Summer High School Homestays Programs in Spain

My experience with the CIEE Spanish Language and Culture Program in Palma de Mallorca was overwhelmingly positive and truly transformative. Living with a welcoming host family allowed me to experience authentic Spanish culture, try new foods, and practice my language skills daily. Taking university-level Spanish classes deepened my understanding of the language while immersing me in an academic environment abroad. Beyond the classroom, cultural activities and excursions helped me connect with the island’s history and people, creating lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. This program not only strengthened my Spanish but also gave me a new sense of independence and appreciation for global perspectives.

During my time traveling through the north of Spain with LITA, I was exposed to cultures and customs far more intricate and personal than could be taught in any classroom setting. My travels with LITA began in a striking rural home/inn located in a northern province of Spain. For the first week, my fellow group members and I got to know each other through very intentional activities and daily excursions, including hikes, meals, music concerts, visiting landmarks, and more. The people I met during this initial period of my time in Spain, have stuck with me ever since. Each person that our group organizer/head of program planned for us to meet, was incredibly hospitable and welcoming. Additionally, being in a rural part of Spain introduced me to lifestyles and traditions very different from my own and was extremely eye-opening and informative, while also being very engaging. During the next three weeks of LITA, I was welcomed, with thoughtfulness, into the host community where I stayed. During this portion of the trip, I participated in many excursions with my incredibly kind host family, and was exposed to true Spanish culture in many different ways, including taking a daily siesta with my host sister, and enjoying mid-day family time. I was able to visit many well known Spanish cities, and go on local adventures through the daily classes the program offered. Most importantly though, I have kept in contact with my host family since the program ended, and plan to continue doing so, as they have become a great presence in my life. The final week of LITA was filled with adventure, including a two day hike, and exploring cities, while continuing to meet friends of the head of our program, who were all very talented and gracious people. LITA provided me with an experience that will forever be a highlight of my life, as I grew in my ability to speak Spanish while having a great time. I was also able to see the dedication of each group leader, monitor, and member, who created a thoroughly curated program and provided support and resources to ensure each student had the best possible experience. Thank you LITA!