Gifting can be a tricky thing. You don’t want to impose your taste on someone else but, at same time you want them to learn a little bit about you from the gift you give.

We’ve been gifted everything from silk scarves to oven mitts but, the favourite in our house is always food! When a guest brings you a treat from overseas it sparks imagination, conversation and taste buds!

You don’t need to go to great effort. Our kids have been super excited with supermarket crisps and lollies, just as much as they have with the fantastic boxed treat – Tokyo Banana. If you’re coming from Spain consider bringing tinned mackerel, Italy – coffee, India – spices. Whatever it is, the gift of food is bound to be well received!

Remember to always check customs restrictions. Breaches of restrictions can result in the item being confiscated and fines imposed. Not to mention the disappointment of then turning up to your homestay accommodation empty handed.