Minerva Homestay students always have their own room, fully furnished, including a desk or quiet place to study, no matter what their plan. (Note that private bathrooms are unusual in Montreal). Sheets, pillows, and blankets are also provided by the host family.

Students on the Homestay or Bed & Breakfast plans may use laundry facilities at no extra cost, provided they are owned by the host family. If the family uses coin-operated machines, then the student must also pay for his or her laundry.

Your family will also allow you reasonable use of the telephone for local calls. For long distance calls, you need a phone card, available at the local corner store.

As an adopted family member, family rules apply to you! Every family has rules concerning meal times, visitors and smoking, so find out what they are. If you are late or not coming home for supper, you should call your host family.

People will expect you to keep your room clean and tidy because this is your private area. Canadian families do not usually have housekeepers and most women go out to work. Please remember that although you are contributing towards the cost of your room and board, you are nevertheless a guest in someone else's home.

If you are going to bring your computer or other valuables, please make sure you have the necessary insurance. Canadian home insurance does not cover the property of guests.

Your host family will also make sure that you get to school safely on the first day.

Essentially, your host family will give you support and friendship and be there for you if you have a problem. Yet the key to a good homestay is communication. Don't be shy. If you don't eat certain foods, or if you have special needs, please let your host family know. We all want you to be happy.