First of all, I had an incredible trip to Korea, and my homestay
experience was partly responsible for my great experience. Thank you for all
your help! Here is my (generally positive) feedback.
The service I received was great! The email communication was efficient
despite the timezone issue slowing it down, and all my questions and concerns
were addressed appropriately. I would suggest, perhaps, giving applicants for
homestay a choice of at least 2 possible homestays. When I was given the
profile of a potential host, I didn't see any issues and so agreed with that
host. I didn't see a problem with that host, and therefore had no reason to
refuse the recommendation, but I think I would have liked to be given more
(even just one more!) recommendation that could have fit the needs I
highlighted in previous e-mails, as it probably would have made me feel more in
control of my trip planning and expectations.
The apartment I stayed at was lovely. It felt lived in and homey, which
is what I was looking for in a homestay experience. It is difficult to give
good critique of the accommodations because they are someone's home; and
ultimately, all change is up to their needs and their lifestyle, not their
guests'. For that reason, I will express satisfaction with my accommodations.
The only comment I would make is that there was no shower curtain in the
bathtub, which made the floor outside the tub (and sink, counter and toilet)
all wet, and rather slippery. This, again, though, is a very subjective
observation, as I understand that it may be a part of the host's lifestyle, and
therefore may not warrant any change.
I unfortunately did not get to socialize much with my host. I explored
a lot on my own as I am a very independent and curious traveler, so I
experienced a lot of Korean culture on my own. However, I will highlight that
my homestay mother made traditional Korean food and was eager to share with me,
which made me feel the hospitality of traditional Korean meal services.
Overall, I am very satisfied of my travels, and very satisfied with the
services offered by Homestay Korea. I think it's very organized and transparent
in its procedures, and I appreciated the punctuality and dedication of everyone
involved in completing my experience in Korea.
Once again,
thank you so much for all your help. You and your team were essential to
making my trip a success, and I am so glad we got to work together.