10 points. Should I give host mom and host brother anything before I leave?

Question

I was an exchange student 6 years ago. I went to college in the US. My host mom and host brother are always nice and take good care of me for all these times. I can always stay at their house and have all their food. Well, they pretty much treat me like I am their child and sister.

I am going back home in 10 days. What can I do to show them I appreciate their kindness.

I am sure host mom does not want money because when I gave her money. She always refuses it. What should I do?

I am thinking when I go back home. I will send them something from my home country. What do you think?

Thank you.

Answer 1

While you're still with them, you could give them a gift certificate to a nice restaurant that you know they like or treat them them to a meal....IF they enjoy going out to eat.

But it could be anything like that....a movie and dinner, a book, take pictures of the 3 of you and make a small photo album for them to keep....

Then, once you go back home, I think it would be a great idea to send them a gift from your home country.

Answer 2

perhaps cook them a meal (if you have not done that b4) and give them something memorable (eg pictures of happy times together, do up a reminder list of things to do (if you are the one who co-ordinator at home etc...)

your host mom and brother will be surely miss you and are aware of your appreciation..

keep in contact will surely make their day.. calling to wish happy birthday, emails, snail mails etc.. small gesture makes wonders..

Answer 3

Yes! That is exactly what I was going to tell you to do. I think that if you sent them something from your home country they will cherish it. For now before you leave just give them a Thank you note or card. Then once you get home pick items from your culture you think each would enjoy. That is very thoughtful. Have a safe trip home.

Answer 4

Not money, as you said.  If they enjoyed you being their guest, they probably don't want compensation for it.  My suggestion is to give them something handmade from your country.  Also, try to keep in touch with them.

Answer 5

Send something that defines your home area.. something unique that they can't get there.

I.E. my brother did a exchange and went to Iceland.. being from Milwaukee, he sent them sweatshirts from the nearby university and some cheese and brats that can only be found out here.

Answer 6

Yes, I would send them something from your home country.  That way 1) they can remember you with a special piece placed in their home 2) they can't refuse or try to return it to you (i.e., the money you tried to give earlier).  

Congratulations on being a wonderful guest.

Answer 7

That's a great Idea!

Send them something that will let them think of you and smile.