TYPES OF PROGRAMS |
INTRODUCTION
Servas homestays provide insight into the political, cultural and social
realities that face people of diverse cultures and backgrounds around
the world. Both the traveler and the host are necessary for this homestay
to occur! You can choose to be a traveler, a host or both. As a traveler
more than 15,000 homes in over 127 countries around the world are open
to you. As a host you can travel without even leaving your own home. We invite you to read below about our Travel Programs and our Host Programs and find the best program
for you!
Please visit our Rates and Fees page for a full list of membership rates and (express)
postage fees.
International Traveler Program
Hosts around the world are waiting to welcome you with "Open Doors"!
Whether you are studying or volunteering abroad, traveling to a country
for the first time or returning to a favorite place, Servas homestays
can help you understand the places you visit on a deeper level and make
lasting friendships. An international Servas traveler shares in their
host's daily life and activities for 2 nights and 3 days, gaining insights
unavailable to casual visitors. Through person-to-person contact,
Servas travelers build bridges and overcome stereotypes. The international
traveler fee is $85 per adult for unlimited travel during a 12-month
period and a $25 deposit for up to 5 host lists. Download Application Packet PDF >
Domestic Travel Program
The domestic travel program is open to ALL US citizens for travel in the US only. This program is designed for
those who want experience Servas but are not traveling overseas. It is an opportunity to learn about your fellow
Americans by coming into contact with the many cultures and perspectives present here in the United States. Cost
for participation is a special rate of $50, as well as a $15 deposit for the US host list. If at any time during
the length of your year-long membership you would like to become an international traveler, you can simply return
your Letter of Introduction to the office with the additional fees and we will issue you an international stamp
(expiration date remains the same). Download Application Packet PDF >
International Students/Camp Counselors in the USA
Learn more about America and its many people through Servas! The
US Servas Open Doors Program can help international students/camp counselors
explore America's varied cultural landscape from the inside of US homes. Explore the United States the Servas way—learn firsthand about
American politics, social activism, pastimes, worship, and peace movements.
This program is ideal for students of English as a second language who
seek practical experience speaking English outside the classroom.
Even if you have no travel plans at this time, you can still use your
Servas membership to make friendly local contacts wherever you study
or work. The International Student/Camp Counselor program is open to
all non-US citizens aged 18 or over who are currently or were enrolled
at a USA higher educational institution, language or trade school within
the last year or are working at a US camp. Cost for participation is
a special rate of $25, as well as a $15 deposit for the US host list. Download Application Packet PDF >
Overnight Host Program
Servas hosts offer simple accommodations to approved Servas travelers for visits usually lasting
three days and two nights, allowing host and traveler time to begin a genuine exchange. Visits can be
extended beyond the two night minimum at the invitation of the host. Opening your doors provides the
traveler a way to learn about your political, religious and cultural context. You may invite the
traveler to your workplace or school, take them to your favorite local cultural attraction or share a
meal. Through sharing your daily life with the traveler and learning about theirs you help break down
stereotypes and build understanding. No money is exchanged between the host and traveler though hosts are
asked to make a $40 tax-deductible donation annually to help defray administrative costs. Download a Host Packet PDF >
Day Host Only Option
Day hosting is ideal for people who may not have the space, resources, or interest to accept
overnight guests, but wish to meet international visitors. Day hosts do not provide accommodation,
but are an additional resource available to travelers while on the road. As a day host, you may wish
to meet Servas travelers at your home, a park, or at a café to share information on local cultural
activities, good conversation, or possibly a meal. Day hosts may be individuals, families, or peace
and social justice organizations. No money is exchanged between the host and traveler though hosts
are asked to make a $40 tax-deductible donation annually to help defray administrative costs. Download a Host Packet PDF >
Peace Links Program
US Servas wants to encourage more groups working for peace and social
justice to serve as Day Hosts. Non-profits, grassroots organizations,
and public service agencies stand to benefit from Servas travelers
who are interested in their work and travel in the spirit of voluntary
service.If an organization chooses to become a Peace Link they are listed
in the US host list and travelers are invited to experience the work
they do by volunteering for them for an afternoon.Sign up as a day host
and help introduce our travelers to the local community in which you
work! Please contact the Arcata California Office for more details about this special program.
