Learning a language is much more than memorizing verb tenses and vocabulary words from a text book. Practicing conversations in a local context outside of the classroom to catch nuisances in dialect, slang and regional variations are much more valuable than any course overseas could provide. Spoken by more than 400 million people around the world, Spain offers everything from month-long immersion classes to year-long studies. Whether you’re keen on learning Spanish as a beginner or perfecting your accent in an advanced program, there are opportunities for you to explore across the country. Beyond language, their unique traditions and heritage have to be seen and experienced to understand the rich culture.
Study
Fedele Center operates schools throughout the country that provide a full language immersion. They can match you up with city accommodations, a home-stay and/or extracurricular activities to supplement your studies. They set the bar for Spanish learning because they want you to get the most out of your trip in terms of experiencing the culture, cuisine, festivals, dance, and sports to really get a 360° understanding of Spain. With programs for students of all ages, there are courses focused on business, tourism and prep for the DELE exam from classroom times ranging from a few hours a week to 20-30 in both group and private settings.
Work
Want to earn some money while you’re abroad? By nannying with a family as an au-pair, you’re around people and conversing 24/7. As the young children learn and grow, so will you! It’s a great opportunity to expose them to English at a young age and you to Spanish to help each other, as well as get the experience of living as a local. Another option is to pick up a temp job or waitress/bartend for a couple months to be forced to communicate in the native tongue.
Play
A perfect opportunity to combine your passion for Spanish, history and architecture is to study in several UNESCO-designated World Heritage Cities. Courses of various levels are offered at Alcalá de Henares, Cáceres, Córdoba, Cuenca, Mérida, Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela, Segovia, and Toledo - cities where art, culture and history melt together in an impressive backdrop to your journey.
Route of the Castilian Language
To make the most of your experience in Spain, follow the Route of the Castilian Language ("Camino de la Lengua Castellana") - a course based around the history of Spanish. The itinerary runs through all of the towns where Spanish originated and developed. Monuments, squares, cloisters, palaces, libraries, landscapes, art and culinary traditions come together as you discover the beauty of San Millán de la Cogolla, Santo Domingo de Silos, Valladolid, Salamanca, Ávila, and Alcalá de Henares.
Where Can You Live?
Madrid
A cosmopolitan city with impressive cultural and artistic heritage, Madrid is home to over 70 museums, including the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía National Art Centre. All three are located within 10 minutes of each other near the famous Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid's signature landmarks, and the magnificent 17th century Royal Palace. Enjoy the finest Spanish cuisine prepared traditionally or with a modern twist, or visit Alcalá de Henares - just 20 miles east of Madrid - home to one of Spain's most prestigious universities and the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes.
Castilla y León
Explore the region's incredible Roman and Medieval past in Ávila, Salamanca and Segovia and follow in the footsteps of the first European settlers at Atapuerca's archaeological site. The Gothic-style Cathedral in the city of Burgos will take you back to the13th century and amaze with its size and a myriad of intricate details. Spain's renowned pilgrimage route, the Way of Saint James, runs through the region as well. The University of Salamanca boasts academic traditions that date back to 1134, the city of Valladolid is renowned for its National Sculpture Museum, and you will marvel at the city of León's magnificent cathedral with its stunning stained glass windows.
Valencia
A coastal city that blends tradition and innovation, Valencia will become a picturesque backdrop to your studies. The birthplace of paella, Valencia is also home to the Santiago Calatrava designed City of Arts and Sciences and its new Bioparc. Take advantage of their nearly-perfect climate to enjoy a variety of nautical and seaside activities. Don't miss the spectacular Las Fallas bonfire festival, designated a Festivity of International Tourist Interest, and the famed tomato throwing festival La Tomatina that takes place every August in the nearby town of Buñol.
Andalucía
Known as the birthplace of flamenco, tapas, and sherry, Andalucía's cultural and biodiversity will add a stunning backdrop to your linguistic experience. The region's mild temperatures, long golden beaches, craggy mountains and vast plains, and its cities Córdoba, Sevilla, and Granada boast historically rich monuments. The city of Málaga, home to the Picasso Museum, offers an innovative educational initiative through its "Club de Producto" (Product Club). Combine learning Spanish in Málaga with activities as golf, sailing, exploring Málaga's 'green' eco-system, or the Botanical Gardens, Enology, as well the art of Flamenco.