Welcome to Chicago!

Homestay with Mindy: Testimonial

Since Mindy is such a trustworthy tutor, I didn't get too nervous and was really looking forward to the program. It turned out to be an experience that I'll never forget! I'd never been to Chicago before, and to be honest, it wasn't at the top of my list, but it was definitely the right choice. Now it's one of my favorite cities and I would love to go back again. I truly got to experience something that money can't buy.

I am so grateful about how open minded Mindy was and how she didn't exaggerate about what I could and couldn't do. She was very clear about it beforehand, so I could get excited without getting my hopes up too high and feeling disappointed in the end. I was really happy about that! Making sweets is one of my favorite topics, so the pie making lesson was so much fun!!

What's the city like?

Chicago is a strange and wonderful city where nature and city life come together. Mindy's house is conveniently located in the heart of the city, so if I wanted to go downtown by myself, it was just a quick train ride away. Just like in Tokyo, I felt kind of...independent? Moreso than a tourist, I felt a bit like someone who was living in the area.

Mindy's homestay program includes something called "Tag Along with Mindy," where you get to experience her actual lifestyle with her family and friends. I got to spend time with her family and friends having a barbeque by the lake, seeing her friend's comedy show, etc. Chicago is a truly wonderful place that lets you enjoy both nature and city life to the fullest.

What's the host like?

I think relaxed and open is a good way to describe Mindy. Her attitude doesn't change no matter who is talking to, and that sincerity really gives you a sense of security. Even though I spent a lot of time tagging along with her friends, she took care of me naturally without making a fuss, and I started feeling more and more like one of them.

Her husband Kendall, whom she met in high school, also taught English in Japan and I felt that he is very warm and considerate towards Japanese people.

Homestay top

How It Works

What is the Cafetalk Homestay Program?

For the first time ever, you have a the chance to live the lifestyle of that tutor whose lessons you’ve always been taking. What sets Cafetalk’s homestay program apart from others is that we know our hosts (the tutors) very well.

Rather than accepting applications from people who want to become hosts, we invite trustworthy tutors to join the program after we’ve thoroughly gotten to know them. The biggest difference is that you and the tutor can get to know each other on a personal level before your stay.

Not sure which city to choose?

You can take it easy in the countryside, or experience a whole new different lifestyle in the city, or you can even stay in a city where two different cultures are mixed together.

If you’re not sure which destination suits you best, or would like to learn more about the tutor and their lifestyle before making your choice, please book a counseling session.

How to Apply

Once you have decided on a program and your desired dates, please click on the application button at the bottom of this page, fill out all the required fields, and send.

We will double check the dates with the tutor and contact you with an estimate. *Please note that if you are not already one of the tutor's students, you may be required to take a home stay counseling session or a pre-home stay lesson.

Free Counseling