What inspired you to travel abroad?
My inspiration to travel abroad came from a desire to immerse myself in different cultures and broaden my horizons. I wanted to experience firsthand the diverse ways of life, traditions, and perspectives that different countries have to offer.
Additionally, the opportunity to improve my language skills and make meaningful connections with people from around the world motivated me to take this journey. Traveling abroad allows me to grow personally and professionally, and I believe it will be an unforgettable and enriching experience.
Yoga outside with Spanishslow
Why did you choose Spanishslow?
I chose this specific program because it offers a unique and immersive approach to learning. Unlike traditional programs, it focuses on real-life experiences and cultural immersion, which I believe are essential for truly understanding and mastering a language.
The program's location in a rural area provides an authentic environment where I can interact with locals and gain a deeper appreciation for the culture.
Additionally, the program is led by an experienced and passionate educator who is committed to ensuring each participant's success. The combination of language learning, cultural activities, and a supportive community made this program the perfect choice for me.
What was your favorite part about Spain?
My favorite part about my host country/city was the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the local people. Their friendliness and hospitality made me feel at home from the moment I arrived.
I also loved exploring the beautiful rural landscapes, which provided a peaceful and serene environment perfect for both learning and relaxation.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the unique combination of immersive language learning and deep cultural engagement. Being in a rural area allowed me to connect with local people on a personal level and participate in their daily lives.
The diverse activities, such as cooking workshops, yoga in nature, and learning about local agriculture, provided hands-on experiences that went beyond traditional classroom learning.
Having a picnic
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff supported me throughout the program in numerous ways. From the very beginning, they were incredibly welcoming and made me feel at home.
They were always available to answer any questions and provide assistance whenever needed. The staff organized and facilitated various cultural activities and excursions, ensuring that each experience was enriching and enjoyable.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Looking back, one thing I wish I would have done differently during my time abroad is to have chosen the longer program, the ten-day one. While my experience was incredibly enriching and fulfilling, I feel that I could have delved even deeper into the language, culture, and activities offered by opting for the extended duration.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day in my life abroad began with the gentle warmth of the morning sun streaming through the window of my cozy apartment. After having breakfast, I would gather with fellow participants and our program leaders for our morning language session.
Following the language session, we would embark on a cultural activity or excursion planned for the day. This could include anything from a visit to a local artisan workshop to a guided hike through the picturesque countryside, or even a yoga session in a serene natural setting. Then we would gather together to enjoy a hearty meal at a charming restaurant known for its authentic cuisine.
In the afternoon, there would typically be another activity planned to further immerse ourselves in the local culture. This could include a guided tour of a nearby historical site, a hands-on workshop to learn traditional crafts, or a visit to a local market to sample regional delicacies. As the day came to a close, I would retire to my comfortable apartment.
Enjoying tapas in Spain
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I enjoyed exploring the village and countryside surrounding our program location. I loved interacting with residents, whether it was striking up conversations with shopkeepers at local markets.
Overall, my free time allowed me to deepen my connection to the destination and create cherished memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
During my time abroad, I had the pleasure of staying in apartments provided by the program. These apartments were beautifully furnished and equipped with everything one might need for a comfortable stay.
What I liked best about them was the flexibility they offered. Some participants, including myself, had the option to share an apartment with another person, while others chose to have individual accommodations.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
It's essential to pack comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Additionally, it's important to note that the local residents typically speak only Spanish, so participants should be prepared to immerse themselves fully in the language and embrace the opportunity to practice their Spanish skills in real-life situations.
Would you recommend Spanishslow? Why?
As a participant in the program, I would absolutely recommend our provider to others. The experience was incredibly enriching and fulfilling on multiple levels. Firstly, the program offered a unique approach to language learning that went beyond traditional classroom instruction.
Immersing ourselves in the local culture and interacting with native speakers provided a rich and authentic learning environment that accelerated our language acquisition. Additionally, the program was well-organized and executed, with thoughtful attention to detail in every aspect of the experience.
Breakfast at the Santuario Virgen de la Fuente
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity for personal growth and development. Immersing oneself in a different culture, language, and environment challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, adapt to new situations, and broaden their perspectives.
Through travel, people gain a deeper understanding of the world, build empathy and tolerance for different ways of life, and develop valuable life skills such as communication, problem-solving, and cultural competency.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I'm home, I can see that my time abroad has had a profound impact on my life in various ways. Firstly, my language skills have improved significantly as a result of the immersive experience, allowing me to communicate more effectively in Spanish.
This has opened up new opportunities for me professionally and personally, as I can now engage more confidently with Spanish-speaking communities.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, means engaging in experiences that go beyond mere tourism and leave a lasting impact on both the traveler and the communities visited.
It involves immersing oneself in the local culture, connecting with people, and gaining a deeper understanding of the destination's history, customs, and way of life.
