It has always been my wish to be able to speak Spanish. As I had just enough savings and time, I decided to make my wish come true. I also wanted to get to know a new country, its people and culture.
My language study trip took place in Spain. I went to the southernmost point of the country, to Tarifa.
I was in Spain for 3 months in 2010.
It was one of the most brilliant times so far, as I was finally able to fulfill my dream of learning Spanish. I learned so much, met so many different people and made great friendships that have lasted to this day. What I liked most was the small, friendly town with its ambience and friendly locals. There was also a brilliant spot for kitesurfing outside the town, but it's just as great if you're just lying in a hammock watching the athletes.
This language study trip to Spain had a huge impact on me, as I was able to broaden my horizons and develop personally during this time. Thanks to my knowledge of Spanish, I was able to make new contacts back in Switzerland that would not have been possible due to the language barrier. I also taught German to foreign speakers. If people occasionally didn't understand something, I was able to explain the context to them in Spanish, which helped them to understand and made a lot of things easier.
If you decide to go on a language study trip, then be there with your whole being and not partly at home. Get involved with the new culture and people, learn as much as you can from them and enjoy this new experience. Approach the locals and only speak the local language during your entire stay. In addition, behave in a friendly and respectful manner, as you must be aware that you are always representing your country of origin.
I only did the whole thing through one provider. This was the organization Boa lingua.
Boa lingua is highly recommended. They prepared everything tip-top, helped me with everything and worked very competently. I was absolutely satisfied.