Be a Good Houseguest in a Foreign Country

If you visit friends or family in the United States, you probably understand how to be a considerate houseguest: You keep your sleeping area clean, don’t make a mess in the bathroom, offer to help prepare some of the meals, and leave when you say you will.

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If you have been invited to stay in a private home overseas, however, you might find that you’re not quite as sure about the general rules of etiquette.

Every country differs a bit on what the natives find to be good guest behavior, so it’s always best to do some research on the cultural norms of the country that you plan on visiting. In general, though, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Remember that eating times may differ from what you’re used to. In many areas of the world, for example, the main meal is served at what Americans would consider lunchtime, and only a light snack is served in the evening. In other areas, a heavy meal is consumed late at night. While you shouldn’t feel as though you need to go hungry if you require something more substantial in the early afternoon or evening, try to adjust to the new eating routine if you can. It might help if you offer to buy some groceries, or arrive with some non-perishable snacks in your bag to take the edge off. Also remember that you might not recognize some of the foods served to you, and that some of the foods that you like might be considered unclean in certain countries. Since you’ll be traveling across time zones, a gracious host or hostess will understand that your appetite and food preference is not aligned with the cultural norms, but tread cautiously anyway to avoid offending your hosts.

• Be aware of household rules and routines. In some countries, shoes are never worn inside. This may vary depending on the family, of course. Also, consider that in some countries, water and electricity is very expensive, so the people might not shower or wash laundry as often as you might be accustomed to doing. You know the saying about when in Rome; that applies to when you visit any part of the world. Take your cues from your hosts and if something isn’t clear, don’t be afraid to ask.

• Avoid topics that might be offensive. If you are visiting family members or close friends, then this might not be an issue, but individuals in some countries are less outspoken than Americans tend to be. Communication styles vary depending on where in the world you are, so any type of opinionated debating might greatly offend your hosts. Don’t count on recognizing body language in this situation, as some cultures strive to not show anger or other negative emotions. It’s best to steer away from political topics, or those which might be sensitive in nature, unless you know your hosts very well.

• Look into customs regarding gift-giving and offers to extend your stay. In some countries, it is customary to bring a particular type of gift to your host or hostess, so research this and try to conform. A simple gift from your home state is never a bad idea, unless it contains an item or food that would be considered offensive in your host country. Also, in some cultures, the hostess might ask you to stay longer than you had originally intended, but the offer may come with the expectation that you will decline it. It is best to stick to your original itinerary in most cases.

Visiting a new country can be intimidating, but it is so much nicer when you have someone offering you a private home to stay in. Getting past some cultural differences is a great way to learn more about the people in the part of the world that you are visiting. Honest communication and a bit of legwork done before you leave the States will be your allies as you strive to be the best houseguest you can be in a foreign country.

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