Welcome to Clinton, PA!

We are a country town that is just a 25 minute drive away from Pittsburgh, the City of Bridges.  Pittsburgh, PA just celebrated its 200^th birthday in 2008 and is known by a number of names which include America’s Most Livable City, The Steel City, and The City of Champions.  The city’s history reaches back to the settlement of the Native Americans, namely the Allegawis, Adena, Hopewell, Shawnee, and Iroquois Tribes.   Pittsburgh was involved in the French and Indian War, being the location of Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne.  President George Washington spent extensive time in Pittsburgh.  During the Industrial Revolution of the 1800’s, an influx of immigrants came into the city and became a part of what is now known as the Steel City.  Working in steel plants, the immigrants formed communities which are still recognized today.  For this reason, Pittsburgh is a fantastic location for diverse, ethnic cuisine!

Modern Pittsburgh is an environmentally conscious, football-focused (we’re the home of the 2008 Super Bowl Champions – the Pittsburgh Steelers), and community centered city.  In your time here, we will make a point of going into the city to see its sights.  We may check out the Carnegie Museums of Natural History, Art, as well as the Carnegie Science Center.  We may also visit the National Aviary and see a show such as a musical. 

Clinton, PA, the community in which you’ll be staying, is the perfect example of rural America.  As noted, it’s just outside of the city, and yet it is a town surrounded by farms and traditional American living.  We hope to give you an opportunity to experience the typical American family.  Staying with two different families, for the time of a week each, you will be incorporated into these families culture, sharing with them in the most joyful time of the year.  You may bake cookies, perhaps you’ll help to decorate a Christmas tree, or join in the festivities of New Year’s Eve.  This program’s focus will be on the joys of being with an American family, sharing in the joy of the season. 

In addition to the above activities, we encourage you to share your country with us.  We would love to learn about your culture and the joys of your home.  We encourage you, if you are able, to bring pictures from home, your favorite recipes, and whatever else you would like to bring with you to share so that we can learn, also.

The weather in Pittsburgh in December is typically cold.  It is usually in the 20-30’s Fahrenheit.  We encourage you to dress warmly, to bring a coat, gloves, scarf, and hat.  It may even snow while you are here!

As far as expenses, your place of residence and home-cooked meals will be at no cost to you.  However, eating out, going to local attractions (museums, a show, etc.) are up to you.  We encourage bringing $100-200 with you to cover these costs, as well as whatever souvenirs you’ll be purchasing.