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Meal plans explained (for hosts)

What each meal plan includes and practical tips for hosting

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Meal plans explained (for hosts)

Meal plans are an important part of setting expectations. You choose which meal plans you offer, and we match booking requests to what you can provide. The agreed meal plan is confirmed at booking, so guests know what to expect and hosts know what they are committing to.

This page sets out the minimum expectations for each meal plan, plus practical suggestions that can help guests settle in and help hosting run smoothly.

Meal plans at a glance

We offer three meal plans for individual bookings. Not every host offers every plan — you can choose what fits your household.

  • Self-catering: no meals provided; guests have access to the kitchen so they can prepare their own meals (within normal household rules).
  • Bed & breakfast: breakfast items are provided (help-yourself style). Kitchen access for cooking is not included as standard.
  • Half board: breakfast items plus an evening meal are included. Kitchen access for cooking is not included as standard, unless agreed in advance.
Tip (flexibility)
Guests often choose hosts based on how comfortable they will feel day-to-day. Being clear and, where you’re able to, flexible (for example allowing light use of a microwave) can help you receive more suitable booking requests.

Quick comparison

FeatureSelf-cateringBed & breakfastHalf board
BreakfastNoYes (help-yourself)Yes (help-yourself)
DinnerNoNoYes (evening meal)
Kitchen access for cookingYes (guest cooks)Not included as standardNot included as standard
Light kitchen use (kettle/microwave)YesOften allowed (household choice)Often allowed (household choice)
Guest responsible forAll mealsLunch + dinnerLunch (and snacks)

Kitchen appliances and safety (recommended)

Appliances and kitchen set-ups can vary from country to country (and even from home to home). A quick 2–3 minute demonstration at check-in can prevent accidents and avoid damage.

  • Show how to boil water safely (for example how to use the electric kettle, and where it should be used).
  • Explain how your hob/oven works (gas, electric or induction) and any household rules about what can and cannot go on the hob.
  • If guests may use them, show how to use the microwave, toaster and any other key appliances.
  • Point out anything that is off-limits (for example certain pans or appliances), and explain the reason briefly.
  • Encourage guests to ask if they are unsure before using an unfamiliar appliance.

Self-catering

Self-catering: guest cooking in kitchen

What the host provides:

  • Kitchen access so the guest can prepare their own meals
  • Some space for the guest’s food (fridge shelf and cupboard space)
  • Clear guidance on rubbish/recycling and kitchen cleaning

Summary:

  • Meals provided: None
  • Use of kitchen: Full use

Kitchen access

Self-catering includes kitchen access for preparing meals. Normal household rules still apply (for example agreed cooking times, keeping noise down, and cleaning up after cooking). If you have restrictions (for example no oven use, or limited cooking times), please tell us so we can match appropriately.

Drinks

Guests should be able to help themselves to tap water at any time. For hot drinks, what you allow will depend on your household rules — many hosts are happy for guests to use the kettle for tea/coffee.

Suggestions that help
  • Show the guest where key items are kept (kettle, microwave, pans, bin bags, cleaning cloths).
  • Agree simple routines early (for example when the kitchen is busiest, and how to store food).
  • If you prefer guests not to eat in bedrooms, explain this gently at check-in (and the reason, such as hygiene/pests).

Example day (self-catering): guest prepares breakfast/lunch/dinner themselves using agreed kitchen access and buys their own food.

Bed & breakfast

Bed and breakfast: continental breakfast spread

What the host provides:

Breakfast items (help-yourself style). Hosts are not expected to serve breakfast, but should show guests where items are stored.

Breakfast should include, as a minimum:

  • Cereal and/or similar breakfast options
  • Bread/toast options with spreads
  • Tea/coffee with milk
  • Fruit juice

Summary:

  • Meals provided: Breakfast (provided, not served)
  • Use of kitchen: None or light use
Good practice: Add fresh fruit and/or yoghurt where you can, and keep breakfast items topped up for the agreed booking.

Breakfast timing

Breakfast should be available at a time that fits the guest’s schedule (for example before morning classes or work). Many hosts set breakfast items out so guests can help themselves. If you leave early for work, explain clearly at check-in where breakfast items are kept and when the guest can access them.

Kitchen access

Kitchen access for cooking is not included as standard for bed & breakfast. Some hosts choose to allow light use for hot drinks and simple snacks (for example kettle, toaster and microwave). If you do not allow light use, please be clear so expectations are set correctly.

Drinks

Guests can help themselves to tap water at any time. Where you allow light kitchen use, guests can usually make hot drinks (tea/coffee) during the day. Juice and milk outside breakfast time are at your discretion.

Example day (bed & breakfast): guest helps themselves to breakfast; buys lunch and dinner out or at school/work; may use agreed light kitchen access for hot drinks and simple snacks.

Half board

Half board: family dinner together

What the host provides:

Breakfast items (as above) plus an evening meal. Guests are not expecting restaurant-style cooking — a normal, home-cooked approach is fine — but meals should be nutritious and balanced.

A balanced evening meal usually includes:

  • A main component (chicken, fish, eggs, beans/lentils, or another protein)
  • Carbohydrate (rice, pasta, potatoes, bread)
  • Vegetables or salad

Summary:

  • Meals provided: Breakfast (provided, not served) and Evening Meal (served)
  • Use of kitchen: No use

Dinner timing and communication

Agree a dinner routine that works for your household and the guest’s schedule. Many households eat in the early evening. If your household eats earlier than the guest can manage, consider whether a plated meal they can reheat later would work, or tell us so we can match guests appropriately.

Guests may occasionally eat out — that is fine — but they should tell you as early as possible so you are not cooking unnecessarily.

Kitchen access

Half board does not include kitchen access for cooking as standard, unless agreed in advance. In practice, some hosts still allow light use for hot drinks and simple snacks (for example kettle or microwave). If you are comfortable offering light use, it can help guests feel more at home. If you are not, please be clear at check-in so there are no misunderstandings.

Drinks

Guests can help themselves to tap water at any time. Where you allow light kitchen use, guests can usually make hot drinks (tea/coffee) during the day. Juice and milk outside breakfast time are at your discretion.

Example day (half board): guest helps themselves to breakfast; buys lunch out; host provides an evening meal; guest may make hot drinks and simple snacks where light use is allowed.

Food allergies and dietary needs

We ask guests about allergies and dietary needs during the booking process and share information we receive. However, details do not always filter through perfectly (for example where bookings involve an agent/school chain or a language barrier). We appreciate hosts’ understanding and flexibility where practical.

Good practice for hosts:
  • Before arrival, review any dietary notes we have provided and tell us promptly if you cannot accommodate them.
  • At check-in, confirm any key allergies/dietary requirements and agree a simple approach for meals/snacks.
  • If a guest raises a new allergy or requirement on arrival, contact London Homestays if you are unsure what is appropriate.

Religious and ethical dietary requirements: Where a guest has told us about requirements (for example halal, kosher, vegetarian or vegan), we ask hosts to make practical efforts to accommodate them. If a requirement would need specialist products or strict separation that you cannot provide, tell us promptly so we can discuss options.

More information: Safety hub

Hosting 16–17-year-olds (meal plan note)

Under-18 placements arranged individually are ages 16–17 only. Meal plan expectations are the same as booked, but younger guests may benefit from clearer routines and check-ins.

Please let us know if you have any concerns:
  • The student is not eating regularly or appears unwell.
  • You become aware of an allergy/dietary need that was not shared in advance.
  • Mealtimes are causing repeated misunderstandings or conflict.

More information: Safety hub and under-18 hosting guidance.

FAQs

Do I have to offer all meal plans?

No. You choose which meal plans you offer. We match booking requests to what you provide.

Do I need to eat with the guest?

Where possible, sharing a meal can help guests feel included — but it isn’t always practical. If you do not usually eat together, setting a clear routine and a friendly welcome is still what matters.

What if a guest wants to change their meal plan after arrival?

Meal plan changes should be arranged through London Homestays so we can confirm what is agreed and ensure payment is handled correctly. If a guest asks about upgrading (for example adding evening meals), ask them to contact our office during office hours.

Can a half-board guest skip dinner sometimes?

Yes. Guests may occasionally eat out. They should tell you as early as possible so you are not preparing food unnecessarily.

What if a guest asks for extra food or snacks?

Meal plans cover the agreed meals only. If a guest wants additional snacks or special items, it is reasonable to agree that they purchase these themselves. Clear communication early helps.

What if I don’t allow any kitchen use?

That is a household choice — but please be clear at booking and at check-in. Guests often prefer homes with some flexibility (especially for simple snacks), so clear expectations help prevent issues.

Where can I update which meal plans I offer?

Approved hosts can update their meal plan options in the host portal. If you need help, contact our team during office hours.

Contact

Office hours: Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm (phone lines 11am–3pm).

Contact methods:

Out-of-hours emergency support is available for genuine emergencies relating to current placements only. Out-of-hours emergency phone numbers are provided at booking confirmation and via our office voicemail. We do not publish emergency numbers on the website.

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In their words...

  • “We have been working with London Homestays since 2011. With their support, we have managed to achieve a high level of customer satisfaction. We strongly recommend London Homestays to anyone who’s looking for quality, reliability and exceptional customer service.”

    Alex Fernandes, Accommodation & Visa Compliance Manager, Malvern House London

  • “Having worked with them since 2013, I can state that London Homestays have always taken care to match our students with suitable host families. They have a very friendly yet professional approach to their work. Our students have enjoyed staying at their homestays. Overall, students say that their host families are attentive and welcoming.”

    Carl Roberton, Principal, Stafford House School of English

  • “We at Burlington School have worked with London Homestays since 2014, and I professionally know the team since 2009 when I worked for another company in the education and accommodation industry. Having had the opportunity to work with London Homestays since the company started operations in London, all of the enquiries have been dealt with in a dedicated and timely manner, the team members are customer-oriented and always provide an exceptional accommodation experience to our students. I have no hesitation to recommend London Homestays as excellent accommodation providers and business partners.”

    Eliane Tomasi, Accommodation & Welfare Officer, Burlington School

  • “We have placed students with London Homestays for over ten years. The host families suit what our students actually need, and when something comes up during the stay, it gets sorted quickly rather than passed between people. They make everything very easy, with detailed host profiles showing transport links to our school, and a thorough matching process. Our office always knows where a student is and who to call. Happy to recommend.”

    Ewa Pietreniuk, Head of Partnerships, Speak Up London

  • “We partnered with London Homestays to help us verify and assess homestay hosts we were recruiting for our international students in Glasgow. Their expertise in vetting hosts to British Council standards gave us real confidence in the quality and safety of the accommodation we were able to offer. The team were professional, responsive and a pleasure to work with throughout. We would highly recommend London Homestays to other colleges and universities looking for a knowledgeable and reliable accommodation partner.”

    Lucia Murray-Rapuano, Global Skills Development Manager, City of Glasgow College

  • “Cooperation with London Homestays is always great! We highly appreciate proactive approach and effort to ensure the best possible services for our groups. We always had a great clean accommodation, friendly family and smart local organisers. Students of our groups were satisfied and they enjoyed staying in London very much. We would like to recommend this agency. The whole team is very kind.”

    Miroslava Foltýnová, Owner, CK Bus Tours.

  • “We offer internships in London to European students and looked for a reliable partner to provide accommodation to our candidates. We have been very happy with the services provided by London Homestays, as have our candidates, as they have always received quickly information on families, the possibility to book a room in a short delay and also a good quality of families. I would recommend without any doubt this agency. The team is very professional, efficient and friendly :). We hope to send new trainees soon!”

    Stéphanie Frassanito, Program Manager, Work Overseas

  • “Our school from the Czech Republic has had great experiences with London Homestays. The host families were generally welcoming, kind, and accommodating. The service provided by the coordinator Kate O’Connor and other admin staff is second to none.”

    Kate Powers, Vice Principal for English Studies, Sunny Canadian International School

  • It was an amazing experience, I’ve found a new home where I feel as comfortable as I do in my own home!

    Laura, student from France: Homestay booking in Zone 2

  • “When my children went off to university and got married, my husband and I were empty nesters rattling around. We have an empty bedroom and I quite enjoy keeping it fresh for new students who come to stay with us both short and long term. Invariably, they show us a lot of respect. Coming to London to study or to work as interns is a big adventure for them and I enjoy settling them in and seeing them flourish. Some return or recommend to their friends to come and stay with us. London Homestays are a great organisation to deal with – good at communicating and highly ethical.”

    Cathy, Homestay host in Colindale, London

  • “My first student has just left to return home and I have thoroughly enjoyed hosting her. It has been a lovely experience for me to help her with her English and learn about her Japanese culture.

    I was nervous and apprehensive at first but it was so worthwhile and I look forward to continue hosting in the future. It has given me a boost knowing that I can give someone an opportunity that they may not have been able to afford without using London Homestays”

    Audrey, Homestay host in Tooting, London

  • My homestay host Debra transformed my stay into the most amazing experience of my whole life!

    Florian, student from Belgium: Homestay booking in Zone 3

  • “London Homestays has been an excellent accommodation partner for our students. The team is always helpful, responsive and highly professional. They consistently match students with the right hosts based on individual requirements, ensuring a positive and comfortable homestay experience.”

    Ellie Fordham, Student Services Manager, Stafford House

  • My homestay host is a lovely lady, she was very helpful and genuine. London Homestays offer an excellent, fast service and quality accommodation. I would definitely recommend to my friends!

    Shelaine, student from Canada: Homestay booking in Zone 2

  • Daphne was a really nice and welcoming host, I really enjoyed my stay with her and her family. Thank you London Homestays for connecting me with her!

    Ben, researcher from USA: Superior homestay booking

  • My stay with my host family makes my time at UK much more fun and exciting! Life is happening!

    Bao, student from China: Homestay booking in Zone 4+

  • “Really, we are very happy with our room at the residence. James in the residences team has helped us with all aspects of our booking and we would like to say, big thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”

    Dmitriy and Maria, two students from Russia: Residence booking

  • “I felt completely at ease and very comfortable with my host! She was really kind…many thanks!”

    Doris, student from Italy: Superior homestay in Zone 2

  • “Shanghai Chelsea International Consulting (SCIC) has worked with Home from Home many times and they have provided a very professional service.”

    Chan Sen, Director at Shanghai Chelsea International Consulting

  • “I highly recommend London Homestays! We have been working with them for a while now, and their professionalism and the quality of their homestays have always been exceptional. One of the homestays we collaborated with was so impressive that we even shared it on our YouTube channel to give our students a glimpse of the warm and welcoming environment they can expect. Thank you, London Homestays, for providing such amazing services. We look forward to continuing our partnership!”

    Tuba Akca, Owner at Tubik Academy

  • The London Homestays portal is amazing. You can manage availability, update photos, and see when you’ve been paid — something I’m always chasing the other agencies. Can’t recommend it highly enough!

    Sharon, host in Finchley

  • “I have been a host for London Homestays for over 8 years. The team is professional, friendly and always quick to respond. They do a great job matching students with hosts and making the whole process smooth and straightforward. The students I’ve hosted have been respectful and lovely to have in my home. I would happily recommend London Homestays to anyone considering becoming a host.”

    Sarah-Jayne, Walthamstow — host since 2018

  • “London Homestays are very pleasant and put you at ease.”

    Pat & Clyde, hosts in Tooting, London

  • “The team — especially James and Ellie — were incredibly responsive, patient and kind. They answered all my questions and checked with hosts about everything from commute times to where I’d store my bicycle. They even sent a Chinese translation of their first email. I felt truly welcomed.”

    Ruoxi, student from China