Language exchange in Bergamo, Italy

Details

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  Description

  I live in a quiet residential area about 5–6 km from the centre of Bergamo, in Northern Italy. I like the balance here: it is peaceful and relaxed, but Bergamo is close enough to enjoy its historic centre, cafés, shops and cultural life.
  Bergamo is a beautiful city, especially the old upper town, Città Alta, with its medieval streets, squares and views. The area is also well placed for visiting Milan, the lakes and the mountains, so there are many possibilities for day trips and exploring Northern Italy.
  I live on my own and I am very independent. I am 75 years old and still work as a private English teacher. I enjoy languages, conversation and meeting people from different countries, and this cultural exchange is something I am genuinely looking forward to.
  My five-year-old granddaughter does not live with me, but she often spends time at my home.
  
  She is an important part of my life, and I would love her to have natural and enjoyable contact with English and Russian through games, stories, drawing, songs and everyday conversation.
  The person staying with me would have a private room and plenty of free time. I hope she would feel comfortable, welcome and free to enjoy both our shared time and her own experience of Italy.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Language practice

  Light gardening

  Babysitting and creative play

  Help around the house
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  Interests

  

  Movies & TV

  

  Music

  

  Culture

  

  Gardening
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  I would be happy to include my guest in some aspects of my everyday life, depending on her interests. This could include meals together, local walks, visits to Bergamo, meeting friends or family, and spending time with my granddaughter when she is visiting. I would also be glad to suggest places where she can experience daily life in the area.
  As an English teacher, I can help with language learning and conversation, and I would also be very happy to support someone who is learning Italian. I can share my knowledge of the local area, Italian culture and everyday life, and I enjoy talking about books, languages and different ways of living.
  By hosting someone from another country, I hope to learn more about her culture, habits, ideas and experiences. I am especially interested in the small differences of everyday life: language, food, family traditions, education and social customs.
  For me, hosting is not only about receiving help. It is mainly an opportunity for cultural exchange, conversation and discovering another perspective on the world.

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  Projects involving children

  This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

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  Help

  I am looking for someone who can help mainly in two ways: communicating with me in her native language, preferably Russian and giving me a little help with light household tasks.I have a five-year-old granddaughter who sometimes visits, and she could benefit from these cultural experiences too.
  
  The aim is for her to enjoy hearing and using foreign languages in a relaxed way and mostly to become an open minded person, curious about different cultures and people.
  Around the house, I would appreciate help with simple everyday tasks such as tidying the kitchen, helping after meals, occasional light cleaning and keeping shared spaces tidy.
  The total commitment would be around 12 hours a week, usually spread over 4 days. I would like the schedule to stay flexible and to be discussed together.
  
  I am not looking for personal care or assistance. I am independent and still work as a private English teacher. For me, the most important part of this arrangement is the cultural exchange, sharing daily life and getting to know someone from another country.

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  Spanish: Intermediate
  French: Intermediate
  Russian: Intermediate

  This host offers a language exchange
  This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
  You can contact them directly for more information.
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  Accommodation

  You will have your own private room in my home, with space for your clothes and personal belongings.
  I provide breakfast and dinner, and you are welcome to use the kitchen to prepare your own lunch or snacks during the day.
  The house is in a quiet residential area about 5–6 km from Bergamo city centre. Public transport is available, and I will be happy to explain the easiest ways to get around and reach the centre.
  You will have plenty of privacy and free time, and I would like you to feel comfortable and at home during your stay.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  One

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