July 14: Departure Day, Newark to Madrid
In support of program and student safety, all details regarding specific travel and accommodations are available in the parent/guardian digital locker under Essential Information.
July 15 – 18: Llanes
Begin the program with five days on Spain’s northern coast in the Asturias region, with an orientation to Spanish language and culture. Get to know your group and participate in daily language lessons. Enjoy a picnic on the beach, play soccer with Spanish friends, and learn how to surf with the help of Spanish instructors. Take a daytrip to Covadonga, the site of the Battle of Covadonga of 722, and learn about Christian troops’ first victory during the Muslim occupation of Spain and the 700-year Reconquista that followed.
July 19 – 21: Fuente Dé
Travel south to the Picos de Europa mountain range. Take the teleférico, or gondola, up to the snow-capped peaks. Hike on spectacular trails past cows, sheep, horses, and goats, and meet the shepherds who spend their summers in the mountains with their herds. Spend an afternoon canyoning in a mountain river, rappelling down waterfalls and jumping in natural pools. Continue your language immersion, and sample regional Spanish cuisine.
July 22 – 25: Madrid
Explore the lively streets of Madrid. Visit world-class art museums including the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen Bornemisza. Learn about the history of the Spanish monarchy through a tour of the Royal Palace. Sample a small plates at a tapas market, visit Real Madrid’s stadium Santiago Bernabéu, and paddle a rowboat in Madrid’s gorgeous Retiro park. Take a day trip to Segovia to see its Roman aqueduct or to Toledo to visit the Alcázar and ancient synagogue.
July 26 – 30: Daystay in Albacete
Immerse yourself in local culture by pairing with a Spanish teenager. This is an opportunity to experience Spanish life as a local. Practice your language skills as you join in their daily activities, meet the family, and form lasting friendships. During this week, you will be with your Spanish brother or sister during the day, and come back together as a group in the evening. You will also spend two full days exclusively with your host family so that you can experience a typical summer day among family and friends in Spain.
July 31 – August 2: San José
Head south to Andalucía for three days in San José. Located within Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, San José is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the end of your journey. Explore Playa de los Genoveses and Playa del Mónsul, two of the park’s most beautiful beaches. Take an early-morning hike in the desert landscape, sea-kayak along the rugged coast, snorkel in the turquoise Mediterranean waters. In the evenings, stargaze with a Spanish astronomer, enjoy a special final dinner with your group, and share all of the memories you have created together.
August 3: Return Day, Madrid to Newark
In support of program and student safety, all details regarding specific travel and accommodations are available in the parent/guardian digital locker under Essential Information.
August 3: Airport Hotel
One of your leaders will stay overnight with the group. If you have reserved and paid for a hotel room, we will send you an email one week prior to departure with details about the hotel reservation.