General Questions

What is Raíces Spanish School?

Raíces Spanish School is a well-established language academy located in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. With over two decades of experience, the school offers a range of Spanish courses tailored to different proficiency levels and interests. It prides itself on academic excellence, cultural authenticity, personalized attention, and community development.

How experienced are your teachers?

Our teachers are highly experienced and passionate about teaching Spanish. With over two decades of history, Raíces Spanish School has a strong reputation for academic excellence and a unique teaching approach that emphasizes practical application and cultural immersion.

Can I receive university credit for the courses I take?

Students should consult their home institutions about credit transfers. We can provide necessary documentation about hours of instruction, course content, and levels of completion.

What materials do I need for the classes?

We provide the necessary materials for your Spanish classes. However, we recommend students to bring their own notebooks and pens for personal note-taking. Some materials are available for purchase.

Can I start my Spanish course at any time?

Yes, you can start your Spanish course at any time. We offer flexible start dates to accommodate your schedule.

Do you offer certificates upon course completion?

Yes, we provide certificates of completion for our students once they finish their Spanish course with us.

Learning Options & Services

What if I’m a total beginner in Spanish?

No problem at all! Our courses cater to all levels of Spanish proficiency, from total beginners to advanced learners. We will place you in the course that best matches your current level.

Can I choose between in-person and online lessons?

Absolutely! We offer both in-person lessons in many locations in Ecuador and online lessons. You can choose the option that best fits your needs and circumstances.

What types of classes do you offer?

We offer a variety of classes including individual or group lessons, virtual or in-person lessons, lessons with a specific objective, classes that include activities such as tours and visits to indigenous communities, Spanish while traveling programs, and volunteering opportunities.

What is the “Spanish with a specific purpose” methodology?

“Spanish with a specific purpose” is a teaching methodology we use to design lessons tailored to the individual goals and interests of our students. For instance, we provide special classes for students who are Spanish teachers themselves, focusing on various themes.

Immersion Tours & Activities

What does the Spanish Immersion Tour include?

Our Spanish Immersion Tours offer a unique blend of language learning and cultural exploration. You’ll receive daily Spanish lessons while exploring different parts of Ecuador. Accommodations, meals, and activities are included in the program.

Can I customize my Spanish Immersion Tour?

Yes, we offer customizable itineraries that can include various cities and regions in Ecuador. We’re here to help you create a memorable learning experience that suits your interests and goals.

What are the living arrangements during the Spanish Immersion Tours?

Accommodations vary depending on the location and the tour. Typically, students are accommodated in shared guest houses or homestays with local families. This allows students to practice Spanish and learn about the local culture in a comfortable and safe environment.

How does Raíces Spanish School ensure student safety during the Spanish Immersion Tours?

Student safety is our top priority. We work closely with local communities and tour guides to ensure that our students have a safe and enjoyable experience. We encourage all students to obtain travel and health insurance.

What kind of activities are included in the classes with activities?

For our classes with activities, mornings are typically spent studying, while afternoons are devoted to various activities that allow students to immerse themselves in Ecuadorian culture and practice their Spanish. These activities may include:

  • Cultural workshops, such as cooking or dancing classes.
  • Visits to local markets and historical sites.
  • Nature walks and excursions to explore the beautiful surroundings of Baños de Agua Santa, the charming streets of Cuenca, the tranquil waterfalls in Peguche, the lush plantations in Las Delicias, and more.
  • Community engagement activities where students can interact with local residents.
  • Visits to museums and cultural centers.
  • Conversation exchanges with local Spanish speakers.

You can choose which activities to participate in.

Accommodations & Living

What kind of accommodation options are available?

Raíces Spanish School offers several accommodation options for students including homestays with local families, hostels, and hotels. The accommodation you choose will depend on your preference for comfort, privacy, and level of immersion in local culture.

Are meals included in the accommodation?

Meals are typically included in homestays, and host families often serve traditional Ecuadorian food. For other types of accommodation, like hostels or hotels, meals may or may not be included. You can check the specific details when booking your accommodation.

Do the accommodations have internet access?

Yes, most accommodations, including homestays are equipped with internet access. However, internet speeds may vary.

Can I stay with a host family?

Yes, staying with a host family is a popular option among our students as it provides an immersive cultural experience. It’s a great way to practice your Spanish daily, learn about Ecuadorian customs, and build lasting friendships.

Pricing & Payments

How much does it cost to study at Raíces Spanish School?

The cost of studying at Raíces Spanish School depends on the type of course, duration, and accommodation chosen. Please contact us directly for the most current pricing information.

What is included in the course fee?

The course fee generally includes course materials, instruction, and some extracurricular activities. Some materials are available for purchase. Accommodation and meals may or may not be included depending on the program. We recommend checking the details of your specific program for clarity.

Is there a discount for long-term enrollment or for enrolling with a friend or family member?

We may offer discounts for long-term enrollment, but not for students enrolling with friends or family members. Please contact the school for the most current information on discounts and promotions.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept a variety of payment methods including bank transfers, Xoom.com, credit cards, and cash. For international students, we recommend checking with the school for the most convenient options.

Travel and Visa Information

Do I need a visa to study in Ecuador?

Citizens of many countries do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) in Ecuador. However, for longer stays or if you are not from a visa-exempt country, you will need to apply for a visa. We recommend checking with the Ecuadorian consulate or embassy in your country for the most current visa information.

What should I pack for my stay in Ecuador?

Ecuador’s climate varies depending on the region, so pack accordingly. Generally, it’s good to have comfortable clothes for classes, outdoor gear for excursions, a rain jacket, and any personal items or medications you may need. Also, bring along a power adapter compatible with Ecuador’s electrical outlets (Type A & B, 120V).

Do you offer airport pickup services?

Yes, Raíces Spanish School can arrange airport pickup services for students. Please let us know in advance if you require this service.

Is international health insurance necessary?

We highly recommend that students obtain comprehensive health insurance that covers medical expenses in Ecuador for the duration of their stay.

What vaccines are recommended before traveling to Ecuador?

It’s generally recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, and yearly flu shots. Additionally, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended due to potential exposure through food or water. In some cases, a Yellow Fever vaccine might be suggested depending on your travel plans within the country. Always consult with a healthcare professional well in advance of your trip to get the most accurate advice based on your specific health history and travel itinerary.

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