Recognizing excellence in homestay language learning and cultural immersion.
A Major Win for Spanish Immersion in Spain
Spanish Express is proud to announce that our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) has won the Go Overseas Community Choice Award 2023 in the Language Schools category.
This award is extra special because it is based on verified student reviews, real stories from people who joined us to learn Spanish in Spain, and shared their experiences on the Go Overseas platform.
As our founder, Mónica Romero, says:
“This award belongs to our students as much as it belongs to us. Their trust, enthusiasm, and willingness to dive into real Spanish life are what make SHIP so special.”
About the Go Overseas Community Choice Awards
The Go Overseas Awards are among the most respected recognitions in the international education sector. Winners are chosen by student ratings in categories such as:
- Quality of instruction
- Accommodation & meals
- Program support
- Cultural immersion
- Overall value
In 2023, Spanish Express achieved an exceptional 4.98 out of 5 average rating from over 80 reviews, a strong signal to anyone searching for the best Spanish immersion program in Spain.
Why Our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program Stands Out
1. 100% Language Immersion
Instead of learning Spanish only in a classroom, our students live and breathe the language daily. Every meal, every excursion, and every conversation is a chance to practice Spanish in real-life situations.
Elaine – UK
“Learning was seamlessly woven into every part of my stay, not just the formal lessons. I loved exploring Barcelona’s modernist architecture with Mónica, then travelling to Valencia with Pilar to marvel at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Between preparing meals, chatting with family, and discovering two incredible cities, I found myself speaking Spanish naturally, without even realising how much I was improving.”
2. Personalized Lessons from Native Teachers
Our native Spanish teachers design every lesson according to the student’s level and goals. We are also a SIELE-accredited center, meaning students can prepare for official exams while immersed in Spanish life.
Ardi – UK
“Every day in Valencia felt like an authentic Spanish experience. From shopping at the market to cooking paella together, I was learning without even realising it. A highlight was visiting La Albufera, where I discovered the beauty of the lagoon and tasted paella in its birthplace. Pilar also guided me step by step in preparing for my SIELE exam, so by the end of the week I felt confident not only in everyday conversations but also in tackling the test itself.”
3. Cultural Experiences as a Classroom
From savoring fresh horchata by the beach in Valencia to exploring Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, our excursions turn culture into a learning tool.
Sophie – UK
“The classes were detailed and well-structured, with homework that kept me engaged and motivated. In Valencia, Pilar tailored our lessons to focus on exactly what I needed for my A Level Spanish exam, and the mix of grammar, conversation, and cultural activities made studying feel enjoyable. My Spanish has improved so much — I feel completely ready for my exams!”
4. Warm, Family-Like Homestays
Living with your teacher means more than accommodation — it’s becoming part of a Spanish family.
Karen – US
“My SHIP experience was unforgettable — in Barcelona, Mónica’s hospitality made me feel at home, with a cozy house by the national park and her father’s incredible cooking, while in Valencia, Pilar’s warmth and energy brought the city’s traditions to life. Experiencing both homes gave me two authentic windows into Spanish culture, and my confidence in speaking grew more than I ever imagined.”
5. Flexible Locations and Dates
Students can choose from vibrant destinations like Barcelona, Menorca, Valencia, Cádiz, Sevilla, Burgos, and Extremadura with flexible start dates and program durations (1–4 weeks).
A Typical Week in Our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program
The Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) offers a structured yet flexible schedule that blends classroom-style learning with authentic, real-life Spanish practice. Students benefit from daily interaction with their host teacher and a variety of cultural activities while still enjoying personal time.
Morning:
Your day starts at a comfortable pace. Some mornings are independent, while others begin with casual conversation over breakfast with your host teacher. By mid-morning, lessons begin. These are tailored to your level, goals, and interests. Sessions can take place in the home, garden, café, market, or other real-world settings. Lessons include grammar, vocabulary, conversational practice, cultural topics, and even preparation for official exams.
Midday:
Lunch is usually shared with your host teacher, and sometimes with family or friends. This is an excellent opportunity to practice Spanish naturally in a relaxed setting. After lunch, there is free time to rest, review notes, explore the local area, or simply relax.
Afternoon:
Three afternoons per week are dedicated to cultural excursions and hands-on learning experiences. These may include visiting historic landmarks, attending local events , or exploring nearby towns.
Evening:
Dinner with your host teacher offers another chance for conversation and cultural exchange. Evenings are usually your own, but you may choose to join optional activities such as watching a Spanish film, playing games, or enjoying a neighborhood walk.
| Time of Day | Activity Description |
| Morning | Independent breakfast or shared with host teacher, followed by tailored lessons in home or real-life settings |
| Midday | Shared lunch with teacher and occasional guests, free time afterwards |
| Afternoon | Cultural activities or excursions (3 times per week) |
| Evening | Shared dinner with teacher, optional social or cultural activities |
| Weekly Total | Approximately 25–35 hours of guided Spanish interaction |
This balanced weekly flow ensures that students are fully immersed in the Spanish language while having the space to process, rest, and enjoy their time in Spain.
What Winning This Award Means
For students, this award is proof that Spanish Express is one of the most trusted and well-reviewed options to study Spanish in Spain.
For our team, it’s motivation to keep delivering personalized teaching, authentic cultural experiences, and a warm, family-like atmosphere.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We’re grateful to:
- Our students for their glowing reviews and trust
- Our host teachers for their dedication and hospitality
- Go Overseas for spotlighting authentic student feedback
Join the Award-Winning Spanish Homestay Immersion Program
If you’ve ever dreamed of speaking Spanish fluently while soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavors of Spain, our Go Overseas award-winning Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) is your gateway. Imagine waking up in a welcoming Spanish home, sharing meals with your host teacher, and practicing the language in bustling markets, charming cafés, and historic streets.
With personalized lessons, authentic cultural experiences, and a supportive, family-like atmosphere, you’ll gain the confidence to speak Spanish naturally in real-life situations. Don’t just learn the language — live it.
Your Spanish adventure starts here. Join SHIP and make Spain your classroom.
