Greenheart Travel

Category: Teach in a Homestay

How to Live Overseas

You’ve spent your entire life in your home country, and as great as it is, you can’t help but wonder what else is out there in the world. In our increasingly globalized society, exploring foreign lands is easier than ever. You don’t have to just take a vacation–you can immerse yourself in a new culture for weeks, months, or even years.

Teach English in a School

Greenheart Travel teacher Lisa Crabbe working with students in Thailand

Native English speakers have an incredible advantage in the world. If you were born in the US, Canada, South Africa, the British Isles or down under, you learned the world’s most important language without even trying. English is the language of global travel, commerce, and education. With mastery of the English language, people in non-English speaking countries get a huge leg up in the work force. That’s where you come in! You don’t have to be a certified teacher back home, and you don’t have to want to be a career teacher. With your native speaking skills and the proper training, you can make a positive impact on the lives of your students, while earning a living and experiencing life in a foreign country. You can teach abroad for 3 months, a semester, a school year, or 15 months!

Teach English in a Homestay

Homestay Teacher Ashley Bornancin (fourth from left) with her whole Italian host family

If you’re not ready to stand in front of a classroom, or you’re looking for an even more immersive experience, teaching in a homestay is a great option. You’ll move in with locals and become a part of their family, learning about their culture, language, and customs. For 15 hours each week, you’ll work with them to improve their English skills, and in exchange, they’ll give you a room in their home and homecooked meals. In your free time, you’ll travel and explore your host country! These programs are shorter-term (1-3 months) and are a great way to try out teaching English!

Volunteer Abroad

Program Manager Megan Arzbaecher at the Sri Lanka Elephant Conservation Project

Teaching not your thing? You still have options to experience a foreign culture and get a taste of life abroad, while contributing to your host community. Whatever cause you’re passionate about, there is a volunteer abroad program for you. Love animals? You could volunteer at a dog rescue project in Thailand, or a bird habitat restoration in France. Interested in community development work? Spend some time working with a community in rural Kenya. Environmentalist? Lend a hand at a sustainable development project in the Peruvian Amazon. All of these programs offer an enriching experience abroad, and will help you develop skills to carry back to your workplace in your home country. You can volunteer for as little as a week or as long as 3 months, and there are year round start dates to suit your schedule.

Work Abroad

Greenheart Travel Alumni enjoying the view in New Zealand

Don’t want to teach but looking for some income to fund your travels? Working abroad in Australia and New Zealand offers young people a chance to experience life in a far-away society, without the language barrier of English teaching destinations. You’ll work for up to a year, usually in tourism or bars and restaurants, and travel this beautiful continent as a local, not a tourist.

It’s a big world, and now’s the time to see it. Contact us to get started on your adventure abroad!

July 5, 2016
Going Back to Your Roots: My Trip to Norway

From the moment I saw a picture of the scenic landscape, I have always wanted to visit Norway. Little did I know, this dream was going to become possible after learning I would be going abroad in Europe for the fall semester of my junior year of college. After my departure, my mom posted a picture on her Instagram of me in Prague during my first week. After my Norwegian relatives saw it, they reached out to my mom. These relatives stayed with my mom and her family when they were growing up as an exchange program during high school and I have always heard stories of the time they spent together when they were younger.

After some planning and booking flights, I found myself on a plane to Stavanger, Norway to meet my Norwegian relatives for the first time. I was so excited to see where my grandpa’s side of the family came from. My eyes remained glued to the airplane window, waiting for those beautiful scenic landscapes to appear, and sure enough, they did. I was already blown away by Norway’s beauty and I learned quickly that Norway is compiled of many different islands. I was eager to get off the plane and finally meet these relatives who were such a big part of my mom’s life growing up.After finally getting off the plane I was greeted by my relative, Olav, with open arms and eagerness to show me around the beautiful Stavanger.

He began to tell me how I came at the perfect time of year, before the winter where it starts to get dark around 4p.m. He explained how many people in Norway struggle with seasonal depression because it gets dark so early. The first stop we made was at the “Sverd I Fjell” statue, a symbol of unity for Norway. Once we arrived at their home, they made me a snack after a long day of traveling. They explained how the shrimp and salmon are customs of Norway because they are fished right here. I then met their two sons, who were around the same age as me. At first we didn’t really know what to talk about but once I started asking about their interests, they began opening up and asking me questions about my life home in America.

The next day we would be traveling to Stord where my mom’s side of the family originated from. We took the fjord about an hour from Stavanger to Stord where Olav’s parents greeted us. They were quiet and spoke less English than Olav did, but they tried their best to communicate with me. On the way to Olav’s parents’ house we stopped alongside the road. I was confused at first but Olav explained this is where my grandpa’s mom used to live. After taking a picture we continued on to the house where his parents were quick to show me pictures of what the house used to look like followed by a diagram of the family tree. I found this really helpful since we’re distant relatives. The diagram definitely help put things in perspective and made me understand the family dynamic a little better. Olav’s parents also showed me pictures of my grandma and grandpa in the places I had just visited, this immediately brought a smile to my face, knowing that my trip here means a lot to not only me, but family too.

After traveling back to Prague for the rest of my semester, I showed my mom pictures of my time in Norway, and having not been to Norway before, my mom said my trip to Norway inspired her to make Norway the next trip on her list. Visiting Norway was an experience that I’ll never forget. Being able to travel to a place where your family came from and that’s so near and dear to my family’s heart is a once and a lifetime opportunity. If you’re planning on traveling abroad, don’t be afraid to ask your parents they know any family near where you’re traveling to!

June 21, 2016
Our Latest Homestay Teachers Share Why They Decided to Teach Abroad

Greenheart Travel’s Teach in a Homestay program attracts people from all walks of life — recent college graduates, gap year students, or retirees — because of it’s flexible schedule, open eligibility requirements and immersive opportunity. Missed out on studying abroad in college? Always dreamed of living with a host family but just never did? The homestay program gives you the chance! It is a great (and relatively inexpensive!) way to experience life as a local for only a couple of months. Greenheart Travel has sent hundreds of people to homestays abroad , and this year is our biggest group of teachers yet. We are so excited to follow along their journeys!

Below are just a few of the reasons why some of our homestay teachers chose to go abroad on this program.

I chose to teach English in Thailand because “Education is very important to me. I am baffled by those who do not wish to understand other cultures and lifestyles. I am simply curious about so many things, that I can’t imagine I will ever stop learning something new. To be able to immerse myself into a new environment and experience new things thrills me and what better way to do that than by living with a host family? There are so many things I could learn from the family, and so many things I could teach them in return. I don’t want to wonder what it would be like to immerse myself in a new culture — I want to live it. I want to learn new things, expand my education, and give back.” Dawn McGowen (age 26), placed in Bangkok, Thailand in summer 2016

I chose to teach English in Spain because “ I genuinely enjoy interacting with people from other cultures. I want to help others learn English while also learning from their culture. I hope that my host family genuinely enjoys the experience and that I can help them practice and hone their English skills.” Harry Jadun (age 22), placed in Malaga, Spain in summer 2016

I chose to teach English in China because “I recognize how powerful public service and my English major has influenced my life, and I hold myself accountable to continue to give to communities and youth groups in need. It is my meticulous passion to give all that I can. As I teach English, I hope to give a new voice for those who find themselves voiceless and without representation due to their lack of experience with the English language. One day I will be proud to live out my mantra by saying I was able to give both money and time to aid people and communities in need.” Afia Yeboah (age 22), placed in Eastern Beijing in Spring 2016

I chose to teach English in Spain because “I really want to experience living in another country and I think the best way to do that is with a host family. I think I will be able to experience more than I would if I was just a typical tourist. I am also thinking about teaching English as a career one day and I believe this program will help me to do that in the future. I plan on going to university in the fall of 2016 and I think this is a good time for me to do something like this.” Isabel Masters (age 18), placed in Madrid, Spain in Summer 2016

I chose to teach English in Argentina because “I am a Spanish teacher and am currently finishing graduate school to get a Master’s degree in Spanish education and a teaching license in Massachusetts. I am going to have a summer free before I start officially teaching Spanish next year, and I really want to spend it in a Spanish speaking country to sharpen up my fluency. I studied abroad in Mendoza, Argentina during college, and I have also spent some time living in Salamanca, Spain. I really want to use this summer to re-immerse myself in the culture of Argentina and to live with an Argentine family, helping them out with their English language skills.” Megan Walsh (age 23), placed in Rosario in Summer 2016

I chose to teach English in Spain because “I recently completed a semester teaching in Thailand. Although my classes were small, I only got to see each class for one hour each week. It was difficult to build rapport and develop a personal connection with students. Partway through the term I started tutoring a 13 year old student twice a week. Her mother was an English teacher at my school. I joined their family for dinners and tutoring and it turned out to be one of my most fulfilling teaching experiences. I felt like part of a family and could notice improvement with my student from one week to the next. I think a homestay teaching situation matches my style more than traditional classroom teaching. I want to learn about a new culture and experience Spain with the support and friendship of a host family.” Lauren de Terra (age 25), not yet placed in Spain but will depart in late Fall 2016

I chose to teach English in France because “My family is French through my mother’s side and we grew up speaking with my grandmother. It is in my blood. I believe that no matter where we are on this earth, we share the same feelings, challenges, joys, and ambitions and the experience to interact daily and hopefully become friends with a host family abroad would be an amazing gift from life. I seek to share my passion for children, cooking and learning with a family. Also, I love to cook and hope to exchange cooking recipes and experiences with a family. ” Kathy Clancy (age 53), not yet placed in France but will be departing in Fall 2016

I chose to teach English in Spain because “I am motivated to participate for the full cultural immersion and chance to build relationships with people from another country. I wanted to experience another culture on a deeper level than a short term vacation. I want to get connected in a community and really soak it in! I also love the mixture of bonding with my host family and independence to explore on my own. This is an awesome program and I am really excited to participate!” Bethany Carlson (age 20), Madrid, Spain (May 2016-July 2016)

I chose to teach English in China because “Leaving high school, the idea of going straight to college didn’t really click with me. I’ve been pretty set on a gap year since my sophomore year, and travelling seemed to go hand in hand with that. I’ve looked at hundreds of other programs, and this looked like the best balance of both self-direction and assistance from the program. I chose China for a couple of reasons. The first one is that I’ve been studying the language for the past four years, and genuinely enjoy it. I have Chinese friends I hang out with and only speak Chinese with, and I am learning something new every day. In addition, the Chinese culture fascinates me: the food, the rich and vast history, I am excited to learn more about it all.” Garen Hudson (age 18), placed in Beijing, China departing in fall 2016

I chose to teach English in Spain because “First and foremost, Spain has always been a dream. I have always wanted to experience the local lifestyle, try authentic dishes, and learn the language. Now, what better way to do just that than to return the favor and offer myself as a learning resource? Of course, I’m going to be excited about exploring the country and all it has to offer, but I’m really looking forward to improve my own skills and abilities, make new friends, and experience new things. Living with a new family and immersing myself into a completely different culture/lifestyle/world is taking a huge step out of my comfort zone. Then, to also teach English while learning Spanish for myself is going to a be a big challenge; however, I can’t imagine it wouldn’t be the most rewarding challenge I ever take on. I firmly believe this program is going to help me find my potential and confidence. And I can’t wait for all the life-long lessons, friendships, and memories that, I’m sure, inevitably come with it.” Sabrina Rodriguez (age 19), placed in Las Rozas, Madrid in summer 2016

What would be your reason for doing a homestay program? Comment to share your thoughts!

Are you ready to start your own homestay adventure? Learn more about any of our destinations in Europe, South America or Asia below.

June 14, 2016
Celebrating Host Moms Around the World on Mother’s Day

In honor of Mother’s Day, we wanted to thank not just the incredible women that have done so much to love, support and encourage all of us in the Greenheart Travel community, but to also highlight the special bond our host moms form with our participants.

While traveling to a new place, the compassion and care from a host mom is invaluable and a few of our alumni share why they appreciated their host mother’s during their time abroad.

Jacob Pence, High School Student in Spain Alum, 2016

My mother is the most cariñosa (loving) person. She is always up early to make my brother and I a delicious breakfast and up late to make sure we get home safe on weekends.

Nia Karriem, Teach English in a Homestay France Alumna, 2016

I appreciate how warm and welcoming my host mom was; she immediately made me feel like a member of the family. She has the most infectious laugh, and has a heart of gold. Some of my favorite memories with her are when we baked breads and pies together, our lazy afternoon watching Bridget Jones’ Diary, and daily “Tea Times,” where the two of us had a chance to get to know each other and eventually form a bond! Best host mom, ever!

Jennifer Sirois, Teach English in Italy Alumna, 2016

With four of her own children to take care of, my host mom always had something going on! But throughout my entire three months in Italy she went above and beyond to make sure I was well taken care of. My stay in Italy was so much better because she truly welcomed me in as one of her own! She even taught me their family tiramisù recipe!! I am excited to go back and visit again one day!

Anna Cutler, High School Student in France Alumna, 2016

Your host mom isn’t your real mom, but she treats you like one of her own and having a host mom like that makes the whole experience more personal and delightful.

Julie Kypta, Teach English in a Homestay France Alumna, 2015

Nadege, the host mom in my wonderful French family is the best! So welcoming that I felt like family right away. She’s a truly unique person, generous, brave, humorous, a fabulous cook, and, of course, a wonderful mom!! Happy Mothers Day Nadege!!

Angelica Green, Teach English in a Homestay Spain Alumna, 2015

While living in the Basque Country on the program, I was lucky enough to have many great women who supported me and always made me welcome. However my ‘host mums’ who I lived with, Katrin and Maia, really became family. They both shared stories from their lives and culture, which deepened my understanding of the importance of family and being their for each other. We had so many great chats, laughs and hikes through the green, fresh mountains. Katrin and Maia are so generous, hard working and always there to help!

Johadane Pierre, Teach English in a Homestay Brazil Alumna, 2015

My host mother Marta was so eager to learn. She loves having a good time and I loved our little outings. We really had a cultural exchange especially when it came to food. She was always cooking and sharing delicious food with me!

Varisa Lertburapa, Costa Rica Volunteer Abroad Alumna, 2015

My program would definitely not be what it was if it weren’t for my host mom Kely and her mother, Doña Esther. These women have so much love and positive energy emanating from both of them that you can’t help but to feel like you are right at home. Even though I was only there for a mere week, the care and attentiveness that they showed has brought me a lifetime of gratitude. Kely and I formed a wonderful relationship over the exchange of conversation in both English and Spanish. As for Doña Esther, she definitely was like my own dear grandma. Like my own grandma, she fed me until I was completely stuffed! I must say, my lunches were definitely the best! Fresh squeezed fruit juices and delicious authentic Tico meals… I was in heaven! My fondest memory I have about Kely is when she found my fellow Greenheart volunteers roaming around at the local market after volunteer hours and got them to come over for an impromptu pizza party! I never felt so lucky to be in the presence of a beautiful and loving family.

Alexa Ball, Teach in Italy Alumna, 2016

Anna was everything and more than I could have hoped for in a host mom! From the beginning she was consistently supportive and instantly made me feel at home and included in her family. Anna is so incredibly giving and constantly doing things for others. She’s a hardworking and accomplished woman who I greatly look up to and am so thankful to be able to call her a friend. Anna was the best Italian host mom complete with the best tiramisu recipe around!

Tara Henry-Miltenberger, Teach in Italy Alumna, 2016

Lara Ferrari. She is more of my sister than a mother to me. She is my Italian counterpart and one of the strongest women I know. I’m so lucky to have spent 3 months learning and living with her family. She is a pioneer and always looking to be better for her students and her family. She is an amazing teacher, full of love and light.

Did you have an awesome host mom from a program abroad? Share below!

May 8, 2016
Organizing your Lesson Plans for the Teach English in a Homestay Program
A large part of why families participate in the Teach English in a Homestay program is not only to learn about a different culture, but also to learn a different language! Now, I hope no one gets intimidated when they read “15 hours worth of lessons every week.” The first thing that I thought was “what in the world am I going to teach someone else about English?!”

Figuring out the Details Upon Arrival

After arriving I was warmly welcomed by Julia, my adviser who will be helping me along with this program during my stay in Italy. First, she had explained to me that I would get some time to settle down and meet the family before having to worry about any lessons which was wonderful! I spent a whole weekend getting to know the traditions and general schedule of the family. That next Monday, Julia had come back to sit down and go over the overall program. This was wonderful because it answered many questions that sometimes you do not think of until they happen.

For example: What time the family eats their meals or what time does everyone generally wake up.

This got out of the way many questions like when can I shower, when should I be home for dinners with the family, and what time do the girls go to and come home from school. After figuring out all of these details, we moved onto talking about the lessons.

At first, I could see how many people might be shocked thinking, how am I going to all the sudden become an English teacher!? So, I figured that I could give some helpful tips on what I did to teach the family English and as well still set aside enough time to see the city!

Helpful Tips on Teaching English to a Family

First, it was important to understand where each family member was in their level of English and what their goals are.
- The mother, for instance, was very good with her business knowledge and was looking to learn more about the understanding of movies and lyrics because that is where she found herself most caught up.
- The two daughters wanted to work on speaking and some writing as well.
- The father wanted to overall improve his skills, but used to be enrolled in English courses so had good knowledge of the language.
- After you understand what level everyone is at, you can start to build your lessons and decide how much time is needed with every member.
Two things that come in handy here are a daily planner and the internet.
- It was important to sit down with every member of the family and see when they would be available for their lessons.
- I had each of the girls do two lessons a week and the mother and I had more lessons since she had a very available schedule.
- Since the father was always very busy, I designated one dinner a week would be strictly spoken in English.
- This way, everyone could practice their skills, and I would be there to help them if they struggled over any words.
- With this schedule detailed in my planner, I then had the time to write down all the sites that I wanted to see and what I wanted to accomplish while here in Italy!
Making Time for Lesson Planning and Teaching

Although it may seem like a lot of lessons, I had every Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday free and only had afternoon lessons on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday which left me MORE than enough time to get everything done that I had hoped! Now after you schedule when you will teach, you need to plan out what you will teach. I only had to take one night to set aside this information for our lessons, and it shouldn’t take you any longer than that!

This is when the internet came into great use, taking the family’s interests and mending them into a lesson.
- One daughter wants to be a movie director, so I looked up and created crossword puzzles, sentence scrambles, and guessing games that all dealt with words that related to this area.
- As well, for both of the girls I made a little board game. The different boxes consisted of questions to answers, tasks to do, or sentences to write.
- Things like these are interactive ways that the girls can improve their English skills
Overall, Keep it Simple and Fun!

I do not have a degree in teaching or anything of the sort, but helping someone improve their skills can be as simple as watching a movie together! So don’t worry about the lessons, you can use your everyday knowledge, and put that into a plan to help the family. I think that overall the best part of being here for the family is that I’m always around to help them. Even if we aren’t sitting down for a lesson, just being around has helped them pick up many more words and phrases during this time.

Language Exchange is about Giving and Gaining

I think that this language exchange truly fits me well because not only am I helping a family and building my resume for the future, but I am also learning so much! I have picked up many Italian words, and now can even answer some questions when asked to me in Italian! It is crazy how much 2 weeks of living in another country can do!

I think that this is a great opportunity for many people and not to mention the price is unbeatable! As well, with only being here 2 weeks, I have had many offers to stay with other families if I decide to come back to Italy. I have even been offered summer positions working at English camps! It’s incredible how much this program has given to me!

My pictures show that I still have been able to get so much done in my free time; traveling to Liguria, two different castles, an orchestra, and many museums in just this past week! It makes me feel great that I am able to help this family improve their English skills, it is the least that I can do for all that they have done for me!

So remember, you don’t have to be a teacher to help someone improve on their language skills. Keep it simple and fun and there is no doubt that it will be a great learning and life experience for you, too.

Check out our various teaching tips posts for loads of games and activities to use when teaching English!
May 30, 2012