Staying with Canadian Hosts
- Show your authorized LOI upon arrival at your Servas Canada host’s home before being asked.
- Expect to stay with your Canadian host for a maximum of two days and two nights. Do not ask your host to stay longer, but you may stay longer if sincerely invited by your host.
- If you only plan to stay one night, discuss this option with your host when making arrangements.
- Hospitality may be basic: maybe a private bathroom, maybe not. If you have specific needs (e.g., soft bed, no stairs, food restrictions) discuss them with your host before arriving.
- In busy homes, enquire about the best time to use the bathroom (toilet, sink, bathtub/shower) in the morning.
- In most cases, breakfast will be provided and usually other meals, but don’t expect it.
- In some families both adults work, so breakfast may be quick during the week.
- It is your responsibility to reach the host’s home.
- Hosts may want you out of the house when they are not home; ask.
- Some hosts may tell you about local places, have time to show you around, or arrange for you to meet people, but don’t expect it.
- No money should change hands for your accommodation, but consider offering to cook a meal, paying for dinner out, or sharing costs for sightseeing, etc.
- Ask before using the telephone, computer, or wifi access.
- Be considerate—you are in a person’s home. Clean up after yourself, and offer to help.
- If you are travelling with a person to whom you are not married, accept the sleeping arrangements provided by your host.
- Do not bring anyone who is not an approved Servas traveller to a Servas host.
- Day hosts do not host travellers over night. They may be able to meet you or show you local sites.
- All host and traveller contact information is confidential and to be used for Servas business only.
- After your visit:
- Write a thank-you note to each host.
- If desired, keep in touch with hosts.
- Share your travel stories on the Servas Canada website.