| Learning Spanish Language before joining a volunteer program is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience real Guatemala . Global Crossroad's Spanish program organizes Spanish training in Antigua . Antigua has been declared UNESCO world heritage and is recognized by its authentic colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and traditional crafts. It has a warm and pleasant climate all year around, with an average tempature of 75°F. Cool breezes combined with the high altitude (5000 feet above sea level) make this town rather cool at night, so sweaters and light jackets are advisable. The rainy season starts around May 15 and lasts until October 15, with brief but strong afternoon showers.
Within 20 minutes by bus lie two indigenous villages, renowned for their weavings, handicrafts and woodcarvings. At a 70 mile radius are various lakes, volcanoes, Pacific Ocean beaches, archaeological sites and local markets.
Alameda Spanish Academy is an institution created to offer a profesional and personalized instruction of Spanish as a second language. The Academy usually offers private classes, but can arrange group classes if wanted. Their general program is based on visual, verbal and cultural communication, rather than a rigid grammatical way of teaching. The program includes traditional tales, local stories and songs. There are specific programs, focused on the different voluntary projects the students are joining after the Spanish program.
On your first day, you will go through an orientation process, and take the placement test and oral interview with a teacher. The teacher will then place you in an appropriate level. Once your classes begin, your teacher will continually assess your ability in all skills of Spanish.
Spanish levels:
Beginner: Students will develop a basic familiarity with and ability to use simple grammar and day-to-day conversational skills.
Intermediate: You will participate in active conversation. You will develop a more complex understanding of grammar and improve reading and listening skills.
Advanced: Students will communicate effectively with a wide vocabulary and accurate grammar. They will develop analytic reading skills, complex written skills, and the ability to logically debate and defend opinions in a professional manner.
Home stay with Guatemalan families
Students will be staying with a middle-class Guatemalan family. Students are matched with carefully selected families according to each student's requests. Students are placed in a private room but they sometimes need to share the bathroom. Three meals are provided: breakfast, lunch and dinner (except on Sundays). Home stays are conveniently located, close to downtown and the Spanish school, and in safe neighborhoods. Life in the homestay makes it possible for students to practice what they have learned during their Spanish classes, discover Guatemalan culture, and make friendships that last a lifetime. Our partner also offers the opportunity to extend the stay with the family after the Spanish program or after returning from the volunteer project. Students should inform the Academy to make sure the family is available. The student also will need to pay for the extra nights at the Academy.
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Spanish Language Program 