Your student is here—or maybe they’re landing any day now. Either way, this fall kicks off a life-changing adventure for your family. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, you’ll probably scratch your head a few times—and that’s all part of the magic of hosting.| ICES Blog
Hosting a high school exchange student is the best. But...it can also get awkward. Don’t worry. Awkward moments are normal in the first weeks. The key question is: How can you navigate them? Let's see...| ICES Blog
Discover why late-summer hosting decisions create unforgettable experiences for families and exchange students. Learn the benefits of becoming a Welcome Family today.| blog.icesusa.org
Written by Meng Kit Tang. This article explores a different kind of diplomacy in Taiwan-China relations. When people-to-people contact is grounded in transparency and democratic safeguards, it becomes strategic. This article argues that Taiwan should shape engagement to build trust, defuse propaganda and complement hard deterrence with soft resilience. Continue reading| Taiwan Insight
PEACE Feels like a big word. Too big sometimes. Like something reserved for world leaders or breaking news headlines. Just too far off and too hard to reach. But what if peace didn’t have to be some distant, daunting goal? What if it started small? Say HI for Peace is Hostelling International’s global campaign to bring […] The post Time To Level Up: Play For Peace! appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
Embarking on a cross-country USA adventure is a dream for many travellers but, with Hostelling International (HI), you’re guaranteed a journey rich in culture, community, and unforgettable experiences. From the historic streets of Boston to the soulful rhythms of New Orleans, and the sun-soaked shores of California, we’ve prepared an east to west USA itinerary to […] The post East To West USA Adventures With Hostelling International appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
Hey digital nomads, are you ready to upgrade your office view for that next business video call? Well look no further, we at Hostelling International (HI) are here to help and have rounded up some of our most unique destinations, perfect for remote work. Whether it’s a mountain backdrop, a beachside breeze, or a buzzing […] The post Our Top Eco-Friendly Remote Work Hubs appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
Trip to the Wisconsin Dells Spirit representative Katherine celebrated cultural exchange in Wisconsin, where International Residence Hall hosted an Exchange […]| www.spiritexchange.com
One of the most important documents in your exchange journey is the DS-2019 form. But what is a DS-2019 form, and why is it so important?| www.spiritexchange.com
Spirit Representatives Caryn and Susie traveled to South Dakota this July to visit Spirit participants in the region. During the […]| www.spiritexchange.com
Spirit Cultural Exchange’s Vice President of International Business recently had an interview with, Tommaso C., a Trainee Program participant who […]| www.spiritexchange.com
September brings cooler weather and the close of the Work and Travel program for the summer. Enjoy some final days […]| www.spiritexchange.com
A day at the beach in the US is one of the best ways to enjoy summer! Whether you are […]| www.spiritexchange.com
For the last few months, you've probably felt mounting excitement about your upcoming exchange year in the United States. But now that it is actually time to leave, that excitement can easily turn into nerves.| ICES Blog
Give your school-aged children the gift of flexible, intercultural childcare with Au Pair in America’s EduCare program.| Kid Notes
Understanding what is expected in an American classroom and what you will need to purchase is an important part of setting up a US classroom.| www.spiritexchange.com
When families welcome an au pair into their home, they not only gain reliable live-in childcare assistance, but also the chance to experience cultural exchange and build a lasting friendship… The post Cultural Exchange Activities: Celebrating International Friendship Day with Your Au Pair appeared first on Kid Notes.| Kid Notes
The lead-up to a new school year can be a hectic time for parents, filled with to-do lists, school supply outings, and schedule coordination—not to mention the search for reliable… The post Preparing for Back-to-School: How an Au Pair Can Help appeared first on Kid Notes.| Kid Notes
Hosting a high school exchange student is an adventure. But how can you prepare to share your American culture in a way that feels fun, thoughtful, and welcoming?| ICES Blog
Open your door to an exchange student and make a lasting impact by fostering cultural understanding and connection. Learn how you can help build a more compassionate world.| blog.icesusa.org
Thanks to our partnership with Bounce, you can now store your luggage securely at HI Hostels, even if you're not staying with us.| HiHostels Blog
Switzerland transforms into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts during the summer months. And with Hostelling International (HI) by your side, you’re all set to plan those next unforgettable summer adventures in Switzerland! From alpine trails to crystal-clear lakes, this stunning and vibrant country offers a wide range of summer activities for every kind of adventurer. […] The post Summer Adventures In Switzerland appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
What if the most patriotic thing you could do this Fourth of July wasn’t waving a flag—but opening your front door?| ICES Blog
Discover how high schools across the U.S. welcome and support exchange students, fostering cultural diversity and creating unforgettable experiences.| blog.icesusa.org
In today’s fast-paced hospitality industry, finding passionate, motivated, and globally minded talent can be a challenge. That’s why many hotels, […]| www.spiritexchange.com
July is a great time for fun and cultural experiences in the United States. The weather is warm, and there are many holidays and events that help people come together. If you are an exchange visitor or a host employer, here are some simple and fun cultural activities for July you can try!| www.spiritexchange.com
Living in a new country is an exciting experience. You get to meet new people, try different foods, and learn […]| www.spiritexchange.com
As a BridgeUSA J-1 visa sponsor, Spirit helps US-based companies connect with skilled international J-1 Front Desk Interns.| www.spiritexchange.com
As your new international Intern, Trainee, and Work & Travel participants start their BridgeUSA program, an important topic to consider is how you will handle payroll and understanding US taxes for these new exchange program employees.| www.spiritexchange.com
One way that your organization can share the power of international cultural exchange is to join Americans for Cultural Exchange.| www.spiritexchange.com
Hosting a J-1 STEM Intern through Spirit's Intern Program offers a unique opportunity to tap into global talent and fresh ideas.| www.spiritexchange.com
With some preparation, you'll be ready for American culture. Here are some American Culture Tips to make the most of your time in the USA.| www.spiritexchange.com
Explore a range of emotions you might feel after you say goodbye to your exchange student.| blog.icesusa.org
Craving the wild? Then let Hostelling International (HI) take you on an epic trip through one of the world’s most breath-taking and diverse landscapes, Canada. From the salty Atlantic breeze in Halifax to the glacier-carved serenity of Lake Louise, this is a coast-to-coast adventure built for hostel-hopping, trail-chasing explorers. Together with HI Canada, discover iconic […] The post A Backpacker’s Dream Across Canada appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
This story was originally published by The Sentient. At the end of their studies at San Carlos University in Guatemala City, Fredy Alvarado Contreras, Sergio Escobar Gonzalez and Dennis Najera Barillas were recruited to participate in a special opportunity: a year-long internship at a swine operation, where they would learn from experts, partake in American […]| Investigate Midwest
Here are some essential housing tips and resources to guide your planning for your BridgeUSA J-1 cultural exchange program.| www.spiritexchange.com
If you are currently participating in a BridgeUSA cultural exchange program in the US, you may have heard people talk […]| www.spiritexchange.com
2025 hospitality trends show that the global hospitality industry has moved beyond pandemic recovery and is now charting a new […]| www.spiritexchange.com
If you're a hotel, resort, or restaurant considering becoming a hospitality Host Company, you're investing in a global learning experience.| www.spiritexchange.com
Discover the real exchange student experience, including the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons learned during a year abroad.| blog.icesusa.org
Help your exchange student create meaningful closure by giving back to the community and reflecting on their cultural journey before they return home.| blog.icesusa.org
France offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty so let Hostelling International (HI) take you on an unforgettable journey of La Belle France. From the rugged shores of Brittany to picturesque Provence, the gourmet delights of Nouvelle Aquitaine to the lakes and mountains of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Join us on an amazing adventure that’s […] The post Discover France’s Best Regions With Hostelling International appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
At Hostelling International, we know that the best travel experiences don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. That’s why we’re excited to spotlight our partner, FREETOUR.com, a platform that’s revolutionising how travellers explore the world. FREETOUR.com is a global booking platform offering free and budget-friendly tours in over 140 countries. From iconic cities like Paris and […] The post Experience The World On A Budget With FREETOUR.COM appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
Spirit Cultural Exchange created this list to support your efforts and help you plan cultural activities for June that are engaging and fun for all!| www.spiritexchange.com
Ancient history is being reinterpreted with new insights, suggesting that Vedic religion might have influenced the ancient Middle East, particularly through the Hurrians and the Mitanni kingdom. Th…| Indrosphere
Come on an adventure with Hostelling International (HI) and unearth sustainable trails you need to explore, designed to protect the environment while giving you a fantastic outdoor experience. Whether hiking or cycling, exploring the great outdoors is a fantastic way to build connections. It gives you a chance to dive into local cultures, and really […] The post Sustainable Trails You Need to Explore appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
Discover the importance of youth exchange in today's world, fostering empathy, cultural understanding, and global citizenship through meaningful connections and shared experiences.| blog.icesusa.org
Spirit Cultural Exchange has created a list of ideas for Work and Travel Host Employers as they plan their cultural activities for May.| www.spiritexchange.com
Volunteering enriches exchange students' immersion in American culture, fostering community connections, understanding local issues, and experiencing diverse values and people firsthand.| blog.icesusa.org
Earth Day and Earth Month are perfect times to show some love for our beautiful planet and get inspired to protect it every day. At Hostelling International (HI), we believe that every little action makes a big difference, and everyone can join in with simple daily habits. Think about all the cool ways we can […] The post This Earth Month Let’s Highlight Some HI Champions Of Sustainability appeared first on HiHostels Blog.| HiHostels Blog
We understand that brainstorming cultural activity ideas can be overwhelming and sometimes difficult, especially when a Host Employer’s busy season […]| www.spiritexchange.com
India’s National Maritime Day, observed on April 5, honors the historic voyage of the SS Loyalty in 1919, symbolizing India’s maritime legacy. It highlights the nation’s ancient s…| Indrosphere
Bandel cheese, a unique artisanal cheese from Kolkata, boasts a rich colonial history rooted in Portuguese influence. Originating in the 16th century, it combines local cheesemaking traditions with…| Indrosphere
When you make friends in the American workplace as you work abroad, you will feel more at home and create a truly enriching experience.| www.spiritexchange.com
Last month, Spirit Cultural Exchange representative Katherine had the opportunity to visit some of our BridgeUSA winter participants on the […]| www.spiritexchange.com
One of the key aspects of preparing for your J-1 Visa Teacher Exchange Program is understanding the US school day schedule.| www.spiritexchange.com
The Alliance for International Exchange has released a new report, which underscores how BridgeUSA J-1 Visa programs benefit the United States.| www.spiritexchange.com
Explore unique and fascinating Valentine's Day traditions from around the world, from Germany's lucky pigs to Brazil's festive parades and Finland's celebration of friendship. Summarize the main point of the 'blog text': The blog post highlights diverse and unique Valentine's Day traditions from various countries around the world, showcasing how different cultures celebrate love and romance in their own special ways.| blog.icesusa.org
Discover how daily routines help kids feel secure, develop life skills, and improve behavior. ✓ Learn practical tips to create effective routines today!| Go Au Pair
Discover 25 fun and meaningful New Year's resolutions to bring more peace, cultural connection, and joy into your life in 2025.| blog.icesusa.org
Explore exchange students' and host families' favorite fall memories across the U.S., capturing vibrant autumn colors, cozy traditions, and unforgettable experiences.| blog.icesusa.org
A BBQ is a great way to experience culture, meet people, and enjoy good food. Here’s what to expect at an American summer barbecue.| www.spiritexchange.com
Partnering with a J-1 Culinary Intern could be the perfect opportunity to enhance your company's culinary offerings.| www.spiritexchange.com
Understanding the work etiquette in the USA is key to having a successful and enjoyable experience during your BridgeUSA program.| www.spiritexchange.com
Bia from Brazil has been attending poetry nights while in her adopted city and sharing her inner most thoughts on being an au pair. Some poems are happy and some explain the profound impact of a cultural exchange on an identity and on a mind, and words, or English words, will simply not suffice. Watch [...]| Global Awareness
APIA and UCLA in an on-going partnership that began years ago, developed a special course that meets the Department of State exchange program goals. This hybrid US American History course utilizes expert professors from UCLA who deliver the course content online over 19 weeks, while concurrently sending au pairs into their local community to share [...]| Global Awareness
Here is what Sara from Colombia and living in Florida shares! What do you think? Deadline to answer June 30 - click our "Speak Your Truth" to have your voice added to the choir! to| Global Awareness
Bears are amazing, but it’s important to know how to stay safe around them. Here are some bear safety tips to help you out if you see a bear.| Spirit Cultural Exchange