When I stay for a long time, how can I help the family? First of all, you will want to do as much as you

If I’m staying overnight, is there anything I should keep in mind? We have elsewhere discussed taking gifts to a home when you are spending

When is a good time to go home? After dinner, you will probably be offered tea and coffee. Whether you have this at the table

Should I offer to help wash dishes after dinner? When there is a large group of guests and you are not really close friends with

If I’m staying overnight, is there anything I should keep in mind? The general rule is that when the hostess of a dinner raises her

Are there any topics I should avoid? It is acceptable to discuss virtually any topic––the weather, sports, news events, fashion, books, art exhibits, travel, even

How many people are there in my family? As your conversation continues, the subject of family may arise and you may be asked, “How many

What is “small talk” and how can I master it? “Small talk” ––casual conversation that is light safe and impersonal in content––is an essential component

How can I “break the ice”? Americans are generally quite willing to strike up a conversation with complete strangers at the bus stop, on a

What am I supposed to do at a “cocktail party”? Cocktail parties are typical American gatherings, usually starting at 5:00 p.m. or so, to which

Should I arrive at a party late? Some say that it is “fashionable” to arrive late at a party, but do not believe them. If

What should I take when I stay for a long time? Usually the people who stay more than one or two nights in someone else’s

What gifts are appropriate when staying overnight? If you are invited to stay overnight at a friend’s house, you should make it clear when and

What is “B.Y.O.B.”? University students and other young people like to have parties without spending a lot of money. One way to do this is

What is a “housewarming”? Shortly after moving into a new house, the owners may have a “housewarming” party. They want to show their new residence