Going to live in france for exchange- what should I take?

Question

im 14 and im going to france as an exchange student in october until january, so ill be there for winter.

what things should i take? im not sure where ill be exactly.

also, i should take my host family gifts, what do you think would be appropriate?

pleasehelp.

thankyou heaps

Answer 1

Ooh you're so lucky!! Do you have no idea where you'll be going?  Because that will make a big difference.  Where are you from?  When I went on exchange, I took a present for my host family each time - usually just for the mother actually.  So because I'm Irish, I took either a CD of Irish music, or a celtic-designed photo frame or some Irish whiskey or something like that.  Seeing as you're going for longer, you might want to bring gifts for the other family members too once you know more about them.  I would say a recipe book for the mother, but there's a slight chance that it could come across as rude as food is very important in French families and it might seem as if you're suggesting they make food to suit you.  So you're safe with CDs or drinks (not wine - French love their wine but they know what they like) or little things for the home.  Bring photos of your family and friends, and of your home town and bring leaflets or postcards of where you're from.  This will help with conversations.

Also, bring some music you like - either CDs or if you have an mp3 player or ipod.  You can compare music with other French teenagers and see if any of you like the same style of music.

I don't know where you're from so I can't really tell you what the weather's like in France seeing as I'd have to compare it to whatever you're used to.

One thing you can't do without (unless you're fluent) is a pocket French/English dictionary.  Every now and then there's just one word causing a problem so it's very useful for that.

If you have any hobbies then take whatever you need to keep that hobby up.  Like if you play an instrument, take it if you can (if it's portable) or some sheet music or something.  If you play tennis, take a couple of rackets.  Whatever!  It will help the family know what you're into and they'll probably be more than happy to try to take part in it if they can.  They'll probably encourage you to try out their interests so it works both ways.  When I went I had to go to martial arts classes lol.

And no, there's nothing wrong with the beef there.  Otherwise the French wouldn't eat it.  Though, they do like their meat done differently than most people.  They usually will take their meat very rare (not well cooked) but it won't do you any harm.  If you're really not happy about that then you could ask for your meat to be "bien cuit" (well cooked).

Good luck, you'll have a great time.  Just keep in mind that the first few weeks or even the first month might be a bit difficult as you'll be feeling homesick, but just stick it out!!  It will really be worth it, it'll be such a good experience and will improve your language skills sooo much!!

Answer 2

You didn't say where you are from, but I would suggest gifts that your home state is noted for.  For example, maple syrup is a nice gift from Vermont.

The weather can be warm or it can be chilly in that time frame so pack clothes for all seasons.

Most importantly, bring your cheerful attitude and willingness to practice the French you've learned; that will delight your host family.