Frequently Asked Questions

Why should we book with EST?

We are a specialist tour operator with over 30 years' experience in organising homestays and we offer a personal and efficient service to teachers arranging study tours. We provide a comprehensive service for all your requirements and help plan a programme tailored to the needs of your students. Our aim is to make their stay as enjoyable and rewarding as possible.

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Why stay with families instead of going to an hotel?

It gives students a unique opportunity to experience family life in the UK. After a busy schedule of excursions, they can spend time with their hosts and practise their english while discussing the day's activities. Young pupils will feel more comfortable in a home environment than in an impersonal hotel.

It also gives the opportunity for teachers to relax in the evening, either by staying with their host family or by going out if they wish.

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How do we book?

Please give us the dates of the trip, the approximate number of students and adults and the chosen location and we will check availability. An option can be placed in the centre of your choice to give you time to plan the trip. When confirmed, a small deposit might be required to secure the booking but the balance will only be due two weeks before departure.

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Is it possible to go to more than one centre?

Yes, some groups prefer to split their stay between a London centre and a country centre. There is usually an additional charge for this facility.

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Can you arrange coach travel in the UK?

School groups normally come with a coach booked in their own country but some groups arrive by plane and we can arrange a local coach for them.

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How do we arrange the programme?

We can help you organise your programme. If we book your ferry/eurotunnel crossings we will ask you what times you require. We can then reserve as many or as few visits as you wish or simply provide advice on the attractions on offer. We can also arrange theatre tickets (often at discounted price), travelcards, restaurant meals etc.

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When do we receive the names and addresses of the host families?

We will ask you for the breakdown of your group as well as details of medical problems/special diets at least one month before departure.

The local organiser will provide the family list around 10 days before departure (students are normally placed 2-4 per family) and you will then be able to allocate the students. The meeting place and times of arrival and departure each day will also be confirmed.

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What can be expected from the families?

The host families are visited by the local organiser to ensure that they offer a comfortable environment for the students. They provide full-board accommodation (breakfast, packed lunch and evening meal) and usually receive between 2 and 4 students. They collect their guests on the first evening and return them to the meeting point on the last morning. Many collect and return during their stay but, if they are unable to do so, will always ensure that pupils know their way to the coach park.

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What happens when we arrive?

You are normally expected on the first night around 18h30-19h00 (a map showing the meeting point will be sent in advance as well as the contact details of the local organiser). On subsequent days the normal departure and arrival times are 08h30 and 19h00 but you will be informed of any local variations.

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Can we leave earlier or return later than normal?

Only if it has been prearranged and the local organiser and families have agreed. Some groups like to go to the theatre in the evening and in this case they are provided with an extra packed meal instead of the evening meal.

In case of unforeseen delay, please contact the local organiser so the families can be informed.

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Who do we contact if help is needed when we are in the UK?

Please contact your local organiser who will help you – he/she will meet you every morning and every evening at the meeting point and can answer any queries. You can also contact our office for further assistance.

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Picture: The Cross
Picture: Teenage Kids Jumping in the air