Living in a homestay can be quite difficult at times and requires a compromise of your own values to be respectful and understanding of the culture within the household you’re staying in. I am currently living in my third homestay, this time around in Josey Hill, Barbados, where I will be here for two weeks. I wasn’t originally going to write on this experience, but I think people think it’s worse than it really is, so I wanted to clear the air on a few things.

1. Expect your diet to change

Breaking bread together is what builds relationships between the cook and the guest. If you refuse to eat certain foods that are being served to you, then you might be considered as rude. Sometimes you just have to roll with it and experiment with your palette.

2. Your family's religion might differ from yours

I’ve lived in a strict Catholic home, as well as a liberal home. No matter the religion of your homestay family, you should make an effort to respect and value their beliefs whether or not you agree with them. Go to church on Sunday with them, be open to these new experiences.

3. You still have your own needs

So if you feel uncomfortable sometimes, it’s important to communicate that.

Overall, if you ever have the chance you definitely should give it a try. Living with another family is the best way to experience a different way of life in someone else's culture.