14. An American friend has invited you to visit his family. You've never been to an American's home before, what should you do? The answer is: when you're the guest, you should just make yourself at home. That's American hospitality (好客)
American hospitality begins at home 一 especially about food. Most Americans agree that good home cooking beats restaurant food. When you are invited for a meal, you might ask,“Can I bring anything” The host will answer,“No, just yourself.” For most informal (非正式的) dinners, you can wear any comfortable clothes you like. Arrive on time, or call to tell your hosts if you can't. During the dinner talk guests will often praise the hostess (女主人) for the wonderful meal. Of course. the biggest praise is to eat lots of food!
When you' ve had enough. you might offer to clean the table or wash the dishes.But since you're he guest, your hosts may not let you. Instead, they may invite everyone to move to the living room for dessert with tea or coffee. There the hosts and the guests may continue to have a talk.After about an hour's talk, it's time for you to leave.
If you come to an American's home, you'd better let the hosts know ahead of time unless you're very close friends. especially when you want to stay tor a few days.Here's a good rule for guests:Short stays are best.Even relatives,for example,their aunts, uncles or cousins,don't usually stay for several weeks every time.While you 're staying with an American family,try to keep your living area clean and tidy.Your host family will thank you for your consideration. And they may even invite you back!
Most Americans consider themselves hospitable people. and they are proud of making guests happy.