Mahón, also known as Maó, is the capital of Menorca and its second largest city, a picturesque capital that perfectly combines the island’s history, maritime heritage, and vibrant local life. Located on the eastern coast of the island, this small city in Spain forms part of the Balearic Islands and stands proudly beside one of…
When Aaron arrived at Barcelona airport in early summer, he was excited to continue his Spanish immersion after Sevilla. He had already visited cities in Spain before, but now he wanted to truly visit Barcelona as a learner, not just as a tourist. Castelldefels, a peaceful seaside town near the city, became his home base….
Hi! I’m Pilar, your native Spanish host teacher in Valencia with Spanish Express and our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP). One of my favorite parts of teaching is taking students beyond the classroom and into real culture, and that includes flamenco shows, along with many other historical and adventurous excursions. If you’ve never experienced flamenco…
If there is one place in Valencia where the city, its people, and its food truly come alive, it is the central market valencia. Every time I bring my students from the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) here, the reaction is the same: wide eyes, curious smiles, and the sudden realization that this is not…
Nestled on the western end of Menorca, Ciutadella de Menorca is a city where history and Mediterranean charm meet at every turn. The city’s historic quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets, lined with elegant sandstone buildings and shaded squares that whisper stories of Roman, Arab, and Christian rule. As you wander through Ciutadella, you’ll…
To learn Spanish in Extremadura is to step into a rhythm of life where language, culture, and human connection flow naturally. This region of western Spain offers a unique natural setting where learning the Spanish language happens through experience, not instruction alone. The SHIP Cáceres immersion program is part of a wider language-breaking project that…
One of the most meaningful experiences I share with my SHIP students in Ciutadella de Menorca is a walk to the Castell de Sant Nicolau. This visit is never just about reaching a castle or ticking off a sightseeing stop. Instead, it is about movement, conversation, and discovering the rich history of the island together….
Every year on the evening of January 5th, the historic streets of Ciutadella de Menorca fill with light, music, and excitement during the Three Kings Parade (La Cavalcada de Reis). In December, the festive atmosphere in Menorca begins to build, with holiday preparations, special events, and celebrations leading up to the parade. On the island…
Every Christmas season, Barcelona shines brighter than ever, and among the city’s most anticipated winter experiences is Els Llums de Sant Pau . As a highlight of the city’s festive identity, this year marks the fifth anniversary of Els Llums de Sant Pau, celebrating this milestone anniversary with new features and installations. Hosted at the…
Hello, I’m a Menorcan globetrotter with a love for exploring the world. Although I was born in Menorca, I’ve spent more than half of my life in the UK and have also lived in Barcelona. My roots are a mix of Argentinian and French origins, and travel has always been a big part of who…
