I decided to go on a language study trip to learn English and Italian in greater depth. Italian because I have Italian roots and English to improve my professional standing. I also wanted to experience something different and enjoy a really warm summer. That's why I went to Siena in Italy for five weeks over the summer.
First, I went to New York for two months from the beginning of April to the beginning of June 2012, to Tarrytown to be precise. There I lived on the EF campus in a room for four. If you're used to Swiss standards, it's a big change. I think it would have been better to go to a family. Nevertheless, I liked it. I made a lot of friends on campus, especially from South America.
Almost immediately afterwards, I went to Siena in Italy for five weeks, to the Dante Alighieri School. This was arranged by ESL. There I lived in a shared flat with two young women who were studying and working in Siena. I immediately liked this better than New York, as it was simply more comfortable and I could cook for myself. In general, the food in Italy was worlds better than in New York. Personally, I really like Italian and am happy when I can now have light conversation with my parents in Italian.
The providers were EF and ESL. I was satisfied with both providers, but ESL seemed more "familiar" to me overall.
My tips are very clear: