Experience report by Evelin Spino about her Spanish language study trip to Guatemala

Evelin Spino from Pfäffikon ZH has a
Language study trip to Guatemala

Why did you decide to go on a language study trip?

To learn Spanish better and get to know another culture and another country. I also wanted to really feel the language.

In which country and in which city did your language study trip take place?

I traveled to Guatemala and stayed in Antigua. Guatemala is located in Central America between Mexico and Honduras. Antigua is an interesting small town with many sights. The city is visited by many tourists. Spanish is spoken in Guatemala.

When did you complete the Spanish language study trip? How long did it last?

In April 2008 for three months, after which the journey from Central America to South America began.

How satisfied were you with your language study trip? What did you particularly like?

The first host family was not satisfactory. They gave us a separate apartment and we could only have dinner together with the host family. But we actually wanted to live with the host family so that we could get to know the culture and use the language properly. That's why we changed families and then it was great. The school and the second family were unique. We developed a friendship with the family! I really enjoyed that. In addition to the Spanish language school, I attended a salsa course, so I got to know a lot of local people.

What did the language study trip do for you personally and for your career?

A language study trip strengthens your personality. I've become more open-minded and humble. It helps me a lot professionally. It always goes down very well when looking for a job, as they realize that you are open to the world and have a good command of Spanish.

What tips would you give to anyone interested in a language study trip?

Make sure you do as much as possible during your language study trip. I also recommend choosing a host family for your accommodation so that you can get to know the culture better and use the language more.