Independent Homestay in Spain (Ages 14+)

A homestay program is a wonderful opportunity to explore the unique culture of Spain. You will be delighted with the Spanish, who tend to be very warm and welcoming. The family is central to life here, and for Spaniards it is common to be close to aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. Fiestas and holidays are central to Spanish life, as are leisurely meals and long conversations in cafes, restaurants, and at home. You will find Spanish life begins later in the day and ends later at night than is usually typical in the United States. By 11 pm the streets of small towns and large cities alike are still brightly lit and the restaurants and cafes are bustling with people.

Locations
Host family placements may occur throughout Spain, and you can choose up to 3 locations in order of preference within Spain. While we are unable to guarantee your requests, we will do our best to accommodate them.

Accommodation and Meals
Host families represent all walks of life, just like families from your home country. Your family may be a couple with or without children, a single parent, or a single person interested in other cultures. Greenheart Travel works together with our partner office in Spain to find the best match for you according to your unique profile and interests. Our partner office maintains a network of trained local coordinators who select, screen, and monitor host families to help make a placement that is appropriate for you.

Within each family you will experience a different dynamic, but they are all motivated by the idea of making cross-cultural friendships. They will be eager to learn about you and your culture and are excited to teach you about their own. Your host family placement will include full board (3 meals per day).

Activities and Sightseeing
Typical family activities might include visiting relatives, going to the movies, and enjoying meals together. Families do not expect for you to be just a boarder, but rather a friend and a part of their family. While the main focus of the program will be getting to know your host family and spending time with them, you will have the chance to see local attractions as well. Exploring the community in which you live can be a great way to further your knowledge of the local culture and Spanish language. However, you should feel comfortable traveling on your own, as host families are not required or expected to be tour guides.

Local Support
Homestay participants will have a local coordinator available to them throughout their stay to help with any difficulties or questions. He or she is trained to work with exchange participants and is there to help you make the most of your experience.

Travel Arrangements
All travel arrangements must be booked according to Greenheart Travel instructions. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you figure out the best way to get to your host community. Some placements are within a reasonable driving distance from the central airport, making it easy to hop in a cab that will take you to your new home. In most cases you will need to take a train or public bus to your host community. Greenheart Travel can arrange for a local coordinator to meet you at the airport and make sure you get on the correct train or bus. However, you should be prepared to make some transfers independently.

Dates
The homestay program in Spain is a 2-4 week program, and participants may set their own start and end dates throughout the year.

Requirements
Applicants must be at least 14 years of age. Basic Spanish is required in order to communicate with your host family. Although many Spanish families may know some English, it should not be expected.

Program Costs 

Included	Not Included
Lodging	Airfare
Full Board (3 meals/day)	In country transportation
Medical/Accident Insurance	Phone cards/internet
Local Coordinator	Sightseeing activities
24 Emergency Staff	Souvenirs
Pre-departure Orientation

Fees may be paid by personal check, money order or credit card.