Mendoza

Program Outline

Our Spanish language school programs are designed so you will meet your Spanish goals in a short period of time and enjoying this world famous wine growing region in the foothills of the Andes.

We have developed a variety of programs that fit almost any interest in learning Spanish! The standard course, 20 hours per week, provides you plenty of instruction while leaving free time to practice the language. Small group sizes (maximum 7) allow each student to receive substantial individual attention and feedback from the teachers. Students may also add private lessons in the afternoon as well to make greater use of their time. One-to-one classes are also available for students seeking maximum individual attention or to work at a slower or faster pace than the group Spanish courses.

The Medical Spanish Program allows professional and students to immerse themselves in Argentinean culture and local medical language and environment. We put you in direct contact with local doctors and patients. If you are thinking of getting university credit for your course or get involved with a volunteer institution, simply let us know about your interests and you can take advantage of our different program options.

Location

Mendoza is a very important and culturally significant city in Argentina. It is located in the foothills of the Andes on the western side of the country in the shadow of the mammoth Mount Aconcagua. It has a very pleasant and temperate climate year round. It is a 13 hour bus ride from Buenos Aires, but only 7 hours from the Chilean capital of Santiago. The school itself in located in the center of the city. It is a short walk to many different sites and tourist attractions. Nearby Parque San Martin has the Mendoza Zoo and the monument to San Martin. The main area of night life in the city is only a few blocks away on Aristides Villanueva Street.

Lodging

We offer two different lodging options, homestay with a local family and private rooms in a shared student apartment. The homestay option includes half board, breakfast and dinner. This is for students who want to make the most of their time from both a language and cultural standpoint. This option is especially recommended for those students who are planning extended stays. For those who prefer more freedom to come and go, we also have the option of staying in one of our student apartment. No meals are included but you have access to the kitchen and common areas. All options are located near the area of the school and the center of the city.

Cultural

Mendoza is one of the most culturally important cities in South America. National Geographic has listed it as one of the top 10 historic destinations in the world. There are a great many museums, including the Museo Cornelio Moyano, which focuses on natural history. This town of over 100,000 people is world famous as the capital of the most important wine growing region in Argentina. With hundreds of wineries in the region and the National Grape Harvest Festival in early March, it is a must see for any wine connoisseur.

Start Dates

Students with some knowledge of Spanish can start their programs any Monday of the year, but if you are complete beginner, we recommend you start on specific start dates. Please contact us for the start date nearest when you want to begin your program.

Climate

Mendoza has an arid climate, with what little rain that does fall, coming in the summer months, November through March. It is a rare month that sees more than 2 inches of rain. The summer highs are in the mid to high 80s °F. During the winter months, May though August, the daytime highs 50s to mid 60s °F. Even in the coldest months, the night time temperature rarely gets down below freezing.

Local Color

The main nights for night life in Mendoza are Thursday through Sunday and like in Spain, most people do not go out until after midnight. Check out the Plaza Pellegrini to see locals out dancing and practicing the tango.

Points of Interest

General San Martin Park is located very close to our school, only two blocks away. This is a large metropolitan park of nearly 1000 acres. It is a lovely place to visit any time of year and is a vital part of city culture. In addition to the natural history museum the park contains Regata Lake, botanical gardens, football stadium and the cities zoo.

Hot Tip

Wine Tasting. The Lujan de Cuyo and Maipu region has many of the best wineries and is just an hour’s drive from Mendoza. When wine tasting, make sure to bring cash and something warm to wear. Most transactions are only done with cash and the wine cellars can be cold, even in the summer.