Learn about hosting exchange students in Dublin
Can I Become a Host Family? What you Need (and Do not Need) to Get Started
Thinking about opening your home to an international student?
You do not need a mansion, a perfect family, or a flawless grasp of teenage slang—just a spare room and a warm, welcoming attitude.
In this post, we break down exactly what it takes to become a host family in Ireland (hint: probably less than you think), and how to get started with confidence.
When Things Go Wrong: A Guide for Host Families
Hosting students is rewarding—but not every moment is picture perfect.
Maybe a student is homesick. Maybe a house rule gets ignored. Maybe a cup gets spilled (literally or figuratively). Whatever the case, you are not alone—and you do not need to figure it all out by yourself.
In this detailed and reassuring post, we share real tips and calm advice for when hosting takes an unexpected turn.
Safety, smoke alarms and sanity: A host family’s guide to doing it right
Here, we cover the key legal and safety points for host families—with a dash of humour and zero legal jargon. From curfews to kettles, we have got you covered.
Welcoming your Students: Creating a Great First Impression
🌼 The first few moments matter.
When your international student arrives, small details—a smile, a quiet room, a simple welcome—can make a big impact.
In this post, we share gentle, thoughtful ways to help your student feel at ease from the start. You do not need to be perfect—just present, kind, and open.
Supporting Students Through Homesickness
New country. New people. New everything.
Even the most confident international students can feel homesick in the early days of their stay—and that is perfectly normal.
In our latest blog post, we share simple, gentle ways host families can offer support without pressure. From keeping routines steady to offering quiet reassurance, your presence can make all the difference.
How to prepare the Room for your Guest
🛏️ A clean bed, a quiet space, and a simple gesture of welcome—sometimes that is all it takes.
When your international student arrives, their room becomes more than just a place to sleep. It is their retreat, their study corner, their comfort zone away from home.
In this post, we share exactly how to prepare a cosy, student-friendly room that makes a lasting first impression—without needing to redecorate or renovate.
📘 Thoughtful, simple, and warm—just like the best kinds of hosting.
How to Support your Student’s English Learning at Home
You do not need to be a teacher to make a big difference.
Everyday conversations, patience, and encouragement can help your student grow in confidence with their English—right from the comfort of your home.
Here we discuss simple, natural ways to support your student’s language learning—without pressure or formal lessons.
Understanding Cultural Differences: A Guide for Host Families
Cultural differences are part of the beauty of international exchange—but they can also bring small surprises.
This time, we explore how to approach these differences with openness, kindness, and curiosity. From food habits to communication styles, understanding each other is the key to a successful and respectful homestay experience.
Helping your Students Navigate Public Transport in Dublin
🚌 New city, new routes, new challenges?
For many international students, figuring out how to get around Dublin can be overwhelming at first. But with a little guidance, it quickly becomes a part of their independence and daily adventure.
We share practical tips host families can use to help students feel confident using Dublin Bus, Luas, and DART—from Leap Cards to journey planning apps.
How to Build a Great Relationship with your Student
💬 A strong relationship is at the heart of every great hosting experience. But how do you build trust and connection with someone from a different culture, language, and background?
In this post, we share simple, thoughtful ways to connect with your international student—from everyday conversations to small gestures that make a big impact. 🤝🌍
Meal Planning for International Students: What to Cook and What to Avoid
🍽️ Wondering what to cook for your student guest?
Hosting an international student does not mean you need to become a gourmet chef—but a little planning goes a long way.
In this post, we share practical tips for easy, student-friendly meals, what to avoid, and how to make mealtimes relaxed and inclusive. From breakfast basics to dinner favourites, you will feel ready to welcome your student with confidence. 🥦🥔
Top 10 Tips For First-Time Host Families
👋 New to hosting? Opening your home to an international student for the first time can feel exciting—but also a little uncertain. What should you prepare? How much support do they need? Where do you even start?
We have got you covered! Our latest blog post shares 10 simple, practical tips to help first-time host families feel confident, supported, and ready to make the most of this unique experience.
What to Expect when Hosting an International Student
🌍 Thinking of becoming a host family? We walk you through what to expect, how to prepare, and why it might be one of the most rewarding things you do this year.