LIVING WITH A HOST FAMILY
What you need to know
As a volunteer or intern in Uganda, you want to make an impact. However, we also want you to experience the full extent of living and working in another country. To make this a reality, most of our volunteers and interns stay with locals while traveling.
By living with a host family, you get to experience more than the typical tourist. Your host family will teach you more about the country and culture. You’ll get traditional home cooked meals and you’ll get to build a bond which will be cherished for many years to come. Many of our volunteers still keep in contact with their host families and often return to visit!
We understand that you might still have some reservations or you just want to know what you can expect from your host family. This is why we’ve answered a few of our most frequently asked questions about host families. Let’s take you through them:
What is host family accommodation?
Avella Sights’ host family accommodation is a local family that opens their home to volunteers and interns from around the world. You can stay for short or long periods of time and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Host families come in all shapes and sizes including families with children, single parents, grandparents or empty nesters. They provide a bed, food and care during your travels.
How to find a host family?
You don’t have to worry about this because we’ll organize everything for you! Once you’ve applied for your project, our Volunteer Advisors will be in touch and connect you to your home away from home.
Are host families safe?
We take your safety seriously, which is why we have strict host family requirements in place. We carefully vet our host families, their homes and neighborhoods before and during your visit. They are chosen for security, comfort and friendliness to ensure you have the best stay possible.
Many of our hosts are also associated with our projects – for example, a teacher or headmistress at one of our partner schools or a doctor at one of our medical placements might also offer host family accommodation.
Will I be living alone with my host family?
The number of volunteers living with you and your host family will depend on a few factors. These include how many volunteers are in the country at the same time as you, as well as how many volunteers our host families can accommodate at a time. However, all of our host families are warm and welcoming. They’ll treat you as part of their family during your time in Uganda. If you feel more comfortable staying with another volunteer during your time in Uganda, speak to your Volunteer Advisor after you sign up. They’ll be able to make a plan for you.
Do I need to speak the local language to communicate with my host family?
English is widely spoken in Uganda so our host families usually speak English.
To make your transition into a new country easier, our staff will teach you a few basic phrases in the local language during your induction. Our staff also speak English and the local language so they’ll be able to assist if you ever encounter a language barrier.
Will my host family be able to accommodate my dietary requirements?
One of the best parts about traveling abroad is getting to taste the local food and popular dishes. However, we are aware that many people may have dietary requirements. Don’t let this scare you off from experiencing life with a host family. Although you’ll generally eat what your host family eats, they’re happy to accommodate you, whether you are vegetarian, lactose intolerant or have other requirements.
If you have any concerns, you can contact our Project Experts before applying. They’ll be able to advise you.
Do I have to do everything with my host family?
You don’t have to do everything with your local host family while traveling. You’ll be given the freedom to explore and socialize on your own or with other volunteers. However, you should always be respectful of mealtimes and curfews.
On the other hand, our host families know that part of the experience is about getting to know the locals and getting involved in daily activities. They’ll encourage you to make friends with the locals while travelling and this often starts with them. They take great pride in showing you around and sharing their culture. You may be invited to their local church service, a birthday party, wedding or dinner with friends.
Will there be internet or WiFi at my host family’s house?
As with any home, it’s up to the family to decide if they have the internet in their home. Of late, many families do, but this cannot be guaranteed. But don’t worry about not being able to access the web. Uganda has great cell service and data packages. The internet is also available for use at the Avella Sights office. You can check into the lounge any time.
Do I need to bring my own bedding when staying at my host family?
We want your host family’s house to become your home away from home. This means all the necessities will be provided for you, including your bedding. Don’t be shy to ask for an extra blanket if it gets cold either.
What should I get my host family as a thank you gift?
A thank you gift is never expected by your host family, but it’s always appreciated. This can be anything from a board game to popular spices from home. We always suggest you bring something from your home country as a personal thank you. The easiest to pack in your suitcase would be pictures of home, popular candies, snacks, or small handicrafts.
Want to know more about our accommodation?
Get in touch with our Project Experts. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.