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Original poster

International student Visit Etiquette

15 replies

vintageteacups · 03/04/2011 22:41

Hi,

Some of youd DH's/DW's will be in similar situations as DH is currently studying where he is also 'sponsoring' an international student.

Now, unlike some, who maybe from France/US etc, our guy and his family are from a country very different to the UK. So at Easter, they are coming to visit us for the day at our home 2 hrs away and I'm doing lunch (he's a veggie and no fish man so in a panic a bit about that).

They have 3 children and I was thinking of getting them a gift to remember us by. DH said the lunch would be fine and I could perhaps bake a victoria sponge or something very english for afternoon tea. I said that I thought it would be nice for them to take home (to their country) a momento that was very english - he said not to bother. DH has helped him (and lots of other Int. students) loads since the start of the course - checking essays/sorting out cars/helping with english etc - so he said that was enough.

I want to get them something anyway (won't tell DH Wink) so what do you think would be nice? Is anyone else doing the same sort of thing? They have a son who is a late teen and two daughters who are about 10 and 12.

OP posts:
goinggetstough · 04/04/2011 11:53

Coffee table type book about UK or London (Amazon). Or look in Pastimes, National Trust shop.
Hope you have a super day, you sound like a very kind sponsor.

Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 12:08

Hmm - had a look but couldn't see any of the things you mean really goinggetstough. Had a look and found a lovely Union flag tapestry cushion but thought that might be a bit 'in your face' British. They are from an African country - it's really hard to choose the right kind of thing.

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wheresthepimms · 04/04/2011 13:19

vintage how about a red phone box money box and put a coin in and tell the kids to try collecting one of each coin from their birth year before they leave. My kids loved collecting the US quarters when we were there (know they are a bit smaller but its the thought that counts). How about a book about the different counties of Englan, one of the best gifts we were given when we left the states was a book called our 50 states, telling how each was different, there are even some illustrated guides on Amazon (in case reading in English is an issue for the wife)

Sure you will be great, you are always a fine host :)

Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 14:25

I like the counties of Britain idea. Right - off to look for one.

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goinggetstough · 04/04/2011 16:18

Great idea about the money boxes Pimms.
The books I was thinking about included "London from the Air", "Britain from the Air" or similiar from Amazon. "Natural History of the British Isles" from Pastimes..

Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 18:20

Good ideas - will carry on the search. Smile

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Kleftico · 04/04/2011 19:53

How about some papier mâché Easter eggs that you could fill with chocs or sweets for the children, but they can keep the eggs as a souvenir. It sounds naff but what about some coasters, tea towels, or one of those Whittards tea type gifts you can get. Something really touristy but nice ifykwim!

Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 19:55

Okay - touristy but nice Wink
so not this then......

[[http://www.amazon.co.uk/Solar-Queen-Assorted-By-Kikkerland/dp/B003EGB704/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1301943302&sr=8-1 Grin]

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Kleftico · 04/04/2011 21:44

Haha, love those! I want one!

MrsSnaplegs · 04/04/2011 22:14

One thing we were told during time at The College was some of the international students really struggle financially especially those from less affluent countries as they don't get as much financial support from their govt as those from places like France , Canada etc.
It may be your dh has said not to get a gift as well so as not to embarrass them financially hence the home made cake suggestion.
Sorry but just a thought!

Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 22:38

I want too kleftico - I thought it would be a great talking point at our next posting in case her grandson pops round for tea and it's on the mantle piece!(see other thread) Grin.

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Original poster
vintageteacups · 04/04/2011 22:41

Mrssnaplegs - hope you saw my private message ref. earlier?

That was what I was worried about - the financial thing. I think they must be fairly well off compared to others in that country because they own a very large business but I know they have told DH that what they get for their produce is pennies compared to what we sell the same weight of produce over here for.

I wanted to do/give them something but, yes, you're right, I don't want to embarrass them. Right - thinking hat back on....

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MrsSnaplegs · 05/04/2011 15:09

Vintage

Got the message and the individual has been in touch - please thank Mr Vintage for me!

Mrs S

Original poster
vintageteacups · 05/04/2011 16:44

Heehee - Mr Vintage says he really doesn't mind helping out mrssnaplegs.

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Original poster
vintageteacups · 05/04/2011 22:11

Okay - so I have just bought 'Britain From Above' - the book of the BBC series.

Mixed reviews but I think for the sponsor family, it will be a nice thing to keep from their time over here. Not too gushy or showy - just a really nice book to keep.

Thanks for your ideas Smile

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