What inspired you to go abroad?
I was inspired to go abroad to the north of Spain with Instituto Hemingway because I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture while learning Spanish in an authentic environment. The region’s natural beauty, friendly
people, and relaxed lifestyle attracted me instantly. I was also drawn by the opportunity to combine language learning with meaningful volunteer work, connecting with local communities and experiencing daily life in a truly enriching and sustainable way.
Why did you choose Instituto Hemingway?
I chose Instituto Hemingway for its excellent reputation for teaching Spanish in a friendly, immersive environment. The school offers a perfect balance of structured language courses, cultural activities, and opportunities for meaningful volunteer work.
I was also attracted by the personalized attention from teachers, the chance to practice Spanish daily, and the supportive community atmosphere, which makes learning enjoyable while fully experiencing life in northern Spain.
Certificate day
What was your favorite part about Bilbao?
My favorite part about Bilbao, Spain, is its unique blend of modernity and tradition. I love walking along the Nervión River, admiring the Guggenheim Museum and its contemporary architecture, and exploring the charming old town with its narrow streets and lively markets.
The city’s vibrant culture, delicious Basque cuisine, and friendly atmosphere make it feel welcoming and inspiring, offering endless opportunities to learn, explore, and enjoy both art and everyday life
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
What made my experience abroad extraordinary was the combination of immersive language learning, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections. Living in northern Spain allowed me to practice Spanish daily, participate in local traditions, and discover the region’s natural beauty.
Volunteering and interacting with the community made me feel truly part of the culture, while the supportive environment at Instituto Hemingway made every day inspiring, fun, and unforgettable.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
The local staff at Instituto Hemingway supported me every step of the way. They provided guidance on language learning, offered personalized feedback, and organized cultural activities that helped me immerse myself in Spanish life.
They were always approachable, answered my questions, and assisted with practical matters like housing and travel. Their encouragement and kindness created a welcoming environment, making my experience abroad smooth, enjoyable, and truly enriching.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
One thing I wish I had done differently during my time abroad is to explore more of the surrounding towns and countryside in northern Spain. While I fully enjoyed my language classes and local experiences, venturing further would have allowed me to discover hidden gems, practice Spanish in diverse settings, and gain an even deeper understanding of the culture and lifestyle.
Enjoying my day!
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
A typical day abroad started with Spanish classes in the morning, where I improved my language skills through interactive lessons and conversation practice. In the afternoon, I participated in volunteer activities, helping the community and applying sustainable practices. Evenings were for exploring the town, enjoying local cuisine, and practicing Spanish with friends, making every day productive and culturally enriching.
Surfing was one of my favorite pastimes.
What did you enjoy doing during your free time abroad?
During my free time abroad, I enjoyed exploring the city and nearby towns, walking along scenic streets, and visiting cultural landmarks. I also loved trying local cuisine, meeting new people, and practicing Spanish in real-life situations.
Relaxing in cafes, attending cultural events, and spending time outdoors allowed me to experience the local lifestyle and culture fully.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I stayed in apartments right next to the school that had all the modern conveniences I needed.
What I liked best was the cosmopolitan, international atmosphere and living with people my age from different countries. It was easy to make friends, share experiences, and enjoy a lively, supportive community throughout my stay.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing every future participant should know is that the program combines intensive Spanish classes with meaningful volunteer work, offering a unique balance of learning and giving back to the community.
Being open-minded, proactive, and ready to engage with both local culture and international peers will make the experience truly rewarding and unforgettable.
Would you recommend Instituto Hemingway to others? Why?
I would definitely recommend Instituto Hemingway to others. The program offers a perfect combination of intensive Spanish classes, volunteer work, and cultural activities, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Spanish life fully.
The staff is supportive, the accommodation is comfortable, and the international community makes it easy to make friends. Overall, it’s a well-organized, enriching experience that helps improve language skills while contributing meaningfully to the community.
Sharing moments with my classmates
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and gain a global perspective. It helps you develop independence, adaptability, and confidence while learning new languages and customs.
Experiencing different ways of life broadens your understanding of the world, fosters empathy, and creates lasting memories and meaningful connections that go beyond the classroom.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Now that I’m home, I realize how much my time abroad has shaped my perspective and personal growth. Living and studying in Spain improved my confidence, adaptability, and communication skills.
I feel more open-minded and inspired to keep learning languages and exploring cultures. The friendships and memories I made continue to influence my outlook, reminding me of the value of curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel means experiencing a place deeply while contributing positively to its community and environment. It’s more than sightseeing; it’s learning the language, understanding local culture, and engaging in activities that make a difference, like volunteering.
Meaningful travel enriches both the traveler and the people they meet, creating connections, fostering empathy, and leaving a lasting impact beyond the journey itself.
