Frequently Asked Questions

What is life in a Chinese family like?

While of course every family is different, in general living with a family in Shanghai is quite relaxed. Each family has it’s own routines and it is important that you adapt a bit to life in your family. Dinner in China is usually served around 18:30 and you should make sure you are there on time. If you want to go for dinner with friends or join one of the evening school events, this is no problem, but you should let your family know in advance so they don’t cook for you. In the morning breakfast will be ready for you before you leave for class. There is always the option for you to join family activities on weekends or after class, but you of course never have to.

Can I bring someone home at night?

While Shanghai is quite an open society today, you will be given a key and it is ok to come home late if you want to enjoy Shanghai nightlife, it is culturally not acceptable to bring someone home to stay the night in your homestay.

Should I bring something?

You of course do not have to bring any presents or the like. However, usually a little present from your home country, whether it is food, local craftwork or any other specialty from your country is a great way to start the relationship.

Will the family be able to speak English?

In general English is not spoken in China. However, as you will be teaching a family member English, there should be at least one person who knows at least some English. After you booked your course, we will ask you to fill out a registration form, where you can indicate how much English you would like your family to be able to speak and we will keep this in mind when matching you with your family.

Will there be bed sheets?

Yes, your family will provide you with sheets and linen.

Can I wash my clothes?

Yes of course. Most of our homestay families actually do the laundry for their guests. If this is not the case in your family, you can use the washing machine.

How does LTL choose it’s Teach English Homestay Families?

Homestays have been the basis of all LTL programs from the first day we started the school onwards. Our first homestay families were friends or relatives of our teachers or staff (most of whom are still working with us today) and still today any new family we accept into the program has to first be recommended by someone we trust. We spend a lot of time checking our families and once we found a good family we usually work with them for a very long time. We have seen children of our families grow up with LTL students and it is great to see how being exposed to an international environment not only benefits our students, but often also the families themselves. Have a look at this TV documentary about living with an LTL standard homestay for a few more insights.