Orientation
You will have your orientation on your first day at the Antigua language school. The orientation will cover topics such as:
- The language school and its facilities
- Antigua – where to go and what to see – banks, good restaurants and so on.
- General Guatemala country information
- Information about your Guatemala Experience
- Health and Safety information
Accommodation and Meals
During weeks 1 and 2, and on your last day of the programme you will be staying with one of our typical Guatemalan families.
Our families are all very warm sociable people and very keen to accommodate international students. You will instantly be made to feel at home and will be included in all day-to-day social activities (shopping, parties, barbeques etc) throughout your stay; a fantastic insight into life in this unique and diverse country.
Your family will provide you with two meals a day (breakfast and dinner). All families are more than happy to cook any dishes that you'd like (within reason!) and many families can accommodate special dietary requirements for vegetarians and vegans. There is also a laundry service once a week.
Families belong to Guatemala's middle class, although students should take note that living standards in Guatemala are generally lower than Western Europe or North America. Family homes are located in neighbourhoods usually no more than seven blocks from our language school.
You will receive a key and will be able to come and go as you please. All families have hot water and flushing western style toilets and showers. You will have you own private room and generally share a bathroom with others.
The first weekend you will camp at the summit of the volcano and all camping equipment and cooking facilities are included. During week 3 your accommodation will be at Latin America standard hotels in a shared room.
Free Time
During week one at the language school extra activities are organised by our on-site staff for you during your free time, on the evenings and at the weekend, including salsa classes, cooking classes, sports, tours of the towns and happy hours at bars and restaurants!
During week 2, when taking part in the volunteer work, you will have free time in the evenings and weekends. During this time you can take excursions to other parts of the country, or stay in town to get to know the community and people more intimately.
Project Support
Throughout your stay in Guatemala you will have the support and guidance of our coordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.
In addition you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our UK staff at any time should you need to.
Project Age Limit
Minimum 18 years, maximum decided on participants’ health.
