Hi, I’m Monica, a Spanish teacher and host with Spanish Express. Over the years, I’ve met many students who struggle with learning Spanish effectively. They’re stuck in traditional classrooms, craving real-world practice and cultural immersion to truly master the language.
That’s why Spanish Express created the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP)—a unique way to learn Spanish while living with a host family. This program combines personalized Spanish language instruction with an authentic cultural experience, helping students achieve fluency faster.
Meet Anne-Laure | An experienced French Teacher
Recently, Anne-Laure, a French teacher from Bordeaux, joined us for a week of immersive learning. Fluent but eager to refine her grammar and conversational skills, she had a clear goal: to prepare for her upcoming move to Perú. Anne-Laure’s days were filled with tailored Spanish classes, cultural activities, and meaningful conversations, making her learning journey both effective and enjoyable.
Are you ready to learn Spanish in an unforgettable way? Keep reading to explore Anne-Laure’s story and discover how our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) can help you achieve your goals too!
A Shared Passion for Language and Teaching
When Anne-Laure arrived, it was clear we had much in common. As fellow language teachers, we both loved helping students overcome challenges in learning Spanish. This shared passion quickly became the foundation of our connection.
Exchange Ideas for Better Spanish Courses
Anne-Laure’s teaching style was both creative and practical. She believed in designing Spanish courses that connect language to real-life situations, which aligned perfectly with my approach.
We discussed how Spanish immersion programs, like ours, could inspire students to embrace Spanish learning adventures and make their lessons more engaging.
Together, we explored new strategies to enhance Spanish language courses and tackle common learning barriers.
Dive Deep into Teaching Methods
Our discussions about teaching methodologies often extended late into the evening. From crafting interactive Spanish programs to motivating students to learn Spanish effectively, every exchange was meaningful.
Anne-Laure’s dedication to teaching French and at the same time improve her Spanish, especially as she prepared to live in Peru, was inspiring. Her enthusiasm reaffirmed how programs like ours can help learners master Spanish while exploring South America’s vibrant culture.
A Week of Conversations in Motion
The heart of Anne-Laure’s immersion journey was conversation—dynamic, meaningful, and constant. Instead of focusing on traditional grammar drills, we prioritized real-world dialogues that connected to her interests and goals.
We explored topics ranging from cultural differences between Europe and Latin America to environmental sustainability, making every discussion an opportunity to improve her Spanish skills.
Take Learning Outdoors for Real-World Practice
To make her Spanish learning adventure more engaging, we often took our conversations outside. One memorable afternoon, as we walked along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, Anne-Laure shared her dreams of living in Peru.
“I want to speak Spanish as naturally as I do in French,” she said with determination. Her passion for mastering Spanish at her own pace was inspiring.
Connect Language Learning to Personal Growth
Anne-Laure’s commitment to learning Spanish went beyond the classroom. Whether we were discussing the sacred valley or the best Spanish schools in South America, she embraced the challenges of our Spanish immersion program wholeheartedly.
These moments showed how a language course can be more than just lessons—it’s a journey of personal and cultural transformation.
Immersed in Dosrius with Lydia
Immersed in the charm of Dosrius, Anne-Laure’s Spanish learning adventure came to life. With Lydia, my teaching assistant and a native of the town, we explored its quaint streets, chatting with locals and visiting small shops.
Dosrius offered the perfect setting for Anne-Laure to study Spanish while immersing herself in Spanish culture. Every interaction, from ordering a coffee to asking about a shop’s history, became a valuable learning experience.
Lydia’s deep knowledge of the town enriched the visit, as we discovered its traditions and history. Anne-Laure practiced conversational Spanish in real-time, mirroring the immersive experience of top Spanish programs.
These moments boosted her fluency and confidence, preparing her for her future adventures in South America, where she plans to learn Spanish in Peru and while she embraces the vibrant Peruvian culture.
Discovering the Charm of Argentona with Laura
Our next adventure took us to Argentona, a town famous for its rich history and iconic water jugs. Laura, one of my teaching assistants, joined us for this memorable excursion.
As we wandered through peaceful streets, explored historical sites, and visited local shops, Anne-Laure practiced her Spanish with locals.
These real-world interactions helped solidify the vocabulary and grammar we had worked on during her Spanish course.
Embrace Cultural Learning with Laura
Laura’s deep knowledge of Argentona’s history made this outing much more than just a tour. Anne-Laure wasn’t simply learning Spanish; she was absorbing cultural nuances and gaining skills that will serve her well as she prepares to learn Spanish in Peru.
From chatting with Spanish speakers to confidently navigating everyday situations, this experience mirrored the immersive learning environment offered by the best Spanish schools, such as Amauta Spanish School.
Whether exploring bustling cities like Lima or the serene Amazon rainforest, Anne-Laure’s growing fluency will open doors to meaningful experiences in South America, including visiting landmarks like Machu Picchu.
Mataró: A Fusion of Art, Architecture, and Conversation
Our visit to Mataró was a perfect fusion of art, architecture, and Spanish conversation. We began at Nau Gaudí, Antoni Gaudí’s first architectural work, which inspired fascinating discussions about how cultural expressions like architecture and language shape national identity.
Anne-Laure’s curiosity shone as she asked thoughtful questions, diving deeper into the significance of Gaudí’s designs and their influence on Spanish culture.
After exploring the museum, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, letting the Mediterranean breeze guide our conversations. The relaxed setting offered Anne-Laure an ideal opportunity to practice her Spanish, refining her ability to express complex ideas and opinions.
Experiences like this reflect the immersive, hands-on approach of the best Spanish schools, where students learn Spanish in real-world contexts.
By the end of the day, her confidence had grown noticeably, reinforcing her readiness to take on her future in Peru, where rich culture and vibrant cities offer endless opportunities to build on these skills.
Lunch with Nanda in Castelldefels: A Taste of Spain
One of the most memorable experiences of the week was our trip to Castelldefels, where we met Nanda, a fellow Spanish teacher and my close friend.
Over lunch at a seaside restaurant, we indulged in local specialties like freshly grilled fish and paella.
The relaxed setting provided Anne-Laure with an ideal opportunity to practice conversational Spanish while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
Practice Conversational Spanish in a Relaxed Setting
The informal atmosphere allowed Anne-Laure to engage in lively discussions about life in Spain, travel, and food. Nanda’s warmth and friendliness put her at ease, making the conversation flow naturally.
These moments of casual interaction are vital for building fluency and confidence, especially for international students preparing to navigate real-world situations.
Combine Language Learning with Cultural Delights
The blend of delicious food, engaging conversation, and the breathtaking coastal views created a perfect balance of language practice and cultural immersion.
Experiences like this mirror the immersive opportunities offered by the best Spanish schools, helping students like Anne-Laure master the language while enjoying the richness of Spanish culture.
It’s moments like these that make Spanish programs so effective, whether in Spain or preparing to work and study Spanish in Peru.
Experience the Wonders of Catalunya en Miniatura
After a satisfying lunch, we took a short trip to Catalunya en Miniatura, a captivating theme park showcasing miniature replicas of Catalonia’s most iconic landmarks.
From the intricate details of the unique Sagrada Família to the majestic Montserrat, each model sparked fascinating discussions about history, architecture, and culture.
Anne-Laure’s enthusiasm was evident as she explored the park, using this unique setting to practice her Spanish while diving into the stories behind each landmark.
Learn Through Cultural Exploration
This excursion wasn’t just about sightseeing; it was a chance for Anne-Laure to engage in meaningful conversations that enhanced her Spanish skills.
Discussing the history and significance of each site provided her with a new context for language practice, similar to what the best Spanish schools offer through their immersive Spanish programs. These moments brought her one step closer to achieving the fluency needed for her future in Perú.
Blend Education with Fun
The combination of learning and leisure made this mini-adventure particularly memorable. It reminded Anne-Laure of the cultural richness Spain has to offer while reinforcing the importance of balancing structured lessons with free activities.
This playful approach to learning mirrors the immersive experiences awaiting students who study Spanish in Peru, where every interaction, from tours of Machu Picchu to exploring Cusco’s bustling streets, becomes a valuable learning opportunity.
Hike Through Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor
As the week drew to a close, we ventured into Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor, a stunning nature reserve celebrated for its expansive views and lush greenery. This serene setting was perfect for Anne-Laure, whose passion for environmental sustainability and love for the outdoors made the experience especially meaningful.
As we hiked, our conversations flowed effortlessly, touching on her dreams of living and learning Spanish in Peru and how language bridges cultures and creates understanding.
The tranquil atmosphere of the park allowed for reflective discussions, offering Anne-Laure a unique opportunity to practice her Spanish in a relaxed, real-world context. By the end of the hike, it was clear that her language skills had grown significantly, and she had gained fresh perspectives on her future.
Peru offers so much for students like her, from vibrant cities to opportunities to engage with the country’s rich culture and history. We wrapped up the day with a visit to a nearby sanctuary, a peaceful spot that offered a moment to reflect on her journey and the progress she had made.
From Classroom Conversations to Peruvian Dreams: A Friendship Built Through Immersion
Anne-Laure’s immersion experience was more than just learning Spanish—it was about forming a meaningful connection. Throughout the week, our shared love for teaching, cooking, and outdoor adventures transformed structured Spanish lessons into an enriching and personal journey.
What began as a typical Spanish program quickly evolved into a friendship, one rooted in mutual respect and a shared passion for growth.
Turn Lessons into Lifelong Memories
The ease of our conversations, both inside and outside the classroom, created a bond that will last long after the program ended. Whether discussing teaching techniques or planning for her future in Peru, Anne-Laure embraced every challenge with grace and determination.
These moments reminded me why programs like ours are invaluable—not just for teaching Spanish, but for fostering connections that span countries and cultures.
Prepare for New Adventures in Peru
As Anne-Laure sets her sights on learning Spanish in Peru, I am proud of how much progress she’s made. From intensive classes to casual conversations, her journey mirrors the kind of immersive experience offered by the best Spanish schools.
Peru offers incredible opportunities for students like Anne-Laure, from exploring the lost city of Machu Picchu to navigating vibrant cities like Cusco.
Our time together was a great reminder of how language learning can build bridges, create new friends, and prepare students for adventures in countries across South America.
Start Your Spanish Learning Journey Today
Anne-Laure’s story shows how immersive learning can transform not only your language skills but also your life.
Imagine studying Spanish in Perú, exploring vibrant cities like Cusco, or connecting with the history of the Incas—all while building confidence in your speaking abilities. Spanish Express offers the perfect program to make this dream a reality.
Our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program combines tailored Spanish classes, cultural experiences, and real-world practice to help you learn faster and more effectively. Don’t wait—take the first step toward fluency and unforgettable adventures today.
Contact Us to start your journey!
