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 may include weekend tours by bike or by car to the countryside or nearby cities, visiting museums, preparing typical German pastries, or attending family birthdays and other gatherings. Families do not expect you to be just a guest, but rather a friend and a part of their family. However, you should feel comfortable traveling on your own, as host families are not required or expected to be tour guides. 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.
Local Support - You will be provided with pre-departure orientation materials. You will also have a local coordinator available to you throughout your stay to help with any difficulties or questions.
Travel Arrangements - All travel arrangements must be booked in compliance with the placement and with the Experiment office in Germany. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you with information about local travel to your host community. The host family or the local coordinator will meet you at the nearest train station.
Dates and Application Deadlines - The homestay program in Germany is a 1-4 week program, and you may set your own start and end dates throughout the year.
Requirements - Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Basic German or English is required in order to communicate with your host family. Contact Federation EIL's International office for more information at 1-802-246-1154 or federation@experiment.org
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