What inspired you to travel abroad?
I wanted to improve my verbal Spanish and immerse myself into the Spanish way of life. I had completed the same course with Monica in Dosrius, Barcelona, and I really enjoyed it. I have studied Spanish for a while and immersion is one of the best ways to learn and improve your vocabulary as well as your ability in the language.
Why did you choose Spanish Express?
I thought it would be an incredible way of immersing myself into the culture and also an amazing way to improve my spoken Spanish, speaking only Spanish. I had experience with Spanish Express in the past, and I knew how fantastic the trips were in learning the language and improving vocabulary.
What was your favorite part about Spain?
My favorite part was traveling around the city of Valencia. One of my favorite parts was the night-watching a Flamenco show. I also enjoyed going to the historical center of Valencia. It was fantastic to climb to the top of the cathedral–a whole 300 steps to the top. I was very tired afterwards.
Tom roaming the streets of València.
What made your trip abroad extraordinary?
The hospitality and kindness of my host teacher, Pilar, who went above and beyond at all times, really made me feel at home. Pilar treated me like family, and she made the experience enjoyable. I am going to miss my time here, and I will miss being able to practice my Spanish throughout the day. I will have to return in the future.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
Pilar was there throughout and was an incredible host. She was always there, giving advice and classes on improving my Spanish. Pilar was always on hand, making food and constantly making me feel at home. She was always checking if I needed anything and taught me a lot about vocabulary. I'm very glad she was my teacher here!
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I wish I stayed longer. I would love to do a month here and really improve my Spanish. I wish I could have spent more time with people my age while here so I could see how different life is here to at home for my age group. I wish I could have done an open-top bus of the city, maybe if I had more time here!
What’s your typical day like?
A typical day would be waking up in the morning to breakfast, where we would make plans on what we would do throughout the day. The days normally consisted on a day trip or a day in house doing classes or watching Spanish films. Pilar would make dinner and lunch for me and she would help me try a range of new foods.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
I really enjoyed watching films at home, spending time in the Spanish sun, and going into the swimming pool. I got into the Spanish culture of having a siesta after having eaten my dinner. This became a daily thing for me and is something I needed to deal with the constant heat.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I had my own apartment, which was incredible. It was completely private, and I had access to a kitchen and my own bathroom. My room was lovely and clean. I felt right at home while I was in there, and I loved having access to my own kitchen space. I didn’t need to cook, but it was nice to have that independence.
Typical Valencian Food.
What is one thing every future participant should know about the “Live & Study Spanish in your teacher's home in Spain!” program before theirs begins?
I think it’s important to bring pens and a notepad before you come. You need a decent level of Spanish before coming as it would be challenging without it. I believe as well you should have outlined things you want to improve in terms of vocabulary and grammar. Bring a book to do writing work and grammar work.
Would you recommend Spanish Express to others? Why?
Yes, I would. It is a fantastic way to learn Spanish and introduce yourself to the Spanish culture. I think this experience is essential to help you gain fluency and to gain a true understanding of the Spanish culture. It is an incredible way to learn about different people and the way other people live. I found it fascinating.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
You learn about different places, especially different cultures, people, and the way people live in different parts of the world. You become very well-rounded when you travel, and I believe it is an essential thing to do to learn about yourself, especially about your own strengths and weaknesses in the Spanish language.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
My trip has taught me a lot about Spanish culture. The differences between living here and British culture are very different, and it’s very interesting to experience a different culture. I can’t believe the trip is over, and I am very upset about it. I can’t wait to plan my next trip with Spanish Express, hopefully to a new region I have never been to.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me is that where I have visited has had an impact, either teaching me about something or in terms of making a change to myself. This travel has had an impact on me and it has taught me a lot. I believe if you are traveling, you are learning the whole time, not just about the culture but about yourself as well.
