The South African in general is a very friendly and generous person, and the host families really look forward to have an exchange student and learn something about a different culture.

The middle class family home in South Africa might not be as modern and well-furnished as what you are used to. This is mainly because they are used to live more outdoors and are not so concerned about the interior as we maybe. All families can speak English, but there are 11 official languages.

Afrikaans and English are the main languages you will learn and study.

The students are mostly placed in Afrikaans or English families. But everybody speaks and understands English. If students are placed in the Cape area, we have a lot of so called "coloured" host families, many of them are Afrikaans speaking. Students are also placed in Indian families, English speaking, but this is mostly in the Durban area. A lot of students are also placed up along the coast – the so called Garden Route, in Port Elisabeth for instance.

Many families have still got servants that are employed either part or full time. This does not mean that the student must not look after his or her room and generally help out with household chores. Many families are working full time so they do expect a bit of help in the house. Some families will tell you that you are not expected to do anything, so you must just ask if you are not certain about your duties.

Families have a very strict discipline, curfew rules etc., but at the same time you will find that your family is very generous and will do their utmost to make you feel "at home".