Program Overview
Come on this unforgettable journey with TFT, and not only will you explore this vibrant Mediterranean country like a local but you’ll learn to speak like one too! On this extended version of our 14-day Spanish immersion trip, you’ll spend another full week soaking up the Spanish culture and language with up to 60 hours of intensive Spanish language courses. You’ll learn from native speakers at three different international schools and test your speaking skills while immersed in the different dialects of San Sebastián, Barcelona, and Alicante. Join us to explore Spain’s most dynamic regions and gain confidence in your Spanish skills both inside and outside the classroom!
We’ll begin in serene San Sebastián, the capital of Basque Country, where you’ll start your first session of lessons taught by native speakers. After your studies, you’ll surf at an international surfer’s paradise, taste your way through our one-of-a-kind Tapas Tour through the Historical Quarter, relax on Playa la Concha, and say bonjour to France on a day trip! Next stop is regal Madrid, where we’ll stroll through the the Puerta del Sol, pay homage to the legendary Real Madrid Football Club at the Bernabéu Stadium, and go for a rowboat ride in Retiro Park.
We’ll continue our journey in fun and funky Barcelona where you’ll join your second session of language lessons at the local international school. We will take our speaking skills to the streets and amble down the palm-lined boulevards, explore the twists and turns of the Gothic Quarter, bike through the city spotting the architecture of Gaudi, see the home of FC Barcelona, and learn to make tapas. We’ll journey on to Valencia before making our way to Alicante. We’ll spend the final week of our trip in this stunning costal destination, soaking up the sun and polishing up your language skills at the local international school.
Our Spanish Language Immersion trip is perfect for high school students looking to gain a global perspective and gain fluency in the language in the best way possible. Our experienced bilingual staff will accompany you every step of the way as you broaden your speaking skills outside the classroom through language scavenger hunts, chitchatting with local shopkeepers, ordering food at local restaurants, and simply by being immersed in the culture. Come with us this summer for an enriching experience you will never forget!
During this program, you will…
- Attend up to 60 hours of Spanish language class taught by native speakers at three different international schools in San Sebastián, Barcelona & Alicante.
- Spend your mornings learning in the classroom and practice your Spanish in real-world situations in the afternoons
- Eat your way through Spain’s culinary capital, San Sebastián, with our unique Tapas Tour
- Take surf lessons at Spain’s hottest surf spot (for all skill levels)
- Ride a cable car up the mountain for a breathtaking view of the mountains and sea
- Learn how to make delicious tapas
- Hop over the border to France for an afternoon
- Practice your royal wave at the Palace of Madrid
- Indulge in churros con chocolate at the king’s favorite churrería
- Gaze in awe at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic
- Attend a Flamenco Show and take in the hand clapping, percussive footwork, and intricate hand, arm, and body movements.
- Soak in Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces at the Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, and Parc Guell
- Bike through Barcelona’s wide boulevards for an insider’s look at the city’s off-the-beaten-path sights
- Tour Camp Nou, home of the legendary FC Barcelona
- Take day trips out to beautiful Girona and historical Tarragona
- Cruise the Bay of Valencia on a sunset catamaran ride
- Explore the famous rice fields where paella rice is grown
- Try stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, windsurfing and more in the crystal-clear Mediterranean
This program is an extension of our 14-day Spanish Language Immersion program.
Trip Itinerary
DAY 1: DEPART FROM NEW YORK (JFK)
DAYS 2-4: MADRID
Welcome to Spain! We’ll begin our journey in its decadent capital. Hear the true, authentic castellano spoken in the streets and in the shops, taste local specialties like calamari and fried green peppers, and shop til you drop along the grand boulevards. You’ll get a tour of the Royal Palace (still in use by the Spanish monarchy) and relax in the Parque del Retiro just as Spaniards do on Sunday afternoons. Laugh at the street performers in la Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s version of Times Square, and get an ice cream in Plaza Mayor–formerly the site of several bullfights and beheadings. Take in some of the world’s best art at the Prado museum. And let’s not forget Madrid’s most famous resident–a trip to the Bernabéu Stadium to see the home of Real Madrid Football Club. By this time, you will have had 20 hours of Spanish practice–you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve learned and how well you’ll be able to talk to Spaniards!
DAYS 5-9: SAN SEBASTIÁN > BILBAO > ST. JEAN DE LUZ (FRANCE)
Next, we’ll head to rugged northern Spain–specifically, the Basque Country. Your Spanish teachers–all locals–will put you in classes based on your Spanish ability, and you’ll have classes just in the morning. Then, after lunch, you’ll spend the afternoon exploring all the sights of San Sebastián while practicing what you’ve learned in class. Chitchat with shopkeepers, order your own food at restaurants, and haggle with street vendors–you’ll be amazed at how much Spanish you can pick up by being totally immersed in the culture!
Since San Sebastián is widely considered to be the culinary capital of Spain, you’ll get to go on our unique “Tapas Tour” just like the Spanish do–hopping around to a number of different restaurants, and eating a little snack at each one. We’ll have a week full of adventure as we take surf lessons on one of the world’s best surfing beaches, ride a cable car up to the top of the mountain for a beautiful view of the harbor, and go for a bike ride around the city! If you don’t want to bike, you can explore by foot. Take a day trip over the border to France, where you’ll visit the quaint beach town of Saint Jean de Luz. Relax on the beach, explore this beautiful village, and even have crêpes for dinner.
DAYS 10-13: BARCELONA
Barcelona awaits you with its sandy Mediterranean beaches, lively boulevards, and traditional cuisine. Marvel at Antoní Gaudí’s spectacular architecture at Parc Guell, Casa Mila, and of course the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Explore for yourself all the hidden twists and turns of the ancient Gothic Quarter, and take an off-the-beaten-path bike tour to learn the city’s secrets. You’ll even get to see the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, an amazing lights and music show, and of course go to Camp Nou to try to get a glimpse of Messi. A trip to Spain wouldn’t be complete without attending a Flamenco Show!
DAYS 14-16: VALENCIA
Sunny Valencia is where we’ll spend the second weekend of our trip! Soak up the sun on Valencia’s stunning beaches, go shopping in the neat boutiques, and practice your Spanish with the people you meet. And let’s not forget that this is the birthplace of Spain’s most famous food, paella! We’ll spend an afternoon at Valencia’s amazing Albufera rice fields, where paella rice is grown. Then, go for a relaxing sunset catamaran ride through the Bay of Valencia.
DAYS 17-20: ALICANTE
We’ll move on farther down the Mediterranean coast to the top summer destination region of Spain, Alicante. Spaniards take refuge from the heat of central Spain by taking a whole month of vacation and coming to their apartments here! You’ll get to try different water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, windsurfing, and even have the option of taking a scuba-diving course. After your classes in the morning, you’ll be able to practice your Spanish with scavenger hunts and other fun activities designed to get you talking to locals. We’ll also explore the beautiful towns around Alicante. We’ll ride a boat out to the beautiful island of Isla de Tabarca that is a Marine Reserve! You’ll have the opportunity to swim in the waterfalls of Fuentes de Algar. Finally, we’ll conclude your time in Spain with an elegant final dinner overlooking the ocean!
DAY 21: RETURN FLIGHT TO THE USA
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of teen typically participates in this program? What are the requirements to join?
Teens from all over the world join this program! Typically, our participants are culturally curious individuals who are excited to make new friends, experience something unique, and interested in stepping out of their comfort zones and expanding their horizons.
This program is exclusively for students who are currently in grades 9th through 12th and approximately 14 to 18 years old. Students living outside of the USA are welcome to join!
Where do we stay?
Our hotels are chosen specifically in safe areas and are well suited to facilitating group supervision. We stay in centrally located accommodations, usually within walking distance of the main attractions. We do not use large, impersonal chain hotels on the outskirts of cities; we prefer to select smaller, family-run hotels where we establish personal relationships with the owners.
Our hotel in Barcelona is steps away from the port and from la Rambla–in other words, central enough to be close to the action, but far enough away to get a good night’s sleep. In San Sebastián we will be staying close to the beach in the heart of the Old City. In Valencia we will stay at a traditional guest house right in the center. Our Madrid hotel is right in the heart of downtown.
For safety reasons, we do not publish the names of the accommodations we use. We do not feel it is safe to publish the name of a hotel where a group of teenagers is staying abroad. After registering, participants and parents are given access to our secure parent website where you will be able to see the names of all of the accommodations for the program.
Do most travelers go on their own?
Yes! In fact, over 75% of students who travel with us choose to come independently. This encourages teens to step further outside their comfort zone and make new friends. We believe that one of the most rewarding and exciting elements of travel is the new friendships that form along the way. When we travel by ourselves, we are bound to make new friends from all over the country and even the world. The best part is, you can travel again with your new friends on another TFT program the next summer!
If you are thinking about joining a TFT program by yourself but you are feeling unsure, please let us know! We have plenty of references from solo travelers who had great experiences and would be happy to chat with you about it.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely! We ask that if you do come with a friend, you and your friend(s) maintain openness to meeting new people and sharing this special experience with the entire group.
What do students like most about the Spain: Spanish Language Immersion (21 Days) trip?
On the Spain: Spanish Language Immersion (21 Days) trip, students love that they are able to practice their Spanish with locals in the best possible place to do so, while at the same time learning about Spanish culture and seeing some of the best sights the Spanish coast has to offer.
What is unique about the Spain: Spanish Language Immersion (21 Days) trip?
Between our Spanish lessons tailored specifically to each individual student, the out-of-the-classroom learning and cultural exploration experiences, and of course getting to see so many of Spain’s most vibrant metropolises, the Spain: Spanish Language Immersion (21 Days) program provides unique insider access to Spain and Spanish culture.
What is included?
Tuition cost includes ground transportation; accommodation; chaperones and guides; program-related activities and admissions; taxes and tips; all breakfasts and dinners.
Not included in cost (this is not intended to be an exhaustive list): airfare; lunches; visas and visa application fees; personal and medical expenses; activities and admissions that are not program-related or referenced in the itinerary; beverages other than filtered water at meals; participant expenses that are outside of the program description, such as excess baggage fees and damage to hotels; expenses related to unforeseen circumstances, such as transportation strikes and natural disasters.
How do the optional group flights work?
Upon registration, you will be contacted by our International Logistics Team to discuss the program’s flight details. There is no requirement to take the group flight, but there are several advantages to doing so. The group flight is usually chaperoned by a TFT staff member, and it also offers an opportunity for the students to get to know one another prior to the start of the program. Parents are responsible for coordinating transport to the departure airport – however, the logistics team will send out instructions detailing the exact meeting spot and airport point person. For additional information about flights, visit our dedicated flight page.
Who leads the program?
Our staff is a cut above the rest! We seek out two main characteristics in our counselors – extensive knowledge of and experience in our destinations, and a passion for working with teens. Our staff’s backgrounds include living abroad and working in summer camps or other educational settings. Team members are proven leaders and role models, who connect easily with others and form genuine friendships with each student – all while bringing each destination to life.
We celebrate diversity! Our staff represents 49 different nationalities, speak a combined total of 21 languages, and visited 142 countries. Additionally, 80% of our staff lived or worked abroad in their lives. With so many unique experiences to share, you are sure to gain a global perspective.
Our average minimum ratios are one staff member to every seven participants. Each program has one Trip Director with several support staff, depending on the group size. Directors must be at least 25 years old within the calendar year and have prior experience working with TFT.
What are the safety qualifications for our staff?
Our staff members undergo a rigorous hiring process. They receive the same background check as school educators, an extensive training process to go over all safety precautions and protocols, and are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid. We exclusively hire responsible, multi-talented individuals who are safety-minded and are as passionate about teen travel as we are.
What is the average group size?
We pride ourselves on small group sizes to create a more authentic and personalized experience. Our group sizes fall between 13 and 24 students – the perfect size to facilitate new friendships without feeling lost in a crowd! We believe smaller groups eliminate the likelihood of cliques, and allows for a well-rounded, healthy group dynamic.
How does this program connect to other programs?
Our program dates are designed specifically so that participants can opt to combine trips throughout the summer. When connecting to another program, your counselor will escort you to the airport on the last day of the program and assist you in meeting your next group at your new destination.
What is the food like on this program?
In a word – delicious! At TFT, we believe food should be an integral part of the travel experience and always make an effort to eat at authentic establishments when we can. What better way to immerse yourself in the culture of a place than by sampling the local delicacies, and we encourage students to do so whenever possible! Just as we stay away from Americanized hotel chains, we try to avoid restaurants with menus that cater only to tourists because every good traveler knows the best food is found wherever the locals are eating!
The food in Spain can be a variety of styles, but one of the most amazing food traditions to ever exist remains the same throughout the whole country – tapas! Can’t decide on what to order? No problem! With tapas, you can try a little bit of everything. Tapas are small, shared dishes that accumulate to a full meals served in multiple appetizer sized plates. We will also have an opportunity to cook and eat tapas in Barcelona.
Of course, we are always willing and able to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten allergies, and other dietary restrictions.
Do we ever get time to go off on our own?
Our staff and teens are nearly always together, but we do provide the opportunity to break up into smaller groups to allow for flexibility and customization within the itinerary.
We offer free time in defined safe areas – for example, shopping in a market or exploring a museum. During these times, students remain in groups of at least two and are given no more than an hour. Of course, the counselors remain nearby and available. Additionally, a lifeguard-certified counselor supervises the campers any time they are involved in water activities.
Do I need any vaccinations for this program?
We recommend checking with your family doctor regarding vaccinations and medical advice for the destination you are visiting. For more information, please check the World Health Organization’s website. Upon registration, we provide a list of recommended vaccinations that can be discussed further with your doctor. For Specific questions pertaining to the COVID-19 vaccine, click here.
What kind of visa do you need for this trip?
Any US citizen that enters Europe is automatically granted a free 90-day tourist visa.
When joining a TFT trip from outside of the US, please be sure to check your country’s specific visa requirements.
Do I need to speak the language?
No! Our Spanish classes at the academy are for all levels, from beginner to advanced, so there’s something for everyone. Before the start of the program, you will be complete a placement exam to see which class is most appropriate for your level.