By on February 15th, 2016

5 Things to Do in Irvine

International students choose Irvine, California, for many reasons. California is a popular choice for its diversity, climate, liberal educations, and many exciting attractions. As a host family, it is tempting to fill up days with the sights and adventures of your local area to share with your international student or intern. But with their time spent hard at work or studying, narrowing down the must-see local spots is important. You don’t want to overwhelm your guest while they struggle to acclimate, but distracting them with carefully planned outings may be helpful. If you are itching to show your international student or intern around your home town, here are five great spots to really show off the heart of Irvine.

1. Take a ride around the Ferris Wheel at the Irvine Spectrum Center. At the top of everyone’s list is this 108 foot high delight. If you go after dark, you’ll all get a breathtaking view of Irvine lit up against the night sky. The local shopping area beneath is a great way to take in some local culture, and the nearby food and movie theaters let you make a night of it.

2. Check out the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. This wildlife reserve is a great place to stroll around and watch for local bird and plant life. Educational, quiet, and away from the hubbub of the city, this may be just the thing for helping an overwhelmed or shy student to open up.

3. Catch a show at Irvine Improv. Nothing brings people together like comedy. Voted the Best Comedy Club in Orange County, the Irvine Improv has hosted some of the greatest comedians in America. Grab a burger at the nearby Umami Burgers and then get ready to laugh the night away. This is a great chance for your guest to learn a little about modern culture, and to share jokes from their own home.

4. Try a new meal together. If you haven’t explored Irvine’s exotic food fare, now is the time. Invite your guest to try sushi or Korean tapas with you, or check out an authentic Italian pizzeria. Sharing new experiences opens the door for conversation and puts the two of you on equal ground. For an international student or intern who is a beginner at everything here, this can be an appreciated gesture.

5. Attend the Annual Irvine Korean Cultural Festival. This festival happens in May, and is a beautiful representation of the Korean culture. Sample the food, witness traditional dances, hear Korean folk tales, and see some amazing Korean art on display. You’ll also see martial arts performances and experience many educational displays that help you learn about the Korean culture. This festival happens right in the Civic Center Plaza, so you’ll be nearby plenty of other attractions to visit with your host family after you take in the sights of the festival.

We don’t need to tell you that Irvine, California offers so many more sights and experiences. Hot air balloon rides, hikes, go-karts, water parks, and more can be fun times for everyone. Your student or intern guest will surely appreciate the lengths you go to planning an event that is suited to their personality, interests, and needs. The key is to open communication and to create memories that all of you will cherish. Look around for activities and places that are off the typical tourist track to truly show your guest the culture they came to see. Even a simple block party on your street might be a much better and more educational experience than an amusement park or other tourist trap.