Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Spanish culture while improving your language skills. Your learning extends far beyond the classroom walls when you explore the streets of the quaint town of Tarragona, pausing to speak with the locals you encounter along the way. Experience the thrill of learning to windsurf along the Costa Brava, and appreciate the flavors of Madrid’s cuisine. Feel the vibrant atmosphere as you walk along Barcelona’s famous Ramblas and whitewater raft a river that pours down from the peaks of the Pyrenees. Improve your language skills while discovering the amazing and diverse culture of Spain, and return home with an increased knowledge of both the country and its language.
“This trip is absolutely worth it. I really, really like Spain and I’ll definitely speak more Spanish now.”
— Ashley K., ARCC Student
Arrival in Barcelona
Our journey begins in cosmopolitan Barcelona, a city known for its unique combination of history and Spanish culture blended with modern and international influences. We explore the city’s elegant boulevards, impressive parks and beaches, world-renowned museums, and perhaps stop at a local restaurant to sample some delicious tapas. Wandering the streets, we see amazing buildings designed by celebrated architect Antoni Gaudí, including the famed Sagrada Familia church and the Parc Güell.
Language Study in Tarragona
We transfer to Tarragona, located on the Costa Dorada just south of Barcelona, for our first week of Spanish language study. The language program combines fun and learning both inside and outside the classroom, with structured daily classes with qualified teachers and activities with native speakers. This allows us to experience Spanish culture, language, and society first-hand. We also have time to spend relaxing at the beach, to explore the town and its sites, including the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater, or to enjoy a typical lunch of delicious paella at a beachfront restaurant.
Windsurfing & Whitewater Rafting in Catalunya
We spend a day windsurfing the stunning blue waters of the Costa Brava, where the wind and gentle waves make the perfect setting for beginners to learn this fun sport. After spending the morning with our professional instructors learning the basics, we have supervised free time to continue practicing our new skills. Next we travel to the Pyrenees Mountains, near the border with France. Here we will spend an exciting day whitewater rafting the cascading waters of the Noguera Pallaresa River. While navigating the river, we pass by stunning natural landscapes reminiscent of Gaudí’s organic architectural style.
Spanish Language School in Madrid
We continue to improve our Spanish skills with a week of study in Madrid, the capital of Spain and a center of art and history. The language course is designed to be varied, challenging, and fun so that we enjoy ourselves while we increase our proficiency. Again, our classroom instruction is supplemented by activities, and immersion in the Spanish culture and way of life.
Excursion to Toledo
Our adventure continues with an excursion to Toledo, a medieval city perched on rocky hills above the Río Tajo. We explore the city’s maze of narrow cobbled streets, patios and plazas, visit its museums and stunning cathedral, and stop to sample some delicious marzipan, a sweet local specialty. We conclude our adventure with a festive Spanish farewell dinner.
