Forthcoming visits are publicised in our newsletters and sometimes in the local press. Anyone who lives in or near Romsey is welcome to take part, on the basis that they then offer hospitality in return. It is sometimes possible to include people who are unable to offer accommodation.

On all exchanges accommodation is provided in family houses as a guest of the family. The debt is repaid when we offer the hospitality of our own homes. Accommodation can be provided on very much an "ad hoc" basis - so don't feel that you need to offer a guest suite to take in visitors. Twinning operates on the principle that everyone is expected to "muck in and make do".

Remember that the people we exchange with want to offer their hospitality because they want to be friendly and learn something about us and about England. You all begin from a sympathetic starting point. There is the added bonus of conversation, which is usually a mix of English and French or German, helped along by sign language, gestures and a lot of laughing.

On most visits there are a mixture of communal and individual activities. At some point in the weekend there is normally a short formal welcome, followed by an informal get-together. Usually an optional walk or outing is arranged. On visits to Romsey, each host is provided with a list of all the other hosts taking part, as well as a list of all the visitors, and a guide time-table of what is planned for the weekend. Families can choose for themselves whether to join in the communal activities or make their own plans for entertaining their guests.

Twinning enables people to make friends and to enjoy the very best of French and German hospitality. They experience other European lifestyles and learn about their problems at first hand. Do come and join us.