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Spanish + Adventure Travel in South America
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Travelling Classroom, Various destinations, Venezuela
Minimum Age: 18 / Average Age: 23
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| Venezuela | Spanish & Adventure Programs | Short Term Programs | Long Term Programs | Dates & Prices | Registration | Accommodation | Visa |
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Venezuela
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| Adventure Travel and Spanish Courses in Venezuela, South America - Go kayaking, hiking or relax on the beach - Volunteering available | An unforgettable experience that will stick with for the rest of your life. The possibilities for adventure in Venezuela are almost inexhaustible and you’ll visit the very best places that Venezuela has to offer. Furthermore, we try and include as many options for adventure sport as possible. You are looking for a lifetime experience? Where better to learn Spanish than in a Spanish speaking country, submerged in her culture and surrounded by her seductive tongue. Our adventure travel + Spanish language program in Venezuela will take you from basic, ‘hola, una cerveza por favor’ Spanish, to an advanced level in as little as 3 to 6 months without even realising that you have been in class. Our classes are informal and given in the open air; on Caribbean beaches, in steaming jungles and even on top of eerie Tepuys. In addition to teaching Spanish in a fun and useful way, we combine local culture, folklore and learn about the local fauna and flora. |  | Recently we’ve added short theoretical training courses to help prepare you safely for your adventure travel in Venezuela, as well as all following travels. These include, ‘navigation’ on land and at sea, ‘meteorology’, so you’ll be able to make weather predictions before heading out and ‘survival basics’, which will teach you how to make a shelter, find food and water regardless of the terrain and build a fire whatever the weather. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to learn how to cook various national and international dishes, using both the kitchen and bush-fires. We’ll also teach you all the skills you need to be confident in a kayak for excursions at sea in the rivers of the Orinoco Delta and the skills you’ll need to enjoy mountain-biking to the max. | %20of%20DSC00640.JPG "Kayaking in Venezuela, Learn Spanish") | You’ll be part of the everyday-life of the fishing villages of the Mochima National Park and see the traditional ways of the farming people in Caripe visiting coffee plantations. In the Orinoco Delta you’ll immerse yourself in the wildlife learning all about the exciting flora and fauna and join the Warao Indians to experience a culture that has remained virtually unchanged for 20,000 years. In the Gran Sabana you’ll meet the psychic Pemon Indians in their land of mystical Tepuys and hear of their unusual visitors. And most fun of all, (well we find it funny), Salsa, Merengue, Vallenato and Tambor lessons are given throughout the program to help arm you with the skills you’ll need to help seduce the Latinos. | %20of%20IMG_0170.JPG "Beach, Learn Spanish while traveling around Venezuela") | | Whether you choose a 2, 3 or 6 months or a short term program it’s almost impossible not to gain a good command of the Spanish language, an understanding of Latin culture and have developed skills that you’ll find useful for all following adventures. | |
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Spanish & Adventure Programs
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Adventure, education and personal development courses in Venezuela.
SPANISH + ADVENTURE is own unique, all inclusive, blend of adventure travel, training, language, all of which we run harmoniously together over two, three or six months. Groups consist of students, experienced group leaders, adventure guides and language teachers. | Everything is included in the price, your food, accommodation, expeditions, guides, transportation (except flights) and tuition. Based in Venezuela, our local partner offers a unique combination of factors which lend themselves perfectly to adventure travel and education. Where else could you find a diversity of golden palm fringed beaches, exotic jungle, spectacular and mysterious mountains, lush valleys and a multitude of waterfalls, mixed with ancient indigenous cultures and an exotic Latino language. You’ll see and experience the best of what the country has to offer whilst learning Spanish and all sorts of other stuff to prepare you for adventures in South America. Culturewise, this country surprises us every time with its mix of ancient indigenous tribes still intact and living fascinating and primitive lifestyles. Much still remains of the Spanish colonial culture with many historical sites and museums to visit. You’ll also find an abundance of artisans all over the country from the many indigenous groups, which are cheap to buy, or you can join in and create yourself. |  | From our bases at one of Venezuela’s best beaches Playa Colorada (the red beach!), and Merida (a vibrant, safe, student city) you take adventure travel expeditions while learning Spanish. You can have jeep safaris to the amazing Gran Sabana, walk to the top of Roriama (The lost world), leisurely sea kayak beautiful Caribbean islands and the exotic Orinoco Delta Jungle, and visit remote untouched areas. You can experience the culture of the Warao and Pemon Indians, and see incredible jungle and savannah wildlife. Your Spanish classes won’t be in classrooms but in the ‘open air’ of the real South America! There is a maximum of 10 students per Spanish group, the average group size is 6 students. You don’t have to be very fit – just have a sense of adventure and want to experience life! All these trips, accommodation, meals and more are included in the program price. | %20of%20DSC00793.JPG "Spanish & adventure travel in Venezuela, Learn Spanish") | From alongside ‘the beautiful beach’ of Playa Colorada, it’s a hop step and a jump into the warm rich-waters of the Caribbean. At the lodge we sleep in beds and hammocks and on the move, use tents and hammocks depending on the terrain. All classes are given in the open air or on location whilst travelling, making the most of Venezuela’s tropical climate.
Apart from having continual doses of fun, project adventure is a full immersion into the best of Venezuela’s locations, her Latin-American culture and her seductive tongue. The six month program includes a spell of work experience of your choice. Students do a placement test upon arrival on the weekend or on Monday morning.
|  | | Spanish levels offered: Beginners, intermediate and advanced. If there is not enough students of the same level, students will receive 15 private lessons/week instead of 20 group lessons/week. | |
Program Summaries
| | | Short Term Programs
| - INTENSIVE SPANISH COURSE (20 lessons per week), Start Dates: every Monday
- 5 + 8 WEEK SPANISH & VOLUNTEER PROGRAM, Start Dates: 1st and 3rd Monday of a month
- 4 WEEKS SPANISH & MASS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM, Start Date: 6th July
- 8 WEEKS SPANISH & DIVE PROGRAM, Start Dates: 2nd March, 27 April, 22 June, 20 July, 28 September 2009
| Long Term Programs
| 6 Month Program
Lodge Playa Colorada/Mochima National Park / Caripe / Orinoco Delta / Gran Sabana and Roraima / Canaima and Angel falls / and another location of your choice for work experience
- Spanish / Training / Adventure / Volunteer work experience program
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December
3 Month Program
Lodge Playa Colorada/Mochima National Park / Caripe / Orinoco Delta / Gran Sabana and Roraima
- Spanish / Training / Adventure / Volunteer work experience program
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December
2 Month Program
Lodge Playa Colorada/Mochima National Park / Caripe / Orinoco Delta / Gran Sabana and Roraima /
Spanish / Training / Adventure
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December
- 3 MONTH BOLIVARIAN ADVENTURE
Learn Spanish & Volunteer in Venezuela and Ecuador
Start Dates: 1st Monday in February, April, June & September
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Short Term Programs
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Intensive Spanish Course (20 lessons per week)
| Students may enrol in this program at either our Posada in Merida, in the foothills of the Venezuelan Andes, or our Caribbean Lodge on Playa Colorada in Mochima National Park. The program is the same at each location and features 20 structured lessons per week tailored to your ability. Each morning Monday-Friday you will receive 4 lessons intensive general Spanish tuition comprising four 45 minute sessions with 15 minute breaks. Our teachers have been carefully selected after considering their qualifications, experience and enthusiasm - and an ability to create a friendly atmosphere where the students have theconfidence to communicate, express themselves and learn. Classes focus on developing communication skills so that students are able to put their knowledge to practical use as soon as they step outside the classroom. Our teaching method enables students to develop basic skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. The idea is to learn Spanish in a natural and spontaneous way, just as students have learned their mother tongue. | Our students speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical reallife situations: the basic syllabus is supplemented by special exercises, such as role-play, situational dialogues and work projects. Outside the classroom the learning process continues as you are immersed in Spanish language and culture. The price of the program includes accommodation Monday through Sunday, Spanish lessons and course materials as well as breakfast and dinner. There are many local and inexpensive options for lunch including making a sandwich at the Posada/Lodge! There are lots of interesting things to do where we are located or you can just chill and acclimatize after long haul flight. Half-day and weekend activity options are available both in Merida and Playa Colorada. Our team will assist you in planning your activities in the afternoon after the course.
Start Dates: every Monday |  | |
Spanish & Volunteer Program (5 or 8 weeks)
| 1 or 4 weeks of Studying Spanish (20 lessons per week) coupled with an additional 4 weeks of volunteer service work (5 or 8 weeks in total)
| This program involves combining the Intensive Spanish program for week 1 (of the 5 week Learn Spanish & Volunteer Program) or weeks 1-4 (of the 8 week Learn Spanish & Volunteer Program) with an additional 4 weeks of Volunteer Work in either Merida or Playa Colorada (depending on location of work placement – see below).
The 5 weeks program is recommended for students that already have learned Spanish in the past and just refresh their knowledge during 1 week before starting the volunteering experience whereas the 8 weeks program is rather meant for students who don´t have any or only little Spanish skills and therefore do 4 weeks Spanish course before starting the volunteer program.
Prices include: Intensive Spanish lessons (20 hours per week) PLUS 10 hours additional Spanish lessons per week during volunteering weeks, volunteer placement and support, accommodation in either Merida or Playa Colorada for length of program, breakfast and dinner (students have use of kitchen facilities at the lodge to prepare own lunches and snacks), airport pickup and transfer to Merida or Playa Colorada as appropriate. Start Dates: 1st and 3rd Monday of a month |  | This year we are offering the following Volunteer Work options students can choose from:
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“Street Kids” Fundación Don Bosco [based in Merida] (please click here)
“Street Kids” Fundación Don Bosco (based in Merida) aimed at helping kids from particularly difficult circumstances. Many are street kids – and the aim is to get them off the streets and into a safe supporting environment. There are three-stages to this difficult task: Stage 1 “Off the street” - Theschool provides food, clothes and shelter. Stage 2 “Making a Connection” – Helping educate the children, including: social education, elementary school curriculum, physical education, art and craft classes and extra activities. Stage 3 “The Next Step” - Foster homes. Eventually the children are offered the opportunity to return to family life. A variety of chosen families are ready to take kids into their homes and a new life.
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ABANSA (Charity Organization for abandoned children) [based in Merida] (please click here)
ABANSA (Charity Organization for abandoned children) (based in Merida) has been established in 1985. A Christian Organization focused on being an efficient alternative in the prevention of juvenile delinquency and
maladaptation of tomorrow’s grownups, providing assistance to orphans, abandoned children, children living under precarious circumstances or needing special attention. The Association was created understanding the importance of such assistance as cities grow and with it the number of people living in extreme poverty increasing the number of abandoned, mistreated and sexually abused children. For more information see: www.abansa.com |
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Zoo/Animal Sanctuary [based in Merida] (please click here)
Zoo/Animal Sanctuary (based in Merida). This was initially a zoo created as a tourist attraction but has now developed into an animal sanctuary helping injured and sick wild animals. All injured and sick animals are cared for with the ultimate goal of returning them to their natural, wild habitat.
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Warao Indian School in the Orinoco Delta [program starts in Playa Colorada] (please click here)
Warao Indian School in the Orinoco Delta (program starts in Playa Colorada) – teaching assignments based in Orinoco Delta Lodge. This school was started up to give the children of the families living in the vicinity of, and working at the lodge, a better chance to integrate into our society, and also to teach them their own Warao culture. Students assist local teachers in the daily activities and lessons. In addition students are expected to help out in the lodge in the evenings.
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“Jakera Club” [based in Playa Colorada] (please click here)
“Jakera Club” (based in Playa Colorada). This was started in 2002 and is based in the fishing village of Playa Colorada where our Caribbean Lodge is situated. Projects include replanting of trees in the surrounding hillside (to help prevent landslide), marine conservation at La Piscina and working in a wild animal sanctuary. We work closely with the local community to make Playa Colorada a fun place for all to enjoy – we also organize games and events and help to keep the beach and recreational areas clean and safe. One off projects have included building a small base ball stadium, volley ball court and help maintain the football pitch. Local volunteers and students work together to make this a very rewarding and successful program.
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High School Community Project [based in Playa Colorada] (please click here)
High School Community Project (based in Playa Colorada). This is probably our biggest undertaking so far. We will renovate, practically rebuild, the whole high school! We have made good progress already in 2007 thanks to an influx of summer students in July and August, but still have a long way to go. A great community project for students looking to work with locals and polish off their conversational skills.
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Spanish & Mass Volunteer Program (4 weeks)
| Start Dates: 6th July Building on the success of our first MASS program in summer 2008, we have now set our sights on an ecological project... On 21st September 2007 a natural disaster befell Playa Colorada, where we have our Caribbean Lodge. A massive land-slide – land from the hills that overlook the village – finally gave way after an extended rainy season sending huge, thundering quantities of earth, mud and rocks down into the village and through to the beach. It was the poor people who were hardest hit, as family homes were wiped out. A real life disaster. Fortunately and remarkably nobody was killed - the event occurred in the afternoon when most were away from home working at the beach. | However, there was wide spread destruction, over 60 ranchos (houses from the poor area) were lost - many families losing everything, the village high school, local shops and beach restaurants were also all destroyed - the village infrastructure has had to be rebuilt and a community start over. In 2008 we set ourselves an ambitious task of building a Community Centre to create a new focus or hub for the village. For 2009 we wish to make a strategic contribution to reduce the likelihood of another devastating landslide. We are going to restock/restore/recreate areas of woodlands and forest that once existed in the hills immediately above the village but which have been deforested or otherwise removed and lost over a period of time. This project will also have secondary benefits to the ecosystem – but it should be emphasized that the main reason for this project is to protect the topography above the village, and in so doing reduce the risk of a recurrence of the natural disaster that happened in 2007. In 2008 we tentatively started some work – negotiating with locals, identifying and clearing certain areas which we considered most suitable for reforestation. We have also been identifying sources of native tree stock.
|  | | This is a unique and ambitious project and includes the following features: | - Primary objective is to solve erosion and slope stability problems in the hills immediately overlooking and converging on the beachside village of Playa Colorada
- Secondary objective is ecological as the resulting forest can provide both ecosystem and resource benefits and has the potential to become a ‘carbon sink’
- Four weeks ‘officially’ starting Monday 6th July until Sunday 2nd August (however, students/travellers welcome to arrive earlier and/or stay later by arrangement).
- Student volunteers will be based at the Jakera Caribbean Lodge where accommodation will be in hammocks and breakfast and dinner provided every day
- Student volunteers will also receive 10 lessons of Spanish classes a week and take part in adventure activities (to include introduction to sea kayaking, three day Mochima kayak expedition, climbing wall training and 30m waterfall abseil)
|  | Prices include: 4 weeks of intensive Spanish lessons (40 hours total), volunteer work placement and activities listed above, accommodation for length of program, breakfast and dinner*, and airport pickup and transfer to Playa Colorada.
* Students have use of kitchen facilities at the lodge to prepare own lunches and snacks. | |
Spanish & Dive Program (8 weeks)
| | Train to be a PADI certified Divemaster & Learn Spanish! | Get a PADI Professional Qualification, dive in some of the best diving spots in the world, have 80 Spanish lessons, sea kayak, abseil down waterfalls, explore pristine beaches, swim in beautiful crystal clear waters and see an amazing spectrum of marine life that includes sea turtles, manta rays and morays!
Based at our Caribbean Lodge in Playa Colorada we begin our 8 weeks of adventure learning the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Open Water and Advanced Open Water diving qualifications in the form of lectures, skills exercises, and qualifying dives that will cover a variety of topics including how to set up equipment and carry out safety procedures. Learning how to dive responsibly will see us gaining our Rescue Diver qualification, which involves learning a variety of lifesaving skills. With these lifesaving skills under our diving belts, the final three weeks of learning commence to gain the crème de la crème of diving qualifications, the ‘Divemaster’.
|  | Days will be long and often hard work, but the resulting satisfaction of gaining a Divemaster qualification in some of the most beautiful dive spots in the world will make all the hard graft all the more worthwhile! Each day four sessions (45min each) of Spanish will be fitted around our diving, with learning that is designed to be interactive and spontaneous. Prices include: All diving instruction* by PADI registered dive school and qualified instructors, course materials, intensive Spanish lessons and activities listed, accommodation at Caribbean Lodge on Playa Colorada, breakfast and dinner** and airport pickup and transfer to Playa Colorada. * If you have PADI scuba diving qualifications already then a discount is available on listed prices.
** Students have use of kitchen facilities at the lodge to prepare own lunches and snacks... Start Dates: 2nd March, 27 April, 22 June, 20 July, 28 September 2009 |  | |
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Long Term Programs
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Travelling Classroom (8, 12 or 24 weeks)
| Our award winning travelling classroom program is a unique blend of learning Spanish and travelling adventure. Based in a beautiful country of huge diversity with golden palm fringed beaches, exotic jungles, spectacular and mysterious mountains, ancient indigenous cultures and the beat of exotic Latino! Based at our Caribbean Lodge on one of Venezuela’s best beaches, Playa Colorada (the coloured beach!), in Mochima National Park, you take adventure travel expeditions while learning Spanish. There are approximately 100 lessons (8 week program), 150 lessons (12 week program) and 180 hours (24 week program) of Spanish classes. | %20of%20DSC00591.JPG "Learn Spanish while traveling around Venezuela, Adventure program") | The program includes jeep safaris to the amazing Gran Sabana, walk to the top of Roraima (The Lost World), and leisurely sea kayaking amongst pristine Caribbean islands and the exotic Orinoco Delta Jungle, and remote untouched areas. We will introduce you to the culture of the Warao and Pemon indigenous Indians, and you will live in lush primary jungle and savannah terrain. Your Spanish classes won’t be in stuffy classrooms but in the ‘open air’ of the real South America! You don’t have to be super fit – just have a sense of adventure and want to experience life! All trips, accommodation, breakfast and dinner (plus lunches when travelling)*, pickup from Barcelona airport and transfer to Caribbean Lodge upon arrival, and more are included in the program price.
| %20of%20DSC00548.JPG "Traveling classroom, Learn Spanish while travelling around Venezuela") | | * Students have use of kitchen facilities at the lodge to prepare own lunches and snacks... | Weekly Itinerary
| Location
| Culture
| Activities Description
| Week 1-2
| Playa Colorada The Lodge | Intro to modern Venezuela with emphasis on etiquette and safety. “Cassava” preparation.
| Intensive Spanish Language. Trips to islands, waterfalls and neighboring villages. Introduction to local cooking and culture including Salsa and Merengue dancing. 3-day Kayaking expedition and Dolphin encounter. Introduction to rock climbing/abseiling
| Week 3
| Caripe Camping in tents | Coffee plantations and local fruit and veg farming culture.
| Intensive Spanish. Tour to Caripe including Study of Guachero cave and its inhabitants. Visits to coffee plantations, fruit and veg farms, and local markets. Mountain trekking to waterfalls, caves and camping.
| Week 4-5
| Orinoco Delta Kayaking expedition. Sleeping in hammocks | Ancient Warao culture and language.
| 10 – 12 day kayak trip deep into the Orinoco Delta. Visiting remote Warao families and settlements. Exploring the waterways, jungles and sabanas, and their amazing abundance of wildlife and flora. Fishing, gathering and indeed traveling and living as the Waraos have done for over 20,000 years. Learning how to survive in the jungle as the Warao do.
| Week 6
| Playa Colorada The Lodge | History and Culture of Venezuela.
| Intensive Spanish and history and culture classes. Beach volleyball tournaments with locals. Cooking classes. Snorkeling and visits to the islands. Visits to historical sites in Barcelona and Cumana.
| Week 7-8
| Gran Sabana and Roraima Camping in tents | Ancient Pemon Indian Culture.
| Jeep Safari to the Mystical highlands of Venezuela, visiting various indigenous settlements, and finally a week hiking to the top of Roraima.
Spanish classes for first week only.
| Week 9-12
| Playa Colorada The Lodge | Volunteer Work Experience Program.
| This month we dedicate to working on a community project. Working with local people we try to give something back to our host in this underdeveloped country. Spanish classes in the morning, volunteer project in the afternoon. | Week 13-20
| Various Options
| Volunteer Work Experience Program.
| Students can choose two programs for 4 weeks each from the following: teaching English, National Park Programs, photography, tour guiding, adventure sports training, journalism, tourism, bar, restaurant and hotel management, building and construction and many more. You will live with a host family or in a camp or Posada.
| Week 21-22
| Canaima / Angel Falls
| Pemon culture and Modern Venezuela
| We spend one week walking to Canaima from la Paragua stopping at isolated villages along the way and sleeping in the wilderness. Second week in the Village of Canaima (Spanish classes), and an optional day trip to see the world highest waterfall. Flight back to La Paragua.
| Week 23-24
| Playa Colorada The Lodge | | Time to work on your suntan and polish of your Spanish skills before going home. Plenty of fun on the beach and farewell parties.
| Scuba diving is available at extra cost upon request through our PADI registered dive provider!
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Program starting dates (please click here)
| 02, 03 & 06 Months Programs Starting Dates in 2009 | | | Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov
| Dec | | | 19
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More details (please click here)
Mochima National Park - 2 weeks
You’ll spend your first two weeks based around Playa Colorada, getting accustomed to the pace of life and the traditional culture. Intensive Spanish class should establish the basics quickly. We’ll introduce you to Kayaking then take you for a 3 day expedition to the offshore islands where you’ll encounter dolphins, snorkel on spectacular reefs, enjoy beach games like volleyball and try fishing to catch dinner. There are great hikes to the top of the islands for spectacular views of the park and the chance to try sport-climbing or rappelling. On the islands you’ll learn how to make a shelter, a fire, find food and water and learn a few simple knots as well. During this time you’ll have an introduction to local cooking, visit neighboring villages and waterfalls and try your hand at Salsa and Merengue dancing. Caripe – 1 week
Just a few hours drive away is the ‘Eden of the East’, the lush and mountainous Caripe region famous for its coffee plantations and farming culture. Exploration of the Guacharo cave and it’s inhabitants. Visits to coffee plantations, fruit and vegetable farms and local markets. Mountain trekking, horse riding and camping. Ongoing Spanish classes. Orinoco Delta Kayaking expedition - 2 weeks
Your kayaking in the Mochima will have prepared you for one of the real highlights of your trip. Travelling and living as the Waraos have done for over 20,000 years, exploring the waterways, jungles and sabanas and being amongst an amazing abundance of wildlife and flora. Ancient Warao culture and language. Artesania, including Moriche weaving and wood sculpture. Visiting Warao families and settlements. Ongoing Spanish class. Savannah horse riding. You’ll stay in a Warao home, construct your own bush camp and even stay at a luxurious lodge. Sleeping is in hammocks. Playa Colorada – 1 week
Return to the base Lodge for an introduction to the history and culture of Venezuela and some beach time. Intensive Spanish / history / culture classes. Beach volley ball and football tournaments with locals. Cooking classes. Snorkelling and freediving. Visits to historical sites in Barcelona and Cumana. Gran Sabana, the Lost World and Roraima – 2 weeks
Jeep Safari to the mystical and ancient highlands of Venezuela, visiting various indigenous Pemon settlements, spectacular waterfalls and the climax a week round-trip hiking to the top of Roraima. Ongoing Spanish classes. Camping in tents. Playa Colorada – 4 weeks - Volunteer work experience program
This month we dedicate to working on a community project. Working with local people we try to give something back to our host in this under-developed country. Spanish classes in the morning, volunteer project in the afternoon. Volunteer Work Experience Program (Merida or Los Roques Project) - 8 weeks
You can choose two different programs for 4 weeks from all sorts of incentives including, teaching English, National Park experience, photography, tour guiding, adventure sports training, journalism, tourism, barwork, restaurant and hotel management, building and construction, gourmet-cooking, amongst many other options. You will live with a host family or in a camp or posada. Canaima and Angel Falls – 2 weeks
We spend one week hiking into Canaima from La Paragua stopping in isolated Pemon settlements along the way and sleeping in the wilderness. The second week you’ll live in the Pemon village of Canaima, exploring the area and studying Spanish. There’s an optional day trip to see the world highest water fall Angel Falls. Flight back to La Paragua. Playa Colorada – The Lodge – 2 weeks
Plenty of chill time, fun on the beach and farewell parties, time to work on your suntan and polish of your Spanish skills before going home. Tents and hammocks. |
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Bolivarian Adventure – Andes, Pacific Surf and Jungle (12 weeks)
| This program features learning Spanish and volunteer work experience across two countries – Venezuela and Ecuador – giving students an opportunity to experience three completely different locations...
The program builds on our popular Learn Spanish & Volunteer program based at our Merida location, where students will spend their first 6 weeks. The first two weeks will be Intensive Spanish and then 4 weeks of
volunteer work experience (see above “Street Kids” Fundación Don Bosco or Zoo/Animal Sanctuary) PLUS 10 hours Spanish lessons per week during these volunteering weeks. |  | Students then fly to Montanita, Ecuador – a stunning surfer’s paradise right on the Pacific Ocean. In between hitting the beach and topping up the suntan, students will complete their Spanish lessons with a 20 hour week of Intensive Spanish (making a program total of 100 hours Spanish lessons).
For the final six weeks of this program students go to a jungle location to participate on one of the following volunteer work experience options: | %20of%20DSC00710.JPG "Students learning Spanish in Venezuela and volunteering") | |
BioMindo (please click here)
BioMindo: environmental volunteer work in the cloud forest of Mindo.
This is one of the most bio diverse areas in the world. A well known project that helps protect everything from birds, to bespectacled bears. As well as research you will be involved in track cutting and maintenance. Mindo is a small village, located in a subtropical valley at 1224 m above sea level. It is 84 km away from Quito, on the western slopes of the Andes with a population of about 2000. The average temperature is between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius and is fairly constant year round. There are 2 seasons – winter is from December to April, when it rains, especially in the afternoons but the mornings are usually sunny. The summer from May to November is sunny with very occasional rain in the afternoons. However there are clouds in the higher part of the valley which is characteristic of the cloud forest. Mindo is a safe and welcoming place; its inhabitants are friendly, with the majority working in the tourism industry. Thanks to its protected forest there is a guarantee of clean water, fresh air and a variety of wild life represented by more than 465 species of birds, 200 species of butterflies and more than 200 species of orchids. Jumping from a waterfall, going down the river on tubes, hiking in the forest observing nature or just sitting on the banks of one of the 5 rivers - these are the attractions that have made Mindo such a great destination! |
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Amazonia Wildlife Sanctuary (please click here)
Amazonia Wildlife Sanctuary: Rescuing and caring for exotic animals from the Amazon area.
This is normally based at either Selva Viva near Tena OR Merazonia near Mera. You will be dealing 'hands on' with many varieties of wild life from monkeys to anteaters to Toucans! The World Wildlife Fund has called the area from Baños to Mera, situated where the Andes meet the Amazon, “A Gift to the Earth” because of its beauty and biological importance to the region. Mera is situated in the Pastaza River Valley between the national parks of Sangay and Llanganates, and provides an important biological corridor linking the two protected areas. Mera itself is a small and friendly jungle village nestled amid mountains, rivers, and rainforest. Sharing a beer with a friendly villager can be as charming as the abundant nature. Surrounding Mera there are caves to explore, rivers to swim in, beautiful walks to be taken, and great places to string up a hammock and enjoy. About one hour our away, both Baños and Tena are the main Adventure town of Ecuador and from here you can do a multiple of activities from rafting, kayaking, horse riding, Canyoning and much more!
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The program starts in Merida and finishes at Caracas International Airport – please note that the program price is very inclusive but DOES NOT include the return flights from Caracas to Quito, Ecuador. This flight costs USD $550 and is non commissionable which is why we have excluded it from the program price...
Prices include: Intensive Spanish lessons (20 lessons per week) PLUS 10 additional Spanish lessons per week during Merida volunteering weeks, volunteer placement and support, accommodation in either Merida or Ecuador for length of program, breakfast and dinner (except lunch though facilities available, and dinner while in Montanita), airport pickup and transfers in Merida and Ecuador. Start Dates: 1st Monday in February, April, June & September |  | |
The Lodge (Base)
| Our local partner has two bases, one alongside the beautiful beach of Playa Colorada in the heart of the Mochima National Park and the other downtown in the peaceful Andean mountain-town of Merida. The palm fringed Caribbean base is amongst a procession of sandy beaches from where we explore the myriad of deserted offshore islands by kayak whilst interacting with dolphins. Snorkelling, fishing and diving opportunities are excellent. Our Andes operation is perfectly located for hiking, horseriding, rafting and mountainbiking and we have the world’s longest cable car ride on our doorstep.
|  | At the lodges you’ll find tons of inspiration and information on travel around Venezuela. We have beds or hammocks and include a breakfast of fresh fruits and cereal and a main meal of national and international flavours each evening. Spanish classes are held daily and there are ongoing expeditions to the Orinoco Delta, Gran Sabana and other exotic destinations around the country. Whether you’re wanting to chill, learn Spanish, soak up the sun or get into shape, as a single traveller looking to meet others, a group looking to meet other groups, or just looking for some inspiration there should be something here for you. |  | |
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Dates & Prices
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Prices for all programs include accommodation, breakfast and dinner
Extra nights are available at the following prices: the daily rate for accommodation, breakfast and dinner is USD 30 or EUR 20.
| Dates & Prices
| EUR
| USD
| Intensive Spanish Course (20 lessons per week)
Price per week
Start Dates: every Monday
| € 225
| $ 345
| 5 weeks Spanish and Volunteer Service
Start Dates: 1st and 3rd Monday of the month
| € 740
| $ 1125
| 8 weeks Spanish and Volunteer Service
Start Dates: 1st and 3rd Monday of the month
| € 1590
| $ 2450
| Supplements:
NB for Volunteer Placement at the Warao School Orinoco Delta please add for transport
NB add for PADI Open Water Scuba
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€ 80
€ 270
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$ 120
$ 420
| 4 weeks Spanish and Mass Volunteer Program
Start Dates: 6th July 2009
| € 995
| $ 1525
| 8 weeks Spanish & Dive
Start Dates: 2nd March, 27 April, 22 June, 20 July, 28 September 2009
| € 3295
| $5125
| 2 months (8 weeks) Travelling Classroom
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December 2009
| € 2413
| $ 3725
| 3 months (12 weeks) Travelling Classroom
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December 2009
| € 3227
| $ 4995
| 6 months (24 weeks) Travelling Classroom
Start Dates: 19th Jan, 16th March, 11th May, 6th July, 3rd August, 12th October, 7th December 2009
| € 5300
| $ 8200
| 3 months (12 weeks) Bolivarian Adventure
(Spanish & Volunteer in Venezuela + Ecuador)
PLUS $ 550 non commissionable supplement for return flight Caracas-Quito(Ecuador)-Caracas
Start Dates: 1st Monday in February, April, June & September 2009
| € 2330
| $ 3570
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| | Holidays in 2009 | | | Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov
| Dec | | | 01
| 23
| | 10
| 01
| | 05
| | 06
| | | 25
| | | There is no Spanish lessons on public holidays, however, classes are usually recuperated. Accommodation, meals and traveling takes place despite a public holiday.
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More info on flights & transfers (please click here)
Our partner is a fully registered Travel Agency. They can assist in booking flights and other travel related services within Venezuela for students. Students have to arrange their international flights to Venezuela while our partner can book internal flights and travel upon request.
Students can pay us in cash upon arrival for inland flights. The prices are the actual price of the flight and therefore vary on availability and season (the more warning, normally the cheaper we can get them). Normally about $150 USD one way to Merida, and $85 USD one way to Barcelona (Venezuela).
We recommend the following airlines if you would like to book your inland flight on your own:
Barcelona: http://www.avior.com.ve/
Barcelona: http://www.asercaairlines.com/
Merida: http://www.santabarbaraairlines.com
Upon clearance Passport & Immigration Control and Luggage Collection there is a secure corridor – well signposted – linking the International Airport to the National Airport from where flights to Merida and Barcelona depart. Students should make their way down this corridor and present themselves to be checked in at the appropriate airline desk.
Once we have been advised local flight arrival details our partner will arrange for students to be met at by a representative at Arrivals Hall (holding a sign with the organisation´s and the students name on it), and driven (10 minutes in Merida, 40 minutes from Barcelona) to their accommodation. This service is included in all longer term programs, i.e. Travelling Classroom, and Learn Spanish & Volunteer work programs, BUT there is a charge of USD $40 for this service for shorter term programs, e.g. Intensive Spanish.
Students normally arrive the day before programs start. However, due to international flights etc we are happy to receive students before this for $30 pp/pd (EURO €20) including dinner and breakfast.
If students arrive later than 14:00 to Caracas they will not have sufficient time to make same day connecting flights to Merida. On request we will book either, a local Hotel for them (the price is about $110 USD per room (sharing is permitted and reduces pp price)). The hotel will arrange to pick up students at Caracas International Arrivals and transfer to Hotel, and return to the National Airport next day for onward flight to Merida) OR a flight to El Vigia ($110 USD approx each way) which is a one hour taxi ride ($30 USD approx) from Merida.
Please note that students should bring certain gear with them to be able to participate in adventure activities, including water proofs, good walking/hiking shoes/boots, head torch, day back pack, fleece or warm top, 15 – 20 litre dry bag…these items are easy to source from any high street and all adventure students should
bring these items.
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Visa information (please click here)
Visa Information
For EU and North American citizens no visa is required for studying up to 90 days.
It is the student´s responsibility to arrive at the school upon the correct visa. For further information please click here (http://www.embassyworld.com/)
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Your Questions Answered (please click here)
Q. What do I need to bring?
Students should all come equipped with the following:
Kit
60ltr backpack. sleeping bag, sleeping mat and sheet, pocket knife (swiss army / leatherman or similar), insect spray (deet best), sun cream, personal medical kit, mask and snorkel, flash light.
Kitchen
Knife, fork, spoon, plate, cup.
Clothes
Lightweight rain jacket, light weight trousers and long sleeved shirt, fleece, hat, lightweight hiking boots / shoes, teva or similar sandals, swim suit, town clothes for work experience months and partying.
Money
$50- $100 per week personal expenses / meals out etc.
Additional
All students will need a light-weight hammock and net which can be purchased on arrival.
Q. What’s included in the package?
All meals during all of the student activities, equipment, gear, cleaning stuff, tuition, transport, transfers, accommodation, expeditions, guides etc.
Not included
National Park Fees ( Los Roques $10 entry fee, Canaima $8, Cueva Guacharo $6.), meals in restaurants, taxis, beer and fizzy drinks, local bus fares during work experience months (max $1 per day).
Q. When is the rainy season and how much does it rain?
Venezuela enjoys a tropical climate, the temperature dipping slightly in the mountains and also in the rainy season, June through to September, when it usually rains for a couple of refreshing hours in the afternoon.
Q. Why can’t I flush toilet roll down the toilet?
Because the plumbing is sub-standard and having to clean up big blockages of poo and paper is no fun at all. Loo-paper in the basket please.
Q. What is a gringo?
The expression Gringo was developed by the Mexicans for the invading American Army in ‘green’ being asked politely to go’.
Q. Can I drink the water?
No. We filter all water for drinking and if we can’t filter we sterilise or boil.
Q. Can I catch Malaria?
Yes, though only if you are really unlucky. We have had no cases of students catching Malaria yet. You have a similar chance of being killed by a falling donkey.
Q. Is Venezuela dangerous?
Yes. There are dangerous places to be found in the cities and dangerous things to be found outdoors, as anywhere else in the world, if you want danger we can take you there. We prefer the safer locations of Playa Colorada and Merida where we are based. All the destinations we take you to are safe.
Q. How do I stop mosquitoes biting me?
You can’t really. It’s best to take good precautions against getting bitten. Long clothes, mosquito nets at night and plenty of good repellent (with a high concentrate of deet), but they’ll get you eventually somehow. N.B. Accommodation at the lodge is mosquito proof.
Q. Are there poisonous spiders and snakes in Venezuela?
Yes. Seldom a problem unless provoked or disturbed while mating as you would expect.
Q. Can my girlfriend / boyfriend visit?
Of course. (you won’t want to! says Brendan)
Q. Is the political situation dangerous?
Not really dangerous, it’s like it’s always been, comfortably corrupt.
Q. How expensive is Venezuela?
Right now it has never been cheaper.
Q. Does it rain much in Venezuela?
When it rains it rains cats and dogs. The rainy season only lasts for about 3 – 4 months and even then it usually only rains in the afternoon for a short while.
Q. Do we have to pay airport tax?
Yes. $10-40 depending on how long you’ve been in the country.
Q. Is it easy to sleep in a hammock and is it bad for my back?
Yes easy to sleep in and no, not at all bad for your back. Sleeping in hammocks is by far the most comfortable and convenient way of sleeping out here. Students usually toss and turn the first night, then settle right in thereafter. Some continue sleeping in hammocks when they get home.
Q. Are there sharks in Venezuela?
Yes. The fishermen sometimes catch them and they are excellent to eat. There are no dangerous sharks in these waters, you’ve more chance of being bitten by an underwater donkey.
Q. Do I need to be fit?
No not really, though the fitter you are the more you will benefit.
Q. How long before I can speak Spanish?
Depends on you. Most students have a good grasp of the language within a couple of months.
Q. Can I play local Sport?
Yes. The locals are always encouraging us to get involved, generally we are bigger and stronger and sometimes much more skillful than they are so they try to recruit us.
Q. Will I get much time for myself?
Yes, plenty.
Q. What is the food like?
Excellent, we never have any complaints about our food, we all like eating good food and you’ll learn how to cook different cuisines from all over the world. 2-3 meals provided per day depending on location. |
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More info on Venezuela (please click here)
Venezuela
| Venezuela is a country of striking natural beauty and dramatic contrasts: the snowcapped peaks of the Andes in the west; steamy Amazonian jungles in the south; the hauntingly beautiful Gran Sabana plateau, with its strange flat-topped mountains, in the east; and 3000km (1860mi) of white-sand beaches fringed with coconut palms lining the Caribbean coast. South America's largest lake, Lake Maracaibo, and third-longest river, the Orinoco, are also here, and the country boasts the world's highest waterfall, Angel Falls. It is also home to a wide variety of exotic plants and animals, including the jaguar, ocelot, tapir, armadillo, anteater, and the longest snake in the world, the anaconda. StudyGlobal offers 2 completely different programs in order to meet our different customer needs. Isla Margarita, the Caribean island for the beach bums and surfers as well as a Spanish and Adventure Program with its base in Merida, the city in the Andes for the outdoor lovers and adventurers. | Geography
| Venezuela is located in north eastern part of South America, it is bordered by Brazil to the south, Columbia to the west and Guyana to the southeast. Its coastline meets the waters of both the Caribbean sea in the north and the Atlantic Ocean in the east. It has an area of 912,050 km² (566,383 miles²). Venezuela has an incredibly diverse landscape encompassing 10 broad geographical regions. Off the north coast lie numerous Caribbean Islands, of which the biggest is Isla Margarita. The Andes in the west continue in the north with the Cordillera de la Costa, a mountain chain which runs along the Caribbean coast. The Andes also continue south to Los Llanos, a giant plain extending east as far as the Caura River, which flows through Venezuela's second largest forest reserve after Amazonas and only recently became known to adventure tourism. Located south of Los Llanos is the Amazon Basin, the largest rain forest in the world. East of the Caura River forest is the beginning of the Gran Sabana, part of the Guayana Highlands which extend up to the rainforests of the Orinoco Delta in the north east and the Brazilian border in the south.
Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, and the majority of developed land is situated in the Central region. Grasslands occupy half of the country, and forests cover about two-fifths, varying from true rainforest to semi-tropical evergreens. Only a small portion (less than 4 per cent) of land in Venezuela is cultivated. | Population
| Currently estimated at 26 million and increasing at a rate of over 2.5% per year, Venezuela’s population is the fastest growing in South America. Half the population is under the age of eighteen. The vast majority of Venezuelans lives in urban areas, and Caracas is home to about 20% of the population. Population density varies according to region. While cities of the central coastal region have a high concentration of people, areas such as Los Llanos, the Amazon and Guyana are inhabited by very few. Owing to the constant migration of people from country to city, this distribution seems likely to continue.Venezuela has a mixed ancestry. About 67% of the population are of Mulatto-Mestizo descent, with the remainder made up of Whites (21%), Africans (10%), and Indians (2%).
| Language
| Spanish is the main language of Venezuela. However, Venezuelan Spanish differs in pronounciation from the Spanish spoken in Spain. There are also some variations in vocabulary. Venezuelans call their language castellano. Besides Spanish, there are over 30 native Indian languages, of which several have common origins. In more remote areas, some Indians still only speak their own language and have no knowledge of Spanish. Generally, the knowledge of foreign languages in Venezuela is very basic. Even in better hotels the receptionists don't always speak English. It is therefore useful to learn at least some common phrases before your departure to Venezuela, or to carry a phrasebook.
| Currency
| The Venezuelan currency is the Bolívar (Bs). Locals sometimes call it the ‘Bolo’. It can be exported and imported in unlimited quantities. You can buy Bolívares before coming to Venezuela, but it can take time for them to be ordered and you will get a better exchange rate in Venezuela. Please check Currency Converter for current exchange rates.
| Time Zone
| Venezuela is exactly five hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. In summer there is six hours difference as Venezuela has no daylight savings time
| Climate
| Venezuela is located entirely in the tropics. The temperature varies very little during the year and most parts of the country maintain an average of over 25°C (77°F). Its capital, Caracas, has an average annual temperature of 22°C (72°F) and varies by only 4°C (8°F) over the year. However, the temperature drops with altitude. The mountainous regions can get cold, especially at night, and there is even snow in the highest parts of the Andes.
Like all tropical countries, Venezuela only has two seasons, the dry season, known as verano, and the rainy season, known as invierno, which are marked by the difference in rainfall rather than temperature. Generally, the dry season is from December to April/May, and the rainy season lasts for the rest of the year. Rainfall, however, can occur during the dry season, and the rainy season often has dry months
| Government and Constitution
| The creation of two new powers, the Citizens Power and the Electoral Power, apart from the already existing Executive, Legislative and Judicial Powers, is just one of the most important innovations contained in the Magna Charta. The new Constitution also includes the possibility of immediate presidential reelection, substitutes the national Congress for a single-chamber National Assembly, grants vote for the military and consecrates the pre-eminence of human rights as part of the superior values defended by the State and guaranteeing the rights of the indigenous people. Another remarkable innovation is the change in the name of the country which is Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as prescribed in its Article 1.
There are currently two major blocs of political parties in Venezuela: the incumbent leftist bloc and the opposition bloc. Following the fall of Marcos Pérez Jiménez in 1958, Venezuelan politics was dominated by the center-right Christian democratic COPEI and the center-left social democratic Democratic Action (AD) parties; this two-party system was formalized by the puntofijismo arrangement. However, this system has been sidelined following the initial 1998 election of current president Hugo Chávez, which started the Bolivarian Revolution. Most of the political opposition boycotted the 2005 parliamentary election. Consequently, the MVR-led bloc secured all 167 seats in the National Assembly. Then, the MVR voted to dissolve itself in favor of joining the proposed United Socialist Party of Venezuela, while Chávez requested that MVR-allied parties merge themselves into it as well. The National Assembly has twice voted to grant Chávez the ability rule by decree in several broadly defined areas, once in 2000 and again in 2007. This power has been granted to previous administrations as well. Chavez has also established alliance with several Latin American countries which have elected leftist governments. There are condemnations of Chávez's totalitarian, dictatorial character. 
| Culture - Salsa
| Salsa has become popular all over the world, but is mostly danced and originating in Latin American countries. Most famous Salsa music and singers come from Cuba such as the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz.
We offer Salsa courses together with Spanish courses as extracurricular activity.
If you are interested in taking Salsa courses while studying Spanish please contact us. We offer Salsa courses in Venezuela, Argentina, Chile and Spain.
| Food
| Venezuela has a variety of traditional dishes which are found in nearly all local restaurants. Most are fried maize or wheatflour based pancakes or breads. The most common meat dishes in Venezuela are fried and grilled fish and meats usually served with rice. Generally, beef and chicken are most popular, though other meats such as goat are preferred in certain regions. Pork is eaten mostly at Christmas. The huge variety of fish includes trout, red snapper, dorado, parrot fish, catfish and the baby shark (cazon). Oysters, clams and other shellfish are also widely enjoyed.
There is an abundance of fruits in Venezuela. Mango, papaya (lechosa), avocado (aguacate) oranges (naranja), banana (cambur) coconut (coco), passionfruit (parchita), melon (melón), pineapple (piña), guava (guayaba) and soursap (guanábana) are just a few.
Besides all the traditional Venezuelan dishes, a wide variety of world cuisines are available in the country. Caracas has everything from Italian to Chinese. Generally, a 10% service charge is added to restaurant bills, and it is usual to give an additional tip of around 5%. Several fast-food chains are common in larger towns, and burger and hot-dog vendors are found on many street corners.
Some traditional Venezuelan dishes are: Arepa
A plain fried or baked corn pancake. They are filled with almost anything, including eggs and tomato for breakfast, beef, chicken, ham, sausage, shrimp, cheese, salad and even baby shark. Empanada
Deep-fried cornmeal turnover filled with chicken, ham, cheese, fish (baby shark included) or meat. Cachito
Hot croissant filled with chopped ham and or cheese. Cachapa
Thick, slightly sweet pancake made with maize and served with mozzarella-type cheese (queso guayanesa). Hallaca
Traditional christmas dish made from chopped beef, pork and chicken with green peppers, onion, garlic, tomatoes, raisins, olives and various herbs and spices all mixed into maize dough. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Pabellón Criollo
Venezuela’s national dish, consisting of shredded beef, black beans (caraotas negras) and cheese, served with fried plantain (cooking banana) and rice. | Drinks
| Fresh fruit juices are readily available, as are batidos, a thicker juice, and milkshakes (merengada).
Sugar cane juice with lemon (papelón con limón) and fresh coconut milk are also on offer. Beer is ubiquitous, and the most popular brand is Polar. Rum, the commonly found spirit, comes in several varieties and is mixed with coke to make Cuba Libre, a favourite drink amongst Venezuelans.
Coffee is domestically produced in Venezuela and is the most common hot beverage. It is always offered to visitors as a welcome drink
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