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 program for high school students. It is the division of Arcos Learning Abroad dedicated to working with participants ages 14 to 18 years of age. Join us for the summer of your life!..(more)
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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 horseback riding. Then on to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific for surfing and whitewater rafting...(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)
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Study abroad in the fascinating 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)
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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)
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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.