The IW Friendship Force club had the pleasure of welcoming Brazilian visitors in the early autumn. Despite the mildness of our climate, the guests really enjoyed their stay. At home in Ribeiro Preto, temperatures of 40 degrees or more were the norm, with air conditioning going at full blast. 

Another big difference was the openness of our homes. One Brazilian couple had eight security cameras at home and a big dog too. They used WiFi regularly to check these cameras from their hosts’ home in Gurnard.

Some IW club members spoke Portuguese. At the Welcome Breakfast at Monkton Arts, one, Chris, was able to welcome guests in their own language. Some visitors spoke English, but not all. For several IW hosts, Google Translate became a new but essential app.

The visitors enjoyed finding out about our way of life. They liked a costal walk and pubs and food. They were particularly taken by the interior of Wetherspoons, astonished that a church could be converted into a pub. Fish and chips proved popular as did a traditional English cream tea.

They were enthusiastic shoppers, relishing shopping in TK Maxx, a quite different experience from shopping in their own city. Living so far from the sea, a Solent crossing and trip to Gunwharf Quays was arranged for them, which they enjoyed.

Another popular activity was the farewell meal, where guests joining in enthusiastically with the Hokey Cokey, as Steve played his guitar.

Several of the new members welcomed guests to stay in their homes or led outings, such as the much enjoyed visit to Osborne House and gardens.

This was another successful 2024 cultural exchange following on from a visit to Canada earlier in the year. In spring 2025, Island Friendship Forcers will visit Japan.

New members are always welcome. Membership secretary is Marjo: friendshipforceiow@hotmail.com