Study Abroad Programs Blog

New York Times: 36 Hours in San Sebastian

San Sebastian, home of AmeriSpan's San Sebastian Spanish school, is a secret getaway for many Europeans, but now tourists from North America are catching on! The New York Times is, of course, at the forefront of travel trends, and highlighted San Sebastian recently, in their feature entitled 36 Hours in San Sebastian.

Reflections on Coronado

By La' India S., a Teen Delegate participating in AmeriSpan's Coronado Independent Teen program

My experience in Costa Rica is ending. This is my third week and the opportunity to come to this country was more than words can describe. Today I went to a wonderful cafe with a friend that we adore. The food is great and the service is excellent. I had the best hot chocolate I ever tasted and we shared a dish. I can`t quite remember what the dish was called, but there are no words to described the delicious taste. It was asparragus wrapped in ham with cheese all over the top. On the side there were the best vegetables I ever tasted. A three year old that would not dare touch a piece of broccoli would love them! Afterwards, for dessert, we ordered and shared a strawberry crepe. It had ice cream and whipped topping with fresh strawberries. Again, delicious beyond compare. Here, in Costa Rica, they continue to surprise me with their foods. None of the foods that I have had so far had been what I expected and they are always amazing.We have already made plans to come back to Costa Rica in 3 years. Puerto Viejo and Coronado will be our first stops.

Meet the Student: Cusco Spanish School

Meet Craig T.Z., a student at AmeriSpan's Cusco Spanish School (Budget Friendly)

What is your background?
Ethnicity: American
Age: 21
Education: International School Bangkok, Thailand (2001-2008)
Binghamton University, New York (2008- )
Current Address: Wakefield, Rhode Island, USA  
Civil Status: Single

Preparations for Semana Santa

By Bradley R., guest blogger studying Spanish in Heredia and Samara Beach, two of AmeriSpan's most popular Costa Rica Spanish schools

To the best of my knowledge, every Spanish-speaking country is officially Catholic, and Costa Rica is no exception.  Unlike my experience in the United States, Latin countries celebrate Semana Santa, or Holy Week, as the most important event on the church’s calendar.  I have experienced Semana Santa in Spain a number of years back, so I have a vague idea of the processions and community events
to be expected.  This year, however, I am getting a more up close look at what is going on.

AmeriSpan's New Budget Spanish School in Buenos Aires, Argentina

Last week, we blogged about our fabulous new Spanish School in Cusco, Peru. This week, we invite you to discover our other new budget location - our Buenos Aires Spanish school!

The school's beautiful building boasts a great location and many sought after amenities, including large bay windows, free Wi-fi, a tango room, a lounge, cafe, full kitchen, and more - not to mention the truly brilliant and attentive faculty! One student loved his experience here so much, he used his multimedia expertise to make a "mini-documentary" about this school for future students!

Study Portuguese in Salvador

Considering studying Portuguese in Salvador? We don't blame you! For many people, Portguese study abroad in Salvador, Brazil is a rewarding experience in a truly unique location just buzzing with energy. Salvador's rich cultural offerings like museums and galleries, nightlife, and African-influenced food give the location an edge on other schools and will give you the experience of a lifetime!

 

The school, just 5 minutes from the beach, is a relaxing, quiet getaway with plenty of room to unwind and study. There are so many great things about this location, you'll never want to leave!

Check out more about AmeriSpan's Salvador Portuguese school

Fundraising Tips and Tricks

As you may know by now, AmeriSpan recently launched its Fundraising Program to assist participants with the costs of their study abroad programs. Fundraisers can submit their story and goal and then use AmeriSpan buttons on their website or blog to share with friends and family that link to their very own fundraising story and page.

So far, this feature has been popular and a very helpful tool for students to finance their plans. Our site has an FAQ page for those wanting to find out more, including some ideas for getting your fundraising started! Some of these ideas include:

Volunteer Placement Preparation in Nepal

AmeriSpan volunteer Glenn A. has finished up his week of cultural classes and is preparing for his teaching placement as he settles in with his host family. Our school director writes:

"Glenn/"Ganesh" is working at Bishwa Shiksha Sadan in Maijubahal, Chabahil, Kathmandu. He moved to his placement site on Sunday. He is staying with the family of Principal. They have a joint family with 13 members. It will be a good experience for him. He came back to see us  and collect his laundry yesterday.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Any traveler planning a trip abroad is wise to make all of the necessary preparations before leaving on their trip, but now there is a way to be even more prepared and ready for anything. While you may be aware that every country abroad has a US embassy to contact in case of emergency, you may not have heard of a program recommended by the US State Department for travelers abroad - the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP.

Formerly known as the "Registration with Embassies Program,", STEP allows travelers to create an account, sign in, and make the proper consulate officers aware of their plans. This way, it is easier for them to be assisted should an emergency or difficulty arise.

Cultural Classes in Nepal

With AmeriSpan's Volunteer placements in Nepal, students are required to take a week of culture classes before beginning their volunteer placement. AmeriSpan currently has a volunteer in Nepal who has been thoroughly enjoying this aspect of his trip. Our Nepal school director writes:

"On Monday, February 21, Glenn ("Ganesh") had language in the morning and then went to Patan Durbar Square, Golden Temple and Kumbheshwor on a historical and cultural orientation tour. He had typical Newari food for lunch in Patan. After that, he observed a typical marriage ceremony.

Studying Arabic in Egypt During a Crisis

The crisis in Egypt has passed and AmeriSpan is no longer recommending against travel to Egypt.  However, we continue to caution all travelers to the Middle East and Morocco to remain extra diligent.  In Jordan and Morocco, the protests are largely peaceful but large crowds impact regular police work and we believe the risk for everyday crime like theft is higher today than a few months ago. 

AmeriSpan participant, John S., was learning Arabic in Egypt during the recent crisis and was kind enough to complete a questionnaire about his experience and outlook on the current situation.  Please note that AmeriSpan offered a full refund for any unused classes and lodging and when the US State Department issued a travel warning. We were unable to contact John due to blocked communication systems to find out if he was going to leave as they recommended. However, John is an adult and the final decision was his-  he chose to remain in Egypt.  Further, John mentions that he went to Tahrir square and watched the protests.  AmeriSpan does not condone this.  We want to be clear about this. When traveling abroad, we strongly urge our participants to avoid political protests, labor strikes and other confrontational gatherings.  This is the case whether in Europe, Asia, Latin America or Africa.