I honestly cannot find any fault with this amazing program. Arcos offers a well-balanced model that includes language instruction. cultural experiences and an "insider" view via a host family stay. The host families are well-vetted, as is the language program. Students on our trip wanted to bring their language teachers back to our school in the U.S. to continue their instruction! Despite near-constant rain and chilly weather, not one student complained. This had much to do with the flexibility of the Arcos Journeys Abroad staff, who made shifts on the spot to accommodate the group when the weather was uncooperative. For instance, one day we spent time in a tea house prior to the walk in the Albaic'in (the historic Moorish/UNESCO site neighborhood), allowing us to experience this unique setting while waiting out the heavy rain. This was not initially in the plans, but Arcos made it happen. Also, Granada is culturally and historically rich, and to see places such as the Alhambra in person made real what had always been an abstraction within a history course. This program provides layers of value. Granada is a must.
My daughter had an excellent summer experience in Granada. The Spanish language course was very good, the local homestay family was very nice, the other students were very fun, and the cultural events and activities organized by Arcos Journeys were excellent. Arcos Journeys is very professional and very well-organized. It was the perfect mix of supervision with the freedom to independently explore and enjoy the old historic neighborhood of Granada with the other Arcos Journeys participants.
Arcos summer Spanish Language Program in Granada was an excellent experience for my High School daughter. Granada was a fun, beautiful city. She was really able to walk, experience, and participate in Granada life. When we picked her up she knew the city really well and she loved the chance to become a resident for 3 weeks. Arcos coordinated to for the students language classes at the university, which they had every morning. She had other teens and college students in her classes from all around the world. It was a great part of her experience that she built diverse friends. The program provided enough structure with activities in the evenings and on weekends. This gave them a chance to see cultural sites, go to the beach, do art, see Flamenco, hike in the mountains and small villages. The homestay worked well. She enjoyed having 2 other American roommates, which made the newness easier. The locations of the homestays were well selected and she enjoyed her neighborhood. She found her host family friendly. She enjoyed the independence of coming and going. It was an excellent 3 week experience. Arcos was organized. They gave us the information we needed at the right times, including information about flights the best debit cards to use overseas. They provided support and also freedom to make it a success. We're super happy with the experience as parents and I know she loved going!
Incredible experience!! I enjoyed the food and culture and could not think of a better way to learn a language! My host mom and our program directors did an amazing job at showing us around the city and making sure we accomplished our goals for the trip (travel, learn a language or about a culture, etc.) Would 100% go back!!
I had a blast with Arcos and my fellow adventurers! Marcell and Rocio, our two adult leaders, made this trip so fun and getting to know them was a great experience! Granada was a great place to explore, and I am certainly returning in the next couple years!
I had a great time in Granada, and learned a lot about the history of the city through Arcos' activities. I was also able to really improve my Spanish and make great friends.
I spent 4 weeks in Spain and had a great time. It exceeded my expectations because the schedule was perfectly planed out with the perfect amount of time for classes and free time. On top of that, I had the opportunity to go on many excursions and see beaches, and castles, and restaurants etc. But most importantly the staff was so friendly and helpful that it made me feel at home and welcomed. Overall it was a great trip and I would do it again.
Our 15 year old daughter thoroughly enjoyed her three week Spanish immersion program in Granada, Spain. Arcos Journeys was communicative about her arrival, planned fun excursions for the kids, and provided safe home stays. It was the right about of structure and independence for our daughter. I highly recommend this company!
Arcos was efficient and easy to work with, and our high school students loved the trip. The administrative team handled our airline bookings at our request and worked with us in timely manner to find the best prices and flight paths. Their on the ground team was professional, punctual and organized. The resident director was proactive in making suggestions to maximize the student experience and working with host families to accommodate student needs that came up on the fly.
Students gave high marks to the home stays and language classes set up by Arcos. They said that both parts of the program challenged them in new ways to use their Spanish, and they came home with a new level of enthusiasm. All things considered, Arcos offers an exceptional value compared to the other student travel outfitter options that are out there.. The fact that they specialize in Spanish immersion only is an added bonus, and they are willing to collaborate to customize trips.
Fantastic experience! I found that I benefitted as both a student and an individual from the deep cultural immersion, cultivated throw cultural experience, and also hands on language study.
My high school daughter had a wonderful experience studying Spanish and living in Granada. The side trips were great too. Great ratio of scheduled and free time. Both the US-based staff and the Granada staff were wonderful, responsive and easy to talk to. They were SO helpful when my daughter was having some challenges. Her Spanish improved a lot.
Her home-stay was so-so. It was safe, but she didn't connect with the host - who was a single person. I think she would have preferred a family.
My son attended the Buenos Aires summer program for 4 weeks, and my daughter attended the Costa Rica summer program for 3 weeks. They each had a great time! They loved their host families, Spanish teachers and the fun (outdoor, cultural, etc.) programs.
Their Spanish improved so much -- and more important, their comfort level in speaking. It also motivated them to want to continue with higher level Spanish in high school. My son did great on his Spanish AP and SAT subject tests (my daughter has not taken those yet).
My niece and her friend also loved the Costa Rica program, and I have met a few other families who also had great experiences with [Arcos Journey Abroad]. I am happy to recommend them! I remember searching for reviews as I was nervous about sending my son, and would have loved to find experiences like this on the web, which is why I decided to write this!. (At the time I called references given by SA.)
Our 16 Year old son went to Granada, Spain for three weeks with [Arcos Journey Abroad] and he had an amazing time. It was a big step, first time abroad solo, did not go with school friends, and had to communicate in Spanish. He got along nicely with a guy from another state, loved his host family, enjoyed the classes, and loved the excursions, getting to know Spain and making new friends. Everybody wasn't best friends, but most everyone made an effort to get along and make the trip enjoyable for each other. He texted home, "It's super fun, I love it!"
I also want to say [Arcos Journey Abroad] was very responsive. Our son's luggage got lost on the way to Spain. Hey it happens, but it was sorted out. Welcome to the world of travel. We also had issues with a credit card we had sent him with. After a few failed attempts with Spanish banks, we contacted the US office and were able to get funds to him with [Arcos Journey Abroad]'s assistance.
It's a great program with nice kids, caring host families, wonderful excursions and support when you need it. I would say it was a success...especially when are son said he was sad to say goodbye and can't wait to go back some day!
To start off, I'd like to say that my experience in Buenos Aires was incredible. Overall, the three weeks I was there included some of the most amazing and eventful days I've ever had! I'm currently a 10th grade student in California, and I felt as though the trip was perfect for me. Not only did I immediately click with my lovely host-mother, but I got to stay with my best friend as well. The apartment was more than adequate, with internet, comfortable beds, and TV's. The food that our host cooked was absolutely delicious. When I got sick, she made me vegetable soup and herbal tea. Clearly, [Arcos Journey Abroad] hooked me up with an excellent living situation.
The education was also exceptional. For a few hours every day, I was in a classroom occupied by my professor and me, nobody else (as I was the only student at level eight on the academy's curriculum). This one-on-one time was very valuable, and it helped my Spanish tremendously. Although I came to Argentina practically fluent, I cannot begin to tell you how much easier speaking the language is after having such an experience. Furthermore, the academy is located right in the city center, which means I could get some pretty good food right before or after class.
Additionally, the excursions were really fun. Our group, comprised of about 8 American kids, got along really well. Within days, we were all friends. This furthered my enjoyment as a student, being able to connect with these other kids. We had the pleasure of visiting everything from La Bombonera (famous soccer stadium, home of the BOCA Juniors), to an authentic Argentinian gaucho ranch. Probably the most memorable experience on the trip was meeting the students of a school in Buenos Aires. We hung out with them a few times while I was there, and that was definitely my favorite part. I had an absolute blast with [Arcos Journey Abroad], and I hope you do the same.
Lastly, I really want to emphasize the need to practice speaking Spanish now, so that when you're in Argentina, you'll be at least fairly comfortable with the language! Helped me a ton :) thanks!
-Zach T, Agoura Hills, CA
Arcos Journeys Abroad is a premier summer study abroad and adventure travel program for high school students ages 14 to 18. Our Active Discovery programs are designed to help you dive into adventure and expand your cultural horizons in Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, and Peru. Join us for the summer of your life!..(more)
Arcos Journeys Abroad is a premier summer study abroad and adventure travel program for high school students ages 14 to 18. Our Spanish, Service, and Cultural Discovery programs are designed to immerse you in the vibrant cultures of Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Argentina, and Peru. Join us for the summer of your life!..(more)
Study abroad in the historic city of Santiago de Compostela! Located in the lush and green Northwest corner of Spain. Santiago is famous for the Camino de Santiago which ends at the Cathedarl and is said to be the final resting place of St. James the Apostle...(more)
Study abroad in the cosmpolitan city of Buenos Aires, Argentina! With Arcos Journeys Abroad you will experience Buenos Aires like a local. Programming includes engaging weekend excursions, daily Spanish classes, afternoon cultural activities, and living with a homestay. Come experience all that this wonderful country has to offer!..(more)
Experience the historic past of Lima mixed with its vibrant modern reality through this unique community service and Spanish program. Volunteer at a government-run after-school program working with children. In the mornings take Spanish classes to improve your language skills, learn more about Peru, its unique cultures, and to enhance the experience of your community service placement...(more)
Perform community service in the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires. Take Spanish classes to familiarize yourself with Argentina and enhance your community service experience. Placements include after-school programs, youth projects, recycling projects, and soup kitchens...(more)
Study abroad in one of the most beautiful countries in the world - Costa Rica! Explore the cloud forests and tropical coastlines of the Central American country while immersing yourself in the Spanish language. The program is based in Heredia, Cosdta Rica. Attend the International Polytechnic University...(more)
Study abroad in the vibrant capital city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Expore the historic neighborhoods and grand avenues of the Paris of South America. Experience the unique cuture and activities that this cosmopolitan city is famous for such as tango shows, museum visits, and theater performances...(more)
Mountains, beach, and Spanish culture! Summit the Mulhacén, the tallest peak on the Iberian peninsula. Go canyoneering in the slot canyons of the Rio Verde. Mountain bike through centuries-old olive orchards above the Alhambra palace. Try your hand at rock climbing and participate in aquatic activities on Spain’s stunning Mediterranean coastline...(more)
Engage in drawing, painting and printmaking in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires! Participate in daily workshops with each week focusing on a different artistic area. Meet local artists and professionals in their field of expertise. Draw inspiration from the city itself through neighborhood tours, museum visits, and cultural activities...(more)
Combine community service and eco adventure in tropical Costa Rica! Perform community service in the town of Atenas and learn first-hand about the local culture. Travel to the rainforests of the Arenal Volcano region for hiking, hot springs, ziplines, and trail work. Then on to the Pacific beaches of Jacó and Manuel Antonio for surfing and whitewater rafting...(more)
Experience the very best that Peru has to offer! Follow the Inca trail exploring the history of Lima, the sand dunes of Huacachina, the mystery of the Nazca Lines, the culture of Cusco, the hot springs of Aguas Calientes, and the majestic heights of Machu Picchu. Learn about the incredibly rich cultures, natural beauty, and history found in Peru...(more)
Study abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico. Experience the colonial charms of this highland city surrounded by lush mountains and indigenous villages. Oaxaca is one of the most unique cities in Mexico, and is an ideal location for language immersion and exploring the country's pre-Hispanic past...(more)
Learn about the challenges of recycling in Buenos Aires. Work alongside youth, community members, and local artists finding unique solutions to complicated urban problems such as waste and recycling. Volunteer at a rural elementary school in tropical Misiones in the north of Argentina. Experience the immensity of Iguazu Falls National Park...(more)
Participate in hands-on workshops in Granada that explore plaster, tile, marquetry and stained glass. Explore this majestic city in southern Spain and see real-life examples of these art forms represented in the beautiful Arabic and Christian architecture. Travel to Malaga, a burgeoning European art center and home to the Picasso Museum...(more)
Study abroad in one of the most ancient and diverse cities in Spain - Granada! Explore the narrow, cobblestoned streets of the former Moorish quarter, the Albaicin, wander the passageways of the Alhambra Palace, or enter the caves of the Gypsies and experience the passion of a flamenco performance!..(more)
Travel to Oaxaca, Mexico for a transformative adventure! Experience the colonial city of Oaxaca. Swim in the mountain springs of Hierve El Agua. Attend surf camp in world-famous Puerto Escondido. Learn to surf or perfect your skills. Participate in other aquatic and outdoor activities...(more)
Immerse yourself in the “pura vida” lifestyle of Costa Rica! Base out of the tropical paradise of La Fortuna and experience all that this wonderful country has to offer through hiking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting and beach exploration. Travel to the Blue Zone on the Pacific Coast to learn about the diet and habits of one of the world's healthiest and longest-living populations. Focus on wellness through exercise, diet, and lifestyle...(more)
Immerse yourself in the culinary arts and ancestral cooking traditions of Oaxaca, Mexico. World-famous for its cuisine, Oaxaca City is an epicenter of Mexican and Latin American food culture. Participate in cooking workshops, meet with local chefs and restaurant owners, visit markets and pick out the ingredients for your cooking class...(more)
Explore the unique diversity of crafts produced by talented local artisans. This program fully immerses you in the art scene and culture of Oaxaca from its origins to the most contemporary expressions. ..(more)
This is the ideal program for teens looking to explore the healthcare field through career exposure, hands-on medical workshops, and learning about the healthcare system in Costa Rica...(more)
Trek across the striking landscapes of Galicia in northern Spain. Experience this centuries old pilgrim’s path. Hike village to village through the countryside before arriving to Santiago de Compostela and the shrine of St. James. Explore ancient churches and monasteries along the way. Sync mind, body, and spirit as you walk your Camino!..(more)
Learn Spanish in one of the most beautiful countries in the world - Costa Rica! Explore the cloud forests and tropical coastlines of this Central American country while immersing yourself in the Spanish language...(more)
Study Spanish in Oaxaca, Mexico. Experience the colonial charms of this highland city surrounded by lush mountains and indigenous villages. Oaxaca is one of the most unique cities in Mexico, and is an ideal location for Spanish language immersion and exploring the country's pre-Hispanic past...(more)
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This trip was such a unique and fun experience! I would definitely recommend it to anyone who's considering. I got to know the language and the city (Granada), and experience the culture through everyday life. The people are friendly, and encouraging to new Spanish speakers, and our hostess was fantastic and welcoming; after a week it felt almost like my second home.