Some tips on how to make the Dinehome experience safer
Use your real identity Dinehome is a network for you and for people living in the same city as you. Using your real identity and faithfully representing yourself are key requirements for being a member of Dinehome.
Prepare everything Make sure you discuss all the details of the meeting with your family/student in advance. Knowing the timing and possible meeting points will save time and make things run more smoothly. Always carry your mobile phone with you. Make sure you are recognised on the day of your first dinner together and set a clear meeting point and time. Don't hesitate to contact your match a few hours before the meeting time to make sure they are on time and that they don't need help getting to the meeting point.
Be clear on arrangements It is very important that any arrangements are clear from the start: agree in advance on both the start and end time of the dinner. Always bear in mind that there may occasionally be unforeseen circumstances that force a guest or guest to cancel or postpone the dinner. In this case we kindly ask you to let the family/student know as soon as possible and remember that being flexible helps considerably in this case.
Introduce yourself Introduce yourself to your match. Tell him/her a bit about yourself/family and why you are participating in Dinehome. We also recommend that you write in English the first time, keep up to date and respond quickly to messages.
Be yourself Be open about yourself. To save time when introducing yourself try to communicate the most important things about yourself first.
Find out more about your match Read their presentation and feel free to ask for more information. Be informed about the culture of the other members and make sure you are aware of any cultural/religious differences and different sensitivities.
Arriving Check in advance if your family is able to pick you up at a designated point. If you are not sure where to go, do not hesitate to contact them and ask for help. If possible, check the internet for a map of the neighbourhood where your host family lives before you arrive, including the route and means of getting to your host family and back home.
Try not to be late Make sure you contact your family and let them know if you are late. Don't forget to charge your phone! If you happen to be late, call your family and let them know. Make sure you have your phone switched on and charged at all times on the day of the dinner.
Keep in touch Exchange contact information with your family/student and contact them whenever you need to inform them of any changes to your plans.
Always keep records We recommend that you communicate with your family/student via Email/Whatsapp to ensure that there is a record of your interaction in case there are any problems.
Have fun! Relax! When you meet your family/student, make sure you are rested, positive and eager to have fun and socialise over dinner.
