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阅读理解
An
American friend has invited you to visit his family. You've never been to an
American's home before, and you are not sure what to do. Don't worry! When
you're the guest, you should just make yourself at home.
The
question of whether or not to bring a gift often gives guests a headache. In
American culture, it's not a must-do thing to bring a present. Of course, some
people do bring some small gifts like flowers, candies or- if the family has
small children-toys. If you don't choose to bring a gift, don't worry. No one
will even notice.
American
hospitality(好客) begins at home. Most Americans agree
that good home cooking beats restaurant food. When invited for a meal, you
might ask, "Can I bring anything?" If it's not a potluck, where
everyone brings a dish, the host will possibly answer, "No, just
yourself," For most informal dinners, you can just wear comfortable
clothes. Remember to arrive on time, or call to tell your hosts that you may be
late.
During the dinner conversation, it's polite
to say the food is nice. After dinner, you can help clear the table or wash the
dishes. But since you are the guest, your hosts may not let you do that. Instead,
they may invite everyone to move to the living room to drink some tea or
coffee. If the hosts are not smokers, you shouldn't smoke in their houses. And,
above all, don't go around looking at the house if you are not invited. After about
an hour of chat, it's time to say goodbye if you don't want to wear out your
welcome.
