Staying with Family and Friends Abroad: The Best Nigerian Guide

Staying with family and friends abroad is every Nigerian’s way of saving costs while enjoying home vibes. Why pay for a hotel when your aunt has a spare room or your childhood friend has been shouting, “Come and visit me!” for years?

But let’s be real; staying with people comes with its dynamics. You don’t want to overstay your welcome or end up in awkward situations. So, whether you’re crashing for a weekend in London or a month in Houston, I have curated below tips on how to be a superstar guest while abroad.

Ways of Staying with Family and Friends

1. Plan Ahead: Don’t “Surprise” Them

Nigerians love surprises, but trust me, your cousin in Canada doesn’t want to open the door and see you with two suitcases and a carry-on. Always let your host know well in advance that you are coming.

• Discuss Dates: Be clear about how long you will stay. “Just for a while” is too vague. It could mean two days or two months!
• Confirm the Space: Ask if they have enough room to host you. A pull-out couch is not the same as a guest room, so manage your expectations.
• Talk About Plans: Are you coming for leisure, business, or a mix of both? This helps them know what to expect.

Pro Tip: Don’t assume they will pick you up from the airport. Arrange your own transportation unless they offer.

2. Bring Gifts: It is the Nigerian Way

In Nigerian culture, showing up empty-handed is almost an insult. The same applies abroad. Even if your host says, “Just bring yourself!” don’t listen; show up with something thoughtful.

• Food Items: Pack Nigerian treats they miss, like suya spice, chin chin, or groundnut. If you are visiting a fellow Nigerian abroad, you can’t go wrong with dry pepper or crayfish.
• Local Souvenirs: A small piece of home, like Ankara fabric, a carved figurine, or even Nigerian snacks, can go a long way.
• Something Personal: If they have kids, bring a small toy. If they love cooking, get them a cookbook or kitchen tool.

Pro Tip: Check customs regulations before packing food to avoid getting stuck at the airport like your dried fish.

3. Respect Their Space and Routine

Abroad, everyone has their own schedule, and your host might not be as relaxed as your Nigerian auntie back home. Show respect for their lifestyle and boundaries. Hence, when staying with family and friends, you must show respect.

• Ask About Rules: Find out if there are house rules, like quiet hours or restricted areas.
• Be Tidy: Keep your room or sleeping area clean. No one wants to pick up after you.
• Bathroom Etiquette: Share the bathroom? Keep it clean after use, and don’t spend hours there like you are hosting a spa session.

Pro Tip: Don’t treat their home like your village compound. If they say “no shoes indoors,” don’t argue.

4. Contribute: Don’t Be a Freeloader

Your host is saving you money, but that doesn’t mean you should act like you are at a free Airbnb. Contribute in small but meaningful ways.

• Groceries: Offer to buy groceries or pay for a meal. If you can cook, whip up some Nigerian dishes. They will love it!
• Utilities: Electricity and water bills don’t pay themselves. Ask if you can chip in, especially for longer stays.
• Help Out: Offer to do chores like washing dishes or tidying up shared spaces.

Pro Tip: If they have kids, helping with babysitting can earn you VIP guest status. This is a way of respectfully staying with family and friends.

5. Be Independent: Don’t Cling

Your host has a life. They probably work, study, or both. Don’t expect them to be your personal tour guide or entertainment committee.

• Explore on Your Own: Use Google Maps, public transport, or apps like Uber to get around.
• Plan Activities: Do your research and create your itinerary.
• Don’t Expect Full-Time Attention: If they offer to show you around, great! If not, don’t guilt-trip them.

Pro Tip: If you are staying with family and friends, avoid saying, “I’m bored.” It is not their job to entertain you.

Learn how to manage your finances abroad with these tips.

6. Avoid Overstaying Your Welcome

A fine line is between being a welcome guest and someone they wish would leave. Don’t cross it.

• Stick to Your Dates: If you said one week, don’t turn it into three.
• Read the Room: If your host starts asking, “So, when are you leaving?” they’re probably ready for their space back.
• Leave Gracefully: When it is time to go, thank them sincerely and leave the space as you found it – or better.

Pro Tip: If you are staying long, consider booking a hotel or Airbnb for part of the trip to give them breathing room.

7. Be Grateful: Show Appreciation

Gratitude goes a long way, especially when someone opens their home to you.

• Say Thank You: Don’t just say it; mean it. A heartfelt “Thank you for hosting me” makes all the difference.
• Leave a Note or Gift: A small thank-you card or token of appreciation is a lovely gesture.
• Stay in Touch: After you leave, check in occasionally. Don’t ghost them until your next trip.

Pro Tip: Mention their hospitality on social media (if they are okay with it). A little public praise can make them feel appreciated.

8. Manage Cultural Differences

If your host is not Nigerian or hasn’t been home in years, there might be cultural clashes.

• Adjust Your Volume: Nigerians are loud, but not everyone appreciates our energy.
• Food Preferences: Don’t expect them to stock egusi or pounded yam. Be open to trying new things.
• Time Management: Abroad, time is money. Respect schedules and be punctual.

Pro Tip: Teach them about Nigeria! Share your culture in a way that sparks curiosity, not confusion.

9. Know When to Say No

Sometimes, staying with family and friends can get tricky. If the vibe feels off or they are struggling to accommodate you, consider other options. Your comfort and theirs are equally important.

Staying with family and friends while abroad is a blessing when done right. Be the kind of guest they will want to host again, not the one they will warn others about. You can create lasting memories and strengthen bonds across borders with thoughtful planning, a little independence, and plenty of gratitude. Remember, being a Nigerian traveler is about showing love, sharing culture, and leaving a positive impression. Safe travels!

Clare Aririahu

Welcome to my world! 🌟 I’m Clare, the proud founder of lovemeandtour.com website. I’m passionate about connecting people and helping them find love. Join me on this exciting journey and let’s spread love together! 🌟 #LoveMe #Travel #Passionate