Independent Homestay in Chile

The homestay program is a great opportunity for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Chilean culture. Given the flexible structure of the program, participants are not only able to practice Spanish and partake in daily activities with their host family but are also able to explore the community independently.  

Location

Host family placements may occur throughout Chile, and you can choose up to 3 locations in order of preference within Chile. Areas are selected by the different regions that make-up this lengthy country. Placements are not made in the extreme north or south of the country. While we are unable to guarantee your requests, we will do our best to accommodate them. 

Accommodation and Meals

Host families represent all walks of life, just like families from your home country. Your family may be a couple with or without children, a single parent, or a single person interested in other cultures. CCI works together with partner offices in Chile to find the best match for you according to your unique profile and interests. Our partner office maintains a network of trained local coordinators who select, screen, and monitor host families to help make a placement that is appropriate for you.

Within each family you will experience a different dynamic, but they are all motivated by the idea of making cross-cultural friendships. They will be eager to learn about you and your culture and are excited to teach you about their own. Your host family placement will include full board (3 meals per day) with the host family.  

Activities and Sightseeing

Since every family is different, each family will have many unique interests. Typical family activities might include going to the park or local shopping center, visiting relatives and sharing meals together. While the main focus of the program will be getting to know your host family and spending time with them, you will have the chance to see local attractions as well. Exploring the community in which you live can be a great way to further your knowledge of the local culture and language. However, you should feel comfortable traveling on your own, as host families are not required or expected to be tour guides. 

Local Support

CCI always provides you with a thorough network of support before departure and during your time abroad. You will be provided with pre-departure orientation materials that will walk you through every step of your program. You will also have a local coordinator available to you throughout your stay to help with any difficulties or questions. He or she is trained to work with exchange participants and is there to help you make the most of your experience. 

Travel Arrangements

All travel arrangements must be booked according to CCI instructions. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you figure out the best way to get to your host community. No matter where you are placed in Chile, all international flights must connect through Santiago. From the capital city, you will either connect to a regional airport located near your host community or you can choose to take ground transportation (bus) from Santiago to your location if it is not too far away. CCI can arrange for a local coordinator to meet you at the airport and make sure you get on the correct bus. However, you should be prepared to make some transfers independently.

Travel in Chile can take some time as the country is quite spread out so it is important to consider this when deciding your program dates.  

Dates

The homestay program in Chile runs 1-4 weeks in length and you may set you own start and end dates throughout the year. Please note that during the December holiday season and during the months of January and February, placements are very difficult to make. If you are interested in going at this time, please contact CCI well in advance of your intended departure.  

Requirements

Applicants must be 17+ years of age. Basic Spanish is necessary in order to communicate with your host family. Although some Chilean families may know a tiny bit of English, it should not be expected.

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Feel free to contact us by phone toll free (in the U.S. only), 1-888-ABROAD-1 (888-227-6231).

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