February 26, 2024

Internationa Student Travel in the US: Best Student Travel Discounts

International Student Travel in the US: Best Student Travel Discounts

Studying abroad is an exciting adventure that opens up a world of opportunities but also comes with its fair share of questions and uncertainties. As an international student in the United States, one common query is, “Can I travel freely, and what about my host family?” Where can I find student travel discounts?

Let’s explore the nuances of traveling as an international student, including considerations for those under the age of 18. A bonus is this article is the best place to get student travel discounts.

1. Can I Travel in the US as an International Student?

Absolutely! The United States offers a vast and diverse landscape waiting to be explored. From the bustling streets of New York City to the scenic beauty of California, there are endless possibilities for enriching experiences. However, it’s essential to understand the responsibilities and expectations associated with traveling while studying and living in a homestay.

2. Will My Host Family Allow Me to Travel?

The extent to which your host family permits travel varies. Communication is key. Discuss your plans with them, detailing where you intend to go, how long you’ll be away, and your mode of transportation. Most host families support students experiencing the country, but mutual understanding and trust are crucial.

3. Will My Host Family Want to Know Where I Am?

Yes, and it’s a reasonable and courteous request. Your host family is responsible for your well-being, and knowing your whereabouts is a part of that responsibility. Tell them about your travel plans, share your contact details, and notify them of any changes. Open communication fosters trust and ensures a positive experience for you and your host family.

4. What if I Am Under 18 Years Old?

Being under 18 adds an extra layer of consideration. While you can travel, there might be restrictions on certain activities. Always adhere to local laws and regulations. If you plan to stay overnight at a hotel, check their age policy and have the necessary permissions from your host family.

5. Can I Book a Hotel Room?

Booking a hotel room as an under-18 international student might require special arrangements. Some hotels have age restrictions or policies requiring a guardian’s presence. Contact the hotel directly to discuss your situation and inquire about their policies for underage guests.

6. Can I Rent a Car If I Am Under 18 Years Old?

Renting a car typically requires the driver to be at least 21 years old. However, some rental agencies may allow individuals aged 18-20 to rent with additional fees or restrictions. Check with the rental agency beforehand and know the terms and conditions. A great place to find student travel discounts on car rentals is here.

7. Where Can I Find Student Travel Discounts on Flights, Hotels, and Car Rentals?

Familyholidaycentral.com is an excellent resource for international students seeking discounts on travel essentials. The website often provides exclusive student deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals, helping you maximize your budget while exploring the US.

8. Popular Places to Visit in California and New York City and Where to Find Student Travel Discounts

California:

San Francisco: Explore the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz Island, and stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf. See our blog post on What to See in San Francisco.
Los Angeles: Discover the glamour of Hollywood, relax on Santa Monica Beach, and explore the diverse neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Venice Beach.
San Diego: Visit world-class beaches and the San Diego Zoo. San Diego is a 2.5 hr ride from Los Angeles

New York City:

Times Square: Experience the vibrant energy of this iconic landmark, filled with theaters, shops, and restaurants. Find Student Travel Discounts here.
Central Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride in this expansive urban oasis.
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Immerse yourself in the rich history of these symbols of American freedom and immigration.

In conclusion, traveling as an international student in the US is possible and highly encouraged. Open communication with your host family, understanding local regulations, and utilizing resources like familyholidaycentral.com for discounts can make your exploration both enjoyable and affordable.

Embrace the opportunity to discover the diverse wonders of the United States while balancing your responsibilities as a student and a guest in a host family’s home.

February 24, 2024

2023 Best Attractions for Boston Homestay Students

The best attraction for Boston Homestay students, the city of Boston boasts a rich history, making it an ideal place for students to immerse themselves in learning. With many attractions to explore, Boston homestay students can continually discover something new and exciting. However, amidst the array of options, a select few stand out as exceptional places for both fun and educational experiences, allowing students to enjoy themselves and learn about this extraordinary city.

This page contains affiliate links.

The Freedom Trail

While the Freedom Trail is not a single attraction, it can be a major one that is perfect for Boston homestay students and encompasses many of the city’s historical parts. The entire trail is marked well and will take everyone three miles from start to finish. There are sixteen stops along the Freedom Trail, and students can learn about each attraction at each stop. Some of the most important sites include the Old Granary Burying Ground, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Paul Revere House, and the Bunker Hill Monument. IHPS Boston Students can Get Student discounts here.

Boston Common and Public Garden

Homestay students will notice ecology is everywhere throughout Boston Common and the Public Garden. Boston Common is the oldest park in the US. The spring and fall are perfect for visiting Boston homestay students because that is when the flowers bloom or the fall foliage begins. It is the same across the street at the Public Garden. The twenty-four-acre garden is filled with flowers, plants, and a lake. While a ride in the infamous Swan Boats won’t count as part of a history lesson, learning about their history since they first launched in the 1870s will.

Museum of Science

Science is everywhere inside the Museum of Science, and Boston homestay students will love all the hands-on learning they will do during their visit. There are more than seven hundred exhibits that the students can interact with. The most popular exhibits though include the Butterfly Garden, Electricity Dome, and ComputerPlace. There is also a planetarium so that students can see star shows. This museum is top choice so make sure to check it out when you are in the city!

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, located in the heart of Boston, is the best attraction for Boston Homestay students seeking a cultural and artistic experience. This enchanting museum, housed in a Venetian-style palace, is a treasure trove of art and history. It boasts an impressive collection of masterpieces, including works by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Botticelli. For students on a homestay program in Boston, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse art forms and immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The museum’s tranquil atmosphere and carefully curated exhibits provide an ideal environment for learning and appreciation. It’s not just a museum; it’s a gateway to the past and a celebration of artistic brilliance, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to enrich their cultural experience during their stay in Boston.

Continue reading “2023 Best Attractions for Boston Homestay Students”

November 9, 2023

Homestay Students – Ideal for host family and international students

What are the benefits for homestay students and host families?

What benefits can host families and homestay students gain from participating in a student homestay program? Engaging in such a program can benefit both parties, particularly in challenging economic times. Hosting can provide an additional source of income for host families and introduce a sense of novelty and diversity into households. For homestay students, living off-campus is a less expensive housing option, and some schools like the very popular Santa Monica College and Pasadena City College do not provide dormitories and Homestays students are on their own to find suitable housing. Homestay students also benefit from conversational English at home, and the safe, family-type environment many of them want while studying so far from their home countries.

Continue reading “Homestay Students – Ideal for host family and international students”

Hosting an International Student

Hosting an international student

Have you been wondering what it’s like to host an international student in your home? Offering a warm, welcoming family environment and a safe way for students to immerse themselves in the English language and culture can be a life-changing experience for your family. Becoming a host family is a great way to expose your family to other cultures and make extra income. Why not use that spare bedroom in your home and forge a lifelong relationship with an international student today? Read on to find out what to expect when hosting an international student in your home. Continue reading “Hosting an International Student”

August 17, 2020

Virtual learning can be serious barrier for ESL students

An ESL student named Tran* arrived in the US from Vietnam less than 9 months ago. She has been working hard to learn English since then — a task made even more difficult now that all of her classes are taught virtually.

Tran is one of more than a million students in the United States learning English as a second language, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Now with many schools relying on remote learning to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in schools, the ability to stay on top of classes has become even more difficult. Luckily, Tran is living in a homestay with a compassionate host family who committed to helping with her ESL studies during this pandemic.

Initially, Tran struggled when her ESL classes went online back in March. It was hard for her to switch to an online learning format and the lack of socializing really affected her. She was used to doing homework with friends, hanging out on campus and getting coffee at the neighborhood cafe. Tran was unsure if she could adapt to the new normal and stay in the USA during the lockdown since she was not going to be able to have the full study abroad experience.

Many of her ESL friends were already booking flights home because they were going to be able to complete their courses from their home country and save on their housing fees. Tran didn’t want to go home and with the blessing of her mom and dad in Vietnam and the support of her host family in the US, she stayed. Looking back now, she is so glad she did.

Tran told IHPS that many of her friends who went home to their country feel like they have lost a lot of their English skills, especially their conversational skills. “It’s difficult for my friends to practice since their families do not speak English at home and many of her friends got jobs but they don’t get to use their English,” she told us.

Tran and her host family here in the US found a groove and learned how to adjust to the online learning format, but it wasn’t easy. “I would help her with her activities, in between doing my own daily work. My children would also chip in to help, and, of course, we all spent time talking at the breakfast and dinner table. It was definitely a group effort and rewarding for my family to see her doing so well,” her host mother said.

Tran also found ways to interact more with her other friends in the US. Her favorite weekend night pastime was watching a movie and playing online charades with her school friends.

Nine months later, Tran feels she made a better choice than her peers who went home to their country. She did mention to IHPS that many of the students plan to come back to continue their ESL studies and would like to live in a host family with the hope of being placed with a family like hers.

Fortunately, the pandemic experience for Tran was positive and successful. IHPS hopes English learners get back into their classroom with their peers for an in-person learning environment, so more success stories like Tran’s can be shared.

*Student’s name has been changed to protect her privacy