Every home has its own way of opening the door. Curious to see what that looks like across cultures, continents, and communities, we asked you – our readers around the world – to show us how you host. And then something wonderful happened: we were inundated with replies.
What arrived wasn’t just a stack of photos, but a surge of warm, funny, inventive, deeply heartfelt stories. You told us about dinners that stretch late into the night, rituals passed down through generations, tiny flats transformed into magical spaces and gatherings that exist purely to spark connection or joy. You shared hospitality as heritage, as artistry, as instinct – and as love. Taken together, your stories reveal something resounding: hosting isn’t a small domestic act, it’s a global pulse. A reminder that no matter where we live, we all find meaning in feeding one another, welcoming strangers and creating moments people remember inside our homes.
Here, in your own words, is the proof – a vibrant, generous, beautiful snapshot of how the world welcomes people in...
Barkin, 30, Istanbul, Turkey
“I split my life between Istanbul and Dubai. In Istanbul, my home has a glass ceiling, and my dining table sits right under it – so when we dine, it feels like we’re eating under the Galata Tower, with the Bosphorus shining on the other side. That atmosphere naturally makes hosting feel magical. I always expect the unexpected when I host – the extra +1, the last-minute surprise. And yes, breaking a glass doesn’t bother me; in our culture, it’s believed to take the bad energy away.”
Ashia, 35, Chicago, US
“I always offer guests a pair of home slippers. It’s a small touch that instantly makes people feel more comfortable and at ease. Midwest hospitality is real here in Chicago; you feel it in how people look out for each other, and I try to bring that same warmth and energy into my home. I also love that we have four true seasons here. Each one feels like its own chapter. I lean into that by hosting around the seasons, whether it’s a cosy winter dinner or a fresh, light summer spread.”
Demilade, 30, Lagos, Nigeria
“I run a social club called My Friend's House where I host dinner parties, games nights and other intimate events to create an environment for people to be free, safe and entertained. My vision is ‘when you want to be at home but not in your own home’. In line with that tagline, guests can show up exactly as they are. If they'd rather be quiet and enjoy the chaos around them, that’s fine. If they want to be the centre of attention? Also welcome. Conversations are loud and drinks are flowing until the last person is ready to go home – even if that’s at 4am!”
Lula, 25, Baghdad, Iraq
“I always give my guests the safest place on earth to talk about anything their heart desires, all their happy moments, all their demons. Everything is welcome at my house.”
Ashley & DK, London, UK
"Welcoming people into your environment can be a great experiment. We always try to invite guests who may not be familiar with each other already, but who we think could potentially get along. It's a gamble, but we love it when people we introduce end up being good friends.”
Gigi, 31 Madrid, Spain
“Hosting changed my life. As the world was recovering from the pandemic and my generation was quietly deleting dating apps, I realised that the dinners I loved creating for friends and family might actually be what Madrid was missing: a place to gather, disconnect from our phones and connect with like-minded people over good food, and even better wine. So I launched the Second Sunday Supper Club and have since welcomed over 500 guests. In Spain, it’s all about the art of the Spanish “sobremesa”, where a dinner party isn’t truly a success unless everyone stays around the table long after dessert, chatting, laughing and digesting. It’s the unhurried hours after the meal, as the candles burn out and the conversation continues, that make hosting here so special.”
Natalia, 20, Tbilisi, Georgia
“In Georgia there's a saying, “A guest is from god,” meaning that when someone visits a Georgian house, you must show them great hospitality and respect. In old times, a guest held the highest honour – regardless of background. The head of the house would give them the best seat, prepare the finest meal and wine, and make sure they felt at home. Because of this, hosting feels like it’s in my DNA, and while I don’t follow strict rules, I always keep a small item to remember the night."
Laiba, 18, Karachi, Pakistan
“Hosting is a chance to weave together delicious dishes, meaningful conversations and light-hearted humour. Our house is the shrine, where Saturday gatherings are as religious as a prayer summoned. My immediate family members gather around the round table, during the hi tea hours. My mum and I meticulously adorn the table with pastries, samosas, chickpea salad, tea and add a fresh sprint of lavender to freshen the room."
Tiarra, 28, Manila, Philippines
"Information is key! Before hosting, I ask guests everything: what’s their zodiac sign? Do they have allergies? Do they have a nickname? Are they looking to make friends? Filipino culture is all about hospitality; the way we welcome people into our homes is always warm and friendly. Our community is always vibrant, so I don’t have a hard time wrangling people together. My one rule? Don’t get drunk! My mind needs to be sharp.”
Marijke, 35, Santa Fe, New Mexico
“I always set an intention for each gathering. It might be a theme, a question, or a feeling, but that sense of purpose invites everyone to get curious, playful, and present with what unfolds. One of my favourites was the night I didn’t give anyone utensils. The theme was elevated junk food, and everyone had to eat with their hands. At first there was shock, then giggles, then full-blown delight."
Clementine, 29, London, UK
“Living in Northeast London means I'm lucky to have access to different specialty shops when picking up supplies for hosting, from piping hot Middle Eastern flatbreads to the best possible guanciale and pecorino by weight at the Italian deli, plus every spice imaginable from the Turkish supermarket. I always set the table the night before, or the morning of. It means no matter how up against the clock you are in the kitchen, your space is prepped.”
Alba, 22, Prishtina, Kosovo
“Hosting is a form of art. I love bringing people together, creating a warm atmosphere, and expressing myself through food. I got it from my mom; she makes the best food – and I love sharing her recipes with my guests.”
Jimena, 20, Lima, Peru
“I always make sure that the people I invite know at least one other person. Peruvian food is exquisite – and that has a big influence, because we like to eat well! I am also an architect, so I also love to create spaces that feel good!"
Paddy, 28, Los Angeles, US
“As soon as my guests arrive, I make sure there’s something for them to do: cocktails or wine ready to pour, and a charcuterie board already set up. It’s the perfect way for people to ease in, loosen up and start chatting naturally. Most of us in LA are in apartments, so it becomes about creating fun, intimate moments in a small space. Plus, LA is full of cinephiles (a pretentious way to say “people who love movies”), so a lot of my hosting revolves around films.”
Maria, 33, Belgrade, Serbia
“Serbia's got a huge Russian-speaking community now – people who left because of the war in Ukraine. They˘’re pretty different from the locals but I try to throw events that get these groups mixing, bringing them together. Not always simple, but I think it’s working.”
Júlia, 30, São Paulo, Brazil
“Hosting is a love language. It’s the act of showing people how much you value their presence. It means making them feel seen, heard, comfortable, welcome and truly cared for. My Brazilian soul completely shapes how I host – if we invite you into our home, you’re meant to feel at home. That means good food, a cosy and intentional space, attention to every detail (cleaning, organising, scent, ambience) and a focus on all the senses."
Erica, 34, New York, US
“Being from a Mexican American family, hospitality is a big part of our culture. My Grandma and Mom are stellar hosts – Grandma always has homemade barbacoa in the fridge, her famous beans on the stove, or a pot of coffee ready for anyone who's coming over. My mom ingrained in me to always offer food or drinks – and that their comfort is priority. I love doing the same for friends. I always make sure guest have a drink in hand! Whether that's water, wine or a homemade gin martini."
Mathilde, 29, Marseille, France
“Hosting is an act of care, a way of creating a soft landing for people. My coastal roots shape my hosting – Maison Colombine, a project where I bring people together around intimate, art-driven dinners and curated moments of connection is named after my family home by the sea. There’s always a touch of that softness, that salty breeze, in the way I host.”
Arina, 20, Dublin, Ireland
“Coming from an immigrant family, you learn that hosting is a way to belong. My family and I are from Moldova. We call Ireland our home now but when you are abroad, hosting is a way to make others feel, taste, smell a piece of home. Our Christmas table, like this one, tells a lot of stories – it's an amalgamation of hard work, embracing your roots, dedication and care. Whenever I host, I always get out the ‘nice’ things – never let them sit in the press gathering dust till the best before date. The nicely packaged Limoncello brought from a holiday in Italy, the exotically shaped chocolate from Valentine’s Day or expensive cheese from the Christmas Market – it all gets shared with guests.”
Hilaria, 25, Lomé, Africa-Togo
“As a chef, I cook to nourish, but also to connect. A successful dinner is one that brings people closer to the menu ingredients, and closer to each other. To make guests feel at home, I personalise everything: name cards, non-alcoholic options – those subtle adjustments to individual tastes and rhythms. My aim is for them to feel completely taken care of – I want them to let go and enjoy the moment, knowing every detail was prepared with them in mind.”
Faye, 25, London
“Being Iraqi, hosting and food is the absolute cornerstone of our culture. We have a specific word in Arabic that has no direct translation – 3azeema – but roughly means a gathering of loved ones centered around food as a labour of love. If I could host anyone, it would be my bibi (grandma). For 25 years she has indeed laboured for hours in the kitchen for each family gathering, showing her love through hospitality – and incredible food spreads. I’d make a large feast of delicious homemade food like this homemade hummus, homemade moutabal and homemade musakhan (national dish of Palestine) without her having to lift a finger. It's important to give back to those who have hosted you for years, too.”
Megan, 23, Washington DC, US
“Whether it be a grand, Pinterest-inspired potluck or a lazy wine night with the girls in our sweatpants, hosting has never meant anything fancy to me – as long as there's finger foods, booze, and something to talk about, it's a good time. My Vietnamese culture (and my mom) heavily influence the way I host, basically meaning everyone takes off their shoes when they arrive, and leaves with their belly full! Cooking and sharing dishes made from scratch is my love language because that's just how my mom showed her love to me growing up. She always gives me the last bite, as if to say this is what my heart looks like. I want my friends to feel the same when they come to my place.”
Amelia, 35, Girona, Spain
“Living in the countryside gives me an amazing outside space to be able to host. The seasons also provide a different setting for different times of the year, as well as different ingredients that I can forage from the garden and nearby woods. And while I always aim to wear something nice, I always end up sitting down in an apron.”
Thayadora, 28, Toronto, Canada
“Hosting isn't just opening your doors, it's opening your heart. Sharing food with loved ones is an act of connection, a silent language of care, and the foundation of shared memory. As a Greek, it's just at the core of who I am. The act of "filotimo" is stitched into my being. It encompasses values like empathy, compassion, generosity and dignity – it means treating everyone like family. When I host, I always have a theme - whether it's an East Coast Oyster Night, or a Heatwave BBQ, it provides a narrative. It allows me to curate the music, lighting, decor and most importantly, the menu, to create an intentional space.”
Sebastian, 25, Montevideo, Uruguay
“Here in Uruguay it’s all about sharing. We have a traditional drink called “Mate” that’s always with us, and we don’t drink it alone. It’s always shared over a conversation. Whenever I host, I always make every guest feel seen – whether it’s remembering how they take their coffee or simply playing music they like in the background. To me, true hosting is about thoughtfulness.”
Kristl, 44, Phoenix, Arizona, United States
“I always send a formal, paper invitation – and never in a white envelope; I want my guests to instantly feel like something fun is happening. Generally, I try to keep the event loose and let the magic happen on its own. I don't ever force the issue in the name of The Party. Do I wish for everyone to sing at least one song at a karaoke party? Abso-freakin-lutely. Do I make anyone sing at least one song at a karaoke party? I do not.”
Fisayo, 28, Lagos, Nigeria
"For me, hosting is a way to reclaim our time and our innate creative lives. Sometimes months pass before you can just chill and have meaningful conversations with your friends and new people. I started @arewa_collective to intentionally create alternative moments of connection, creativity and reflection. Lagos is a beautiful city but sometimes we get comfortable with what we have instead of exploring what we can create. It’s also hustle central so when I think of hosting, I prefer to create an environment where people can really slow down. I recently hosted a Silent Book Party – a quiet and serene environment for us to really connect with ourselves and others. And I make guests feel at home by treating each new person as if we're already friends.”
Joyce, 26, Beirut, Lebanon
“The way I host is profoundly shaped by my culture, where hospitality is a spiritual tradition. My living room functions as the heart of the home and is always prepared for company – and I keep an abundance of food and drink in anticipation of the unexpected guests. The table can be ready in a matter of minutes, reflecting a genuine desire to treat my visitors like immediate family – and special dishes and cutlery are reserved exclusively for hosting.”
Bavina, 27 Toronto, Canada
“Living in Toronto – one of the world’s most multicultural cities, has shaped my hosting in the best way. Growing up in the east end meant being surrounded by every kind of cuisine and culture, which completely expanded my palate. I love bringing that diversity into my dinner parties with a mix of global flavours, and as a Tamil-Canadian, you can always expect Tamil classics in the spread (mutton rolls are non-negotiable!). And I always add little personalised touches, whether it’s custom name cards at each seat or planning dishes I know each person loves. It’s my way of saying, “I’m so glad you’re here.”
Ana, 21, Paraná, Brazil
“One thing I always do to make guests feel at home? Cook delicious desserts!”
Majda, 20, Los Angeles, US
“Hosting is how I honour my Moroccan heritage, my community, and the people who sit at my table. I welcome guests with a pot of freshly brewed Moroccan mint tea, something fragrant and comforting to help people relax and settle in and I always break the rule of not overfeeding guests. In Moroccan culture, abundance is love. A full table is a blessing, and sharing it is part of who we are. If you leave without a full plate and a to-go box, I feel like I haven’t done enough. My ‘rules’? Candles and dimmed lights, a great playlist and unless it’s a cosy pizza-on-the-sofa night, I want everyone to be dressed to the nines. My latest rule is making sure I actually eat. Too many times I’ve ended up drinking on an empty stomach. Now I make a point of sitting down and tasting what I’ve made with others.”
Syaqenah, 27, Johor, Malaysia
“In Malaysia we have a lot to celebrate because of our multiracial cultures. We might have different beliefs and religions, but our tradition of celebrating and sharing good food is a common thread that strengthens our community bond. And I love to plan and create when it comes to hosting – it means it’s time for a MOODBOARD!”
Deniz, 28, Ankara, Turkey
“Sure, you can book a gorgeous table at a Michelin-star restaurant or meet friends at a coffee shop, but those moments mainly last on Instagram. When it comes to moments with meaning - birthdays, holidays, long-awaited reunions - I feel uneasy if I don't put real heart into it. Because there’s something truly heartfelt about remembering those moments at home with loved ones – whether they happened around a table, over a drink, or curled up on a couch. Connection precedes anything else. The decor may be beautiful, but without authentic interaction among guests, it exists only for the eyes of the one who curated it. That’s why I have a primary rule when hosting: everyone should feel personally welcomed, introduced, and checked in on throughout the night."
Miriam, 29, Melbourne, Australia
“Some people don't let their guests do anything when they are hosting. I am most definitely the opposite, I love a team effort – it's more fun!”
Carla, 34, London, UK
“Through food, drinks, light and tarot cards, I build a world where people can soften, open up and connect with themselves and others differently. The table becomes the stage: a place where intuition, empathy, and play come alive. You know you’ve hit the heart of hosting when people stay glued to the table, crumbs scattered, wine drying in glasses, coffee brewing in the background, candles melting and everyone so at ease and immersed in the stories that they forget the time.”
Kayli, 31, New York, US
“Priya Parker wrote a fabulous book, The Art of Gathering, and one of the principles of gathering she emphasizes is that each gathering needs a purpose. I live and host by that too! I’ve hosted a Met & Martinis party around The Met Gala, an Equinox Gathering around the ritual of release, and a Valentine’s Day party to make cards for loved ones. Folks always know why they’re invited over!”
Micael, 26, Milan, Italy
“I’m Brazilian but I live in Milan. One thing Italians do is never arrive empty-handed – usually with a bottle of wine. Italians also love cooking for their guests, while in Brazil we usually order food so we can focus on spending time together. Both cultures are warm, kind, and very people-oriented, and I take a bit from both when I host. I always add a thoughtful gesture, like a little frame in my living room where I display a photo of me with the group I’m hosting. And I always prepare a simple antipasto (it looks fancy, but it’s so easy), and I love giving everyone a shot of cachaça – the Brazilian spirit we use to make caipirinhas. It’s amazing!”
Maria, 27, Bogotá, Colombia
“Growing up in Bogotá (a cold, foggy city) has made me prioritise comfort and cosiness. We naturally compensate the grey sky with warm meals, warm lighting, and even hospitality. We live by the saying “Donde come uno, comen dos y tres,” meaning there’s always space for one more at the table.”
Thea & Reza, 28, Jakarta, Indonesia
Reza: “Indonesians have a knack for parties – we celebrate practically anything and everything, and we love plenty. That has pretty much bled into how I host.”
Thea: “I live between Indonesia & Australia, and that really shapes my hosting as a blend of both worlds. From Jakarta, I bring warmth, generosity, and that instinct to make everyone feel deeply cared for. From Perth, I’ve learned a relaxed style lets people feel themselves. Together, it becomes a hosting style that honours both cultures - heartfelt, open, and quietly meaningful. I always break the ‘don’t force food on people’ rule, though. The Aussie in me tries to be chill, but the Indo side is already in the kitchen packing you leftovers even if you swore you were full.”
Sandy, 35, London, UK
“I'm Egyptian, grew up in Texas and now live in London. My culture and community have always been rooted in sharing and kindness first – everything is served family style. I also have a tradition of creating annual dinner guest merch. It's usually a simple t-shirt printed with our year's tagline, such as "Bad Behaviour," "Get It In Writing," or this year's "Reckless with Reason." It's more than just a souvenir; it's a piece of our shared history to take home. And I always break the rule of "Keep the guest list small” – at our annual Thanksgiving dinner, we had 30 people. The goal is maximum inclusion.”
Priscila, 34, Patagonia Argentina
“I’m surrounded by nature in Patagonia, so I usually try to match the aesthetic with my food and home, making sure everyone feels the peace.”
Rabia, 21, Osmaniye, Turkey
“This is exactly how Turkish hosting culture looks. We never forget our ritual of drinking coffee first and then spending long hours with tea – usually paired with something sweet like baklava. All of this is accompanied by long conversations and, of course, meals that are always rich and varied. Our society values generosity, neighbourliness and sharing, which makes hosting not just a social act, but a cultural duty.”
Cora, 26, Dublin, Ireland
“Ireland, the land of a thousand welcomes, has taught me immensely about how to welcome people in. I love living in such a friendly place, whose national slogan, cead mílle fáilte, means one hundred thousand welcomes. When a guest arrives we say, “you’re very welcome.” The best hosting rule is to always take pictures. I sometimes set up photobooths or provide disposable cameras. I also like to pick a theme for the food and drinks of the night – an era, a part of the world, a vibe – and when they’re up to it, I’ll even tell guests to dress to theme. Mailing people their photos a few weeks later with a little note is an easy and thoughtful gift.”
Mariya, 28, LA, US
“I love the ritual of hosting, which is incredibly inspired by my Bulgarian culture. There's always a table full of food, bottles of wine and spirits on hand, music playing throughout the entire evening, late nights among friends – the only thing missing is the horo! I grew up with parents who loved to have people over. Every other week we were cooking and cleaning in preparation for family friends coming over. My usual task: setting the table with our nicest tablecloth, flatware, plates or bowls, glasses, and napkins. It’s why I especially look forward to setting the table these days – there are few things better than admiring your finished space before the night begins.”
Shkurta, 33, Zurich, Switzerland
“I always try to pay attention to the small things like what someone might need before they even ask – a warm drink, adjusting the lighting or music, or simply checking in to see how they’re doing. Being born and raised in Kosovo, and later living in cities like Thessaloniki, Lugan and now Zurich, has helped me cultivate a multicultural outlook that inspires me to blend diverse flavours, traditions, and warm hospitality into every gathering.”
Monika, 28, London, UK
“My slight obsession with themed dinner parties comes directly from my parents. Growing up in Warsaw, I was allowed to join the adults for the first half of their dinner parties before being sent “upstairs” to play, though I always wanted to stay and listen to the chatter, the politics, and the gossip about people I didn’t even know. As I got older, I was finally allowed to stay up with them and now, when I host in London, I try to emulate that same energy:
A huge thank you to everyone who got in touch with us!
