Best of the Blog: Ten Top Posts

If you love a good story, we’ve got it.

If you love to learn, we can help.

If you’re curious about other perspectives, step right this way. . .

For several years now, we’ve been cranking out weekly blog posts to share our love of culture, exchange students, and host families--and all the fun the combination of those things brings.

Just in case you missed them the first time around, today we’re highlighting some of our most popular past blog posts.

So grab some java, settle into your favorite chair, and prepare to be delighted!

Americans Do the Strangest Things

Ever wonder what the rest of the world thinks of typical American customs? Here’s your chance to find out, as this post shares some of the most “normal” American habits that makes the rest of the world raise their eyebrows.  Read the post here.

Are Foreign Exchange Students Still Coming This Fall?

In 2020, as the pandemic dragged on from spring into fall, this was the question of the hour. This article shares the reasons many exchange students still wanted to come to the U.S. and what they hoped to gain—even in the middle of a pandemic.  Even though things are more-or-less back to normal, there's still so much good stuff in this post, right here.

Hosting an Exchange Student Leads to Happily Ever After

This too-good-to-be-true story sounds like something from a fairytale or romance novel—but it’s 100% real-life true!  We don't want to give too much away, so just grab a tissue and read the whole story here.

European Gift-Giving Customs

Everyone loves getting gifts, but who knew gift-giving varies so much around the world? This fascinating post takes a look at when, how, and what people give as gifts on the other side of the pond.  Check out the post here.

American Values that Intrigue, Baffle or Shock the World

What’s important to Americans? It’s true we are a diverse nation, but you might be surprised to learn how many values we share, despite all our diversity.  A fascinating read right here.

Take Two: Hosting After a Storm

When hosting an exchange student ends badly, it’s tempting to throw in the towel and never try again. This family shares why they dared to give hosting another shot—and why it was worth it!  Read their story here.

Exchange Students & Contact with Home: Helpful or Harmful?

This is a hot-button topic that comes up ALL. THE. TIME.  Seriously, it's one of the most common issues we deal with in this new digital age.  If you’re a host family or an exchange student, you really should read this post.

Don’t Make My Mistake!

A real-life host mom opens up and shares this oh-so-common mistake.  If you're a host family who's been there, done that, this post will reassure you that you're not alone.  And whether you're a seasoned host family or a first-timer, you can learn some very helpful tips and tools here.

A Guide to Parenting Around the World

Hosting an exchange student (or reading this blog post) will demonstrate that when it comes turning children into happy, productive adults, there’s more than one way to get the job done. Take a peek at some parenting philosophies from around the world.  It's all right here.

8 Reasons I Love Being a Host Mom

There are many reasons families choose to host an exchange student. This host mom shares her top 8.  You can probably guess some of her reasons, but I'm betting some will take you by surprise.  Read the post here.

Which post was your favorite?  Got ideas for future posts? Share in the comments below!

Still hungry for more? Check out our complete blog index here.

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