study spanish in guatemala
The best value in all of Latin America, Guatemala is a definite must for any serious Spanish student. Spanish Language schools in Guatemala are plentiful and cheap and with accents that are crisp and clear, this country can’t be beat. Throw some amazing scenery and you have a recipe for Spanish success. Antigua is the best city by far to start if this is your 1st trip to Guatemala. It is known for it’s Spanish Schools and hospitality to travelers. Other notable cities are Xela, and San Pedro on Lake Atitlan. Avoid Guatemala City if you can, busy, crime ridden, and expensive.
Getting There: Guatemala City is the main point of entry. Most US flights originate out of Houston or Orlando and prices are reasonable. Tour companies have private vans to transport you from one destination to the next for decent rates or you can use a myriad of Chicken Buses (camionetas) that are dirt cheap but uncomfortable in western standards. For your 1st time in Guatemala, ask your school about transportation options, usually they can hire private van for your pick-up. Pricier option but hassle free and safer.
Accent: Clean, slow Spanish; great for beginners
Currency: $1 USD to 8.3 Quetzals
- 4 + hours of private Spanish classes a week (I have noted where groups rates were listed)
- 7 days accommodation at host family
- 6 days of meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner). No meals on Sunday.
- free/reduced price excursions with schools
Popular Cities of Study:
- Antigua~ Colonial town, most beautiful in Guatemala; most popular for studying Spanish
- San Pedro, Lake Atitlan~Small village on Lake Atitlan with large selection of Spanish schools and one of the cheapest options
- Quetzaltenango~Also known as Xela [pr: shay-la], best full immersion option in Guatemala.
Accommodation: Further away you stay from Antigua, the more budget options present themselves, but you can expect to pay $25-40 in Antigua, $6-20 in San Pedro and $5-20 in Xela
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