Autumn Host Families Meeting 2025

Autumn Host Families Meeting 2025
Veronika Ratonyi
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After the arrival and adjustment period of the exchange students, we organize an annual gathering of host families — an ideal opportunity to share new experiences, expectations, and plans for the future. This year, we decided to host our autumn gatherings in two locations — Prague and Ostrava — so that every family could choose the one most convenient for them. Both cities offered a friendly atmosphere that encouraged open sharing and strengthened the sense of community among families. Shared experiences and meeting new faces created beautiful memories for everyone to take home. 

Ostrava – Flavors, Conversations, and Autumn Comfort 

The Ostrava gathering took place on Saturday, October 11, as part of the popular Burger Fest. Burgers of all kinds were the main attraction — from classic versions to creative combinations that delighted everyone’s taste buds. 

The festival’s warm atmosphere, the smell of grilled food, and the informal setting created the perfect backdrop for sharing first impressions from the exchange program. Discussions covered not only the joys but also the challenges that hosting brings. We talked about the difficulties of Czech language, cultural differences, and the everyday surprises that come with having a guest from another country. 

The day ended in a cozy café, where over coffee, tea, and desserts we continued to chat about our experiences. It turned out that even families from the same city can have very different customs, which led to many interesting and inspiring conversations.  

setkání ostravahf ostrava

Prague – History Within Reach 

The Prague group met on October 12 at 10:30 a.m. at the Old Town Square. We waited together for the famous Astronomical Clock to strike and then set off on a walk through historic Prague. Our route led past the Estates Theatre, the Cubist lamp, and the Máj department store, where we admired the iconic butterflies by David Černý. 

After a delicious traditional Czech lunch at the historic U Medvídků restaurant and brewery (dating back to 1438 and once frequented by Jaroslav Hašek), we continued toward the National Theatre. From the riverbank, we enjoyed views of Petřín Hill and Hradčany before crossing Charles Bridge to the Lesser Town. We climbed up Nerudova Street to Prague Castle, where we said our goodbyes — each of us heading home with new memories and friendships. 

praha hf 25hf praha 25

What’s Next 

We’re already looking forward to our next gatherings in December! 
In Prague, we’ll meet on December 7, when we’ll go ice skating, visit the Christmas markets, and warm up with mulled wine. 
A week later, on December 13, we’ll meet in Olomouc to enjoy the festive atmosphere at the local Christmas markets together.