Your search returned 63 results which have been ranked from best to worst based on your criteria.
With a population of nearly 11 million, Buenos Aires is surprisingly safe and clean. Possessing wide boulevards, spectacular buildings, an active nightlife, fancy restaurants and awsome shopping, this cosmopolitan city has a strong European flavor and an endless variety of things to do.
It has been called the "Southamerican Paris"!! Residents, called "porteños" are famous for be chic and attractive.
However, Buenos Aires can be an expensive city and budget travelers should be prepared.
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Virtually undiscovered by North American tourists, this city has a little of everything for visitors. Founded in 1573, Cordoba boasts many colonial style cathedrals and buildings. Like many other cities in Latin America built by the Spanish, the city was designed using a grid system and is void of intimidating skyscrapers making it easy to navigate despite its size (population 1.5 million). Cordoba is alive with a university town feel, offering many cultural activities and an active nightlife while still being one of Argentina’s most important industrial centers.
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The second largest city in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro (pop. 10 million), is situated on the southeast coast of Brazil. The city is wedged between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
It is know as "Cidade Maravilhosa", the residents are called "Cariocas", they had perfected the art of living.
Language travelers can have the best of both worlds in Rio.They can enjoy the big city atmosphere or relax on famous beaches such as Copacabana or Ipanema.
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One of Brazil’s most fascinating cities is Salvador da Bahia. Here you can find impressive colonial architecture, art galleries, baroque churches and beautiful beaches.
Salvador, Brazil’s third largest city, embraces a mixture of African, Portuguese and Amerindian cultures, most evident in their dance, music, and cuisine. The city’s cuisine utilizes typical African ingredients such as palm oil, peanuts and coconut milk. Several other colorful African traditions displayed around Salvador are capoeira (an African-Brazilian martial arts dance) and the lively candomble ceremony (a religious blend of African and Catholic influences). This mix of cultural flair makes it a very delightful destination for both Brazilians and tourists alike.
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The second-largest French-speaking city in the world, Montreal carries on the European tradition of keeping culture within the reach of the people. The main downtown part of Montreal lies between Mont Royal and Old Montreal, and is the heart of the business and shopping districts. A short walk out of the bustling downtown will take visitors back in time to the cobblestone streets, churches and unique old buildings of Old Montreal, which was the heart of the city until the end of the nineteenth century. Today, its charming buildings are filled with boutiques, bars and restaurants.
Montreal itself is a festival for all the senses. There are great restaurants varying from old world cuisine to storied delis and rib shacks. The 'real' Montreal, though, exists in neighborhoods that celebrate their ethnic origins like Little Italy and Chinatown, and especially the multicultural Plateau Mont-Royal. Boulevard St-Laurent is the city's most lively street, where the shops, bars and ethnic restaurants draw crowds until well into the night. Montreal's nightlife is legendary but is also well represented and balanced with the traditional manifestations of high culture- the symphony, opera and ballet.
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Quebec City, located about 400km from the Gulf of St.Lawrence, is one of the world's most picturesque cities and is the capital of the province of Quebec. It is the cradle of French culture in Canada with a 95% French-speaking population. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, today Greater Quebec City has approximately 500,000 inhabitants.
Quebec City is the only North American city, north of Mexico, to have maintained its fortifications. With its old city walls, the characteristic green copper roofs and fortified Citadel, UNESCO declared the provincial capital a World Heritage site in 1985. The city is split into two levels, Upper Town and Lower Town, which are connected by stone stairways and a municipal lift.
The heart of the 'Upper Town' is Old Town (Vieux Quebec) here its cobblestone streets filled with bars, cafes, restaurants and shaded squares emphasize the European flare. This section of the city demonstrates fine 18th-and 19th-century architecture, notably the Place D'Armes and the first-class hotel Chateau Frontenac. In front of the Château Frontenac is a wide promenade with 310 wooden steps leading up to the Citadel, which affords incredible views across the St Lawrence River.
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Santiago is beautifully set in a wide plain with the backdrop of the Andes and lots of public gardens sprinkled throughout the city. About 4 million people live in this modern city full of skyscrapers. Santiago offers the comforts and cultural activities of a big city and is close to beaches, mountains and Chile’s lake district.
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An ancient capital of six dynasties, Beijing is one of the most famous historical and cultural cities in the world. Nowadays Beijing has also become a 21t century capital.
Temples, parks, and historic sites all sing wonderfully and powerfully of the dream that was Old Cathay, but in the same hallowed space there's a new Beijing taking shape. Just outside the exquisite walls of Beijing's monuments, steel and concrete are steadily replacing silk and carved wood.
At its heart is the magnificent Forbidden City, a royal palace on a scale that beggars belief. Běijīng is also home to sublime temples that aspire to cosmological perfection, while the city centre is crisscrossed by the enchanting hútòng, ancient alleyways that teem with life, as they did hundreds of years ago.
As if that's not enough, the majestic Great Wall snakes its way across the hills north of town.
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Shanghai is one of the largest industrial cities in China. Being an important seaport and China's largest commercial and financial center, it includes a blend of Chinese and colonial European architectural style; the old and the modern. It is known as the "the Oriental Paris," a shopper's paradise.
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Colombia’s capital is a city of contrasts. Though home to 8 million people, it is possible to find peace in the century old plazas and churches. Yet it is hard not to get caught up in the hectic day-to-day traffic shadowed by towering skyscrapers. Bogota will keep any visitor busy, with over 50 museums and countless other monuments, churches, cultural events, and a thriving nightlife. At Colombia’s geographic center, Bogota also makes a practical base for exploring the country.
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Cartagena is Colombia’s most visited city and it is easy to see why. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, this colonial city has managed to retain the charm, architecture, and romance of its past. The ramparts and city walls that once protected Cartagena, are still standing today. Inside these walls, the vibrant, colorful, and eclectic mixture of Caribbean, African, & Spanish influences can still been seen, tasted, and heard.
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Long known as the surf capital of Costa Rica, Jaco is an active beach town, attracting both foreigners and ticos alike. Jaco's proximity as the closest real beach town to San Jose makes it an extremely popular weekend destination for residents from the capital region. In addition to fantastic surf conditions, Jaco offers endless opportunities for water sports, other outdoor activities and a bustling nightlife.
As a beach location, Jacó Beach is a well known tourist destination. Students should understand that they must do their best in interacting with locals to practice their Spanish in order to maximize their immersion experience while still allowing them to enjoy all that this tropical paradise has to offer.
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The town itself is called Quepos, but the area closer to the national park shares the park's name. Once a thriving fishing port, Quepos and Manuel Antonio now survive on the growing number of tourists that the national park attracts. The national park is both a beach and a forest where one can spot: white face monkeys, sloths, iguanas and other wildlife. Even when the park is crowded with tourists, one can go a bit further to find a private piece of paradise. The town is full of restaurants and hotels. Beaches and water sports are available.
As a beach location, Manuel Antonio is a well known tourist destination. Students should understand that they must do their best in interacting with locals to practice their Spanish in order to maximize their immersion experience while still allowing them to enjoy all that this tropical paradise has to offer.
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Santo Domingo de Heredia with the population of 60,000 inhabitants
is a beautiful small city located between the capital, San José, and Heredia.
Both cities can be easily reached by bus just in few minutes.
This nice, quiet, small town with its friendly and easy-going atmosphere is an ideal destination because you will be able to focus on your language studies and at the same time enjoy a lively town full of leisure options, bars and restaurants. It can be also a good starting point for the adventure tours around Costa Rica.
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Santo Domingo is situated on the ocean, providing a beautiful vista while beaches suitable for swimming are located 45 minutes outside of the city. The bustling capital, with a population of 2.9 million, is heavily influenced by merengue, the national dance. Nestled amongst the new office buildings is Old Santo Domingo, with colonial charm and many interesting sites to see, like what is said to be the First Church of the New World and the resting place of Christopher Columbus himself.
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Located on the north coast, about 20 kms east of Puerto Plata, Sosua is in a beautiful bay with sandy beaches great for sunbathing and swimming and is surrounded by amazing high coral cliffs. Through the past years it has become a popular resort town with much nightlife and quality restaurants. The main beach is Playa Sosua known for its golden-yellow sand. On one end of the beach is El Batey featuring residential streets, gardens, restaurants, shops and hotels. On the other end is Los Charamicos, the business and residential sector for the locals who work in Playa Sosua, making this area a very traditional one.
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Over the last few years Montanita has been discovered as one of the premier beach towns of the coast. Its many diving sites and the nearby Isla del Plata make it known for its world-class diving. Although it's small, it is a booming beachside retreat attracting international travelers as well as an alternative Ecuadorian crowd. This is an ideal location to relax while practicing your Spanish with locals and meeting other travelers.
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Placed in the centre of a valley, surrounded by volcanoes, Quito is one the highest (over the sea level) capital cities in South America.
The city has the best preserved historic centre in all Latin America and it was declared by UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quito is also a vibrant and comfortable city, where you can enjoy going out in the afternoon, have drink with the locals, and feel the relaxed and warm Ecuador!!
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Montpellier is one of southern France’s fastest-growing cities, competing with Toulouse for the title of the most dynamic southern city. It is a bustling and ancient university city still renowned for its medical school with approximately one fourth of the city’s population in students. This city has an energetic bar and nightclub scene as well as tree-lined promenades with cafes, historic monuments and a charming old city with narrow alleys.
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Nice is located on the Mediterranean coast, between the Alps and Italy’s Gulf of Genoa. Nice is the capital of the Cote D’Azur and is well known for its fine architecture and proximity to Cannes, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. The opportunities for sight-seeing are endless, and the great waterfront of the Riviera has made this area one of the most visited regions of France.
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Normandy is located on the English Channel and is often compared with the countryside of Southern England. The area is known for its peaceful farmland sub-divided by hedges and trees. The department of Haute-Normandy is anchored by the historical city of Rouen, home of Joan of Arc. Rouen is easily accessible by train from Paris and other major towns around the region. It is well known for its many spires, church towers, museums and the Old City that has been painstakingly restored after World War II.
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Nicknamed "the City of Lights," Paris is truly one of the world's most beautiful cities. This capital city is bisected by the Seine River and is made up of 20 districts. Each district has its own character and meaning for Parisians. The art, music, theater, fashion, literature, and architecture of Paris make it a mecca for travelers from all over the world.
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Berlin is laden with historical charm, a vast sprawling city with pockets of attractions dotted all over, from the old streets of East Berlin where little has changed in fifty years to the grand architecture of Museum-sinsel and Unter den Linden. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by Berlin today, where one may find everything from authentic beer halls and old Soviet era haunts, to buzzing style bars and Latino nightclubs. Today's quintessential Berlin experience is to laze through a summer day in the Tiergarten with the rabble of construction just out of earshot, sipping on a chilled pilsner beer while you witness a city reinventing itself as one of the great European capitals.
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Located to the north of the Bavarian Alps, on the River Isar, Munich (München) is a city that combines proud provincialism with international glamour. Founded by Duke Henry the Lion in 1158, the city had become, within a century, the seat of the Wittelsbach dynasty, who ruled the duchy, electorate and kingdom of Bavaria until the end of World War I.
Their influence is evident in the concentration of grand Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and neo-classical architecture adorning Munich’s streets. Perhaps most importantly, the Wittelsbach’s patronage of the arts and extensive art collections provided the basis for Munich’s world-class museums and galleries.
The city acquired the name München (‘home of the monks’) from its first monastery, founded in the eighth century. Monasteries have since played an important role in the history of the city, not least by starting the beer brewing traditions for which the city has received worldwide renown.
Munich's warm summers, garden restaurants, open-air stages, world famous Oktoberfest celebration, and snowy winters with romantic Christmas markets make it a great place to visit year-round.
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This ancient Greek capital city, named after the goddess Athena, is located on the southeastern end of the country. Today, a modern city of more than four million people, and the largest city in Greece, Athens is one of Europe’s most popular visitor destinations. Built around the ruins of the Acropolis, this city is full of lively taverns, bustling shops, a well-known flea market in the old quarter, and narrow winding alleyways. The newly constructed pedestrian walk connects what is being referred to as an “Archaeological Park”.
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A mix of Orthodox Christian, Turkish and Venetian influences, Crete is the largest and southern most of all Greek Islands. Its location guarantees a Mediterranean climate, one of the mildest in Europe. From the beautiful sandy beaches in the tourist resorts to the ancient archeological sites, magnificent mountains, tiny coves, and remote mountain villages, this land of contrasts has something to offer to everyone.
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In a country that treasures its colonial past, Antigua is a prized possession. One of the most beautiful colonial cities in all of Latin America, Antigua is known for its charm and relaxed atmosphere that attracts students and travelers from all parts of the world. Antigua is a popular destination for language study.
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Centrally located, Jaipur (aka ‘Pink City’) is the capital of the state of Rajasthan and it acts as kind of a gateway into the rest of Rajasthan. The city is a ‘planned city’ closely following Hindu architectural principles which call for strict geometric planning. Construction began in 1727 and city’s population has grown to more than 3 million. Jaipur is regarded by experts as one of the best-planned cities in the Indian subcontinent and a popular tourist destination because of its history, palaces, forts and bazaars.
WORDS of CAUTION: While most people adjust to India’s vast differences within one to two weeks of arrival, India is one of AmeriSpan’s most challenging locations for students in terms of culture shock. You will encounter extreme heat and crowds of people, animals, sights, sounds, smells and chaos. In a country where half a billion people live below the poverty line, our programs in India are for the more flexible traveler. You should be expecting a high level of culture shock and be ready to embrace it. Specifically, the lodging here is extremely basic. Some students have access to western-style toilets, while others offer Indian-style facilities. There are fans but no air conditioning, and students are expected to clean up after themselves. Part of the experience of visiting and volunteering in India is really getting to understand the people you're helping. Students and volunteers should be prepared for the extremely basic conditions offered.
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Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is considered the heartbeat of the country with its breathtaking architecture and sculpture, cultural events and museums. The streets of Florence radiate the charm of Italian culture.
Walking around Florence is walking in the past.
This city never fail to impress.
The Medici Family were the generous patrons, under thier command the city flourished, the city’s artists and sculptors, regaled the city with their finest creations. Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, Giotto, the Lippis, Masaccio, Botticelli, Pontormo and a host of others left their mark.
You can see that at the Uffizi Galleria, at Palazzo Pitti and in the Accademia.
The powerful Florentine families wanted to display greatness, and the succesfully did it.
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Milan is the second largest city in Italy, as well as its financial and fashion center. It is also a hub for national and international travel boasting the country's largest international airport, most rail connections, and most modern subway system. It is a modern, cosmopolitan city with no shortage of cultural highlights. The city center has many good museums and a particularly good selection of world-class art exhibitions and individual pieces. The Brera Gallery is an international treasure house, on par with the Uffizi Gallery in Florence or London's National Gallery; and Michelangelo's last work, the extraordinary Pieta Rondanini, in the civic galleries of the Sforza Castle, is a surprise find for many of the city's visitors. And if you tire from the great shopping, artistic treasures, and fine dining, you can hop on a train and in less than an hour enjoy a relaxing day by one of the large lakes just outside the city.
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Rome is located in the middle of Italy on its western coast, about 20km inland. The sense of history, art, and architecture in Rome is all-embracing, and quite simply a feast for the eyes. There is a hectic vibrancy of anarchic traffic, piazzas, fountains, and fabulous restaurants. The historic city center is quite small and most of the major sights are within a reasonable distance of the central railway station.
Walking around Rome is a step into the world’s biggest open air museum.
From spectacular palaces, millenium-old churches and basilicas, grand roman ruins, cahrming places ornate with Barrocan statues in graceful fountains, Rome has an immensely rich historical heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it one of Europe's and the world's most visited and beautiful European capitals.
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Siena is located in the heart of Tuscany and is known as the best-preserved medieval town in Italy. Set on three hills, the city is drawn together by winding alleys and steep steps, whilst the Piazza del Campo stands at its heart, and the Duomo and St Maria della Scala serve as additional cultural landmarks. This magnificent Cathedral, begun in 1230, is an important point of reference for the entire Italian Gothic architecture, since it provided a basic model for a cathedral and was subsequently adopted in many other Italian cities. Surrounded by olive groves and the vineyards of Chianti, Siena is a precious medieval town with great architectural treasures.
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Known as La Serenissima, "the most serene," Venice is a unique and beautiful treasure. This floating city is built on 117 small islands, has some 150 canals and 409 bridges (only three of which cross the Grand Canal). The historic centre is divided into six sestieri (quarters): San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio and Castello. It covers a deceptively small area (7.6 sq km/3 sq mi) - if you don't get lost (which you will!), walking from Cannaregio in the northwest to Dorsoduro in the south should take only 30 minutes. The city's 'main street' is the Grand Canal, which passes each of the districts as it twists along the length of Venice from the railway station to San Marco. Although it may be small, Venice offer a seemingly endless list of art venues, architectural masterpieces, cultural activities, and (of course) shopping and eating!
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Tokyo’s population of over 12 million is crammed together (more than 14,000 people per sq mile) making the city crowded, lively, hectic, exciting and overwhelming all at the same time. Tokyo is actually a web of interconnected “villages” consisting of 23 city wards, 26 cities, 5 towns and 8 villages. Home to the Imperial Palace, Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts blending its ancient character with the modern economic power of Japan.
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Originally built on seven hills, Jordan’s capital and biggest city now spans over nineteen hills in north-western Jordan. A cosmopolitan city of around 3 million, Amman offers everything from shopping malls to ancient Roman ruins, and some of the grandest mosques in the Middle East. The cooling effects of its location on a plateau allows Amman to enjoy four seasons of excellent weather. Frequent bus connections to other cities in Jordan as well as to major cities in neighboring countries make Jordan a great jumping-off point to visit other countries in the region.
The bustling urban area includes the Old City, centered around the Souk (colorful traditional market) and the King Hussein Mosque. There you can explore the capital's greatest souqs, fine museums, ancient constructions, monuments, and cultural sites.
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Home to over 10 million people, Seoul is South Korea’s capital and a city full of contrasts where the old city blends its ancient character with the sophisticated, hustle and bustle of modern day Korea. Situated in one of the most mountainous regions in the world, South Korea offers breathtaking scenery including plunging coastlines, undulating hills, valleys and coastal plains.
This ancient city has been the capital of Korea since the 14th century. Some of the old city gates can still be seen - most notably the South Gate (or Nam-Dae-Mun), which like Paris' Champs-Elysees, is situated right in the middle of a modern city, serving as a constant symbol of Korea's proud past intersecting with its bright future.
Seoul’s subway system is clean, punctual, and goes everywhere. Street signs are usually in both Korean and English which make it easier than one might imagine to navigate.
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For nearly 200 years beginning in 1558, Guanajuato was one of the richest silver producing cities in the world. The city possesses many subterranean passageways and narrow, winding streets that make it truly unique. Brightly painted houses line steep slopes of a ravine that once contained a river. This extremely charming city is culturally very lively and exhibits an energetic, youthful feel. This is due in part to the 15,000 students attending the University of Guanajuato that is known for its art programs. During the last two weeks of October, Guanajuato hosts the Cervantes Arts Festival, attracting famous artists from around the world.
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With a population of close to 9 million in the city proper, Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world. Today, Mexico City is the financial, political and cultural center for all of Mexico that was once the center of the Aztec empire. The current town square, Zocalo, is built on the same spot where Montezuma's palace and pyramids once stood. This energetic and dazzling metropolis with close to 350 neighborhoods offers limitless activities and adventures from archeological treasures, international cuisine, electric nightlife, to inviting plazas and gardens.
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The state of Oaxaca is one of the most important archaeological zones in Mesoamerica. The city boasts an abundance of colonial architecture and a strong indigenous presence. The ambiance is both relaxed and energetic. Oaxaca has one of the most active central plazas in Mexico; there is rarely a dull moment. The blend of cultures sets a tone that is both remote and cosmopolitan.
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Playa del Carmen is located in the center of Mexico's Riviera Maya, at the Yucatan Peninsula. It is a small town still maintaining some of its charms of its former existence as a fishing village. Playa del Carmen is known for its beautiful white sand beaches surrounded by the warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean. This location is also close to the fascinating Mayan ruins like Tulum, Coba, Chichen Itza and Chaak tun Cave. Playa del Carmen is only 45 min. away from Cancun and a one-hour ferry away from Cozumel Island. Those with an interest in snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing or just relaxing on the beach will find the area especially wonderful.
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The country’s capital, Panama City, is a good base to see the many points of interest around the country. The city boasts the longest shopping street in the world, Old World charm and modern sky-scrapers. The old district of San Felipe (also known as Casco Antiguo or Casco Viejo) juts into the sea on the southwestern side of town. The cosmopolitan energy and festive Caribbean flair is evident. Moreover, a number of beaches are located 30 minutes to 1.5 hours from the capital.
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Visitors to Cuzco get a glimpse of the richest heritage of any South American city, Cusco is a premier destination.
Once the capital of the great Inca civilization, Cusco is also home to magnificent examples of colonial architecture. The stone foundations of Inca temples are still visible in the colonial buildings in and around the city. Many international tourists are drawn to Cusco for its close proximity to the famous Machu Picchu ruins and the Inca Trail. Due to the high elevation, it is cold at night and cool during the day year round. However, this can be a great excuse to seek out the many Indian markets selling the beautiful wool sweaters and textiles of Peru. Surrounded by the wealth of its Inca history and offering the comforts of an internationally known town, Cusco truly is an exciting place to learn Spanish.
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This ancient capital of Poland, Krakow, was the only major city in the country to have come out of World War II virtually undamaged. This magical city, on the banks of the Wisla River, has one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Krakow contains dozens of churches covering almost every architectural period and is surrounded by monasteries and abbeys. In terms of tourism, Krakow has emerged as a rival to Prague and is thought to be a jewel of Central/Eastern Europe. Due to the increasing numbers of visitors, the city center has more cafes, pubs, and ethnic restaurants opening which only adds to Krakow’s already thriving nightlife. The student population of the city numbers over 180,000 and their presence gives Krakow a refreshing youthful feel.
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The capital of Portugal, spread across the hills overlooking the Rio Tajo, is home of 1 millio people. The city possesses the charm and excitement of the old and the new. The city is lively and varied, yet has a surprisingly easy-going pace. From the broad scenic streets to the quaint neighborhood districts to the towering city skyscrapers, its different landscapes make Lisbon a diverse city for the language traveler.
Living a Lisboa experience means encompasses enjoying a fresh pastel de nata (pastel de Belem, pastry) and bica (espresso) on a petite leafy plaza, to window-shopping in elegant Chiado. It’s mingling with Lisboetas at a neighbourhood festival or watching the sunset from the old Moorish castle.
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San Juan, situated on the northern coastal valley of the island with a population of about 1.4 million is Puerto Rico's metropolitan capital. Founded in 1521 by the Spaniards, San Juan is the second oldest European-established city of the Americas. Its port location makes Puerto Rico a convenient export of sugar, tobacco, coffee, and tropical fruits; however the tourism and banking industries of San Juan are also booming. Referred to as the "Wall Street of the West Indies," "La Milla de Oro" (Golden Mile) in the Hato Rey area is the headquarters of many world banks, making banking an important factor in Puerto Rico's economic growth. San Juan also boasts year-round warm weather, lovely beaches, a vibrant nightlife and casinos in the Ocean Park and Isla Verde sections of San Juan. Rio Piedras is home to the University of Puerto Rico and about 25,000 university students. The historic charm in Old San Juan and cosmopolitan North American influence throughout the rest of the capital, make it easily one of the most progressive, must-see cities in the Caribbean.
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This capital city of Russia would not be called a beautiful city however, Moscow is a very dynamic city, an up and coming cultural center post communism. Great Russian writers and artists whose works were banned in the past are quickly regaining the creative renown and honor they enjoyed decades ago. It has been described as the political, scientific, historical, architectural and business center of the country. While its old Russian-style structures are being radically preserved, so is the people�s morale. There are many restaurants, bars and clubs and colorful markets hum with activity.
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St. Petersburg, the second largest city in the nation with 6 million inhabitants, is the home of the Czars and one of Europe's most beautiful cities. This is a city of palaces, renowned cultural institutions, museums, and outdoor landmarks - all reflecting the diversity and history of this grand city. Adding to the atmosphere are the many branches of the Neva river, giving St. Petersburg an almost Venice-like feel. It is called the 'Cultural Capital of Russia' and lives up to the title with year-round festivals, like the White Nights festivities at Midsummer.
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Alicante is the heart of the Costa Blanca, a good sized town of about 300,000 inhabitants. Gateway to the fabulous and famous wide sandy beaches of the Spanish Mediterranean coast, this city offers the visitor both tranquility and style. The Castillo de Santa Barbara, perched on a hill overlooking the city and the sea, is not particularly interesting but it makes for a great picture!
Alicante's center is remarkably contained and you can reach the various sections in only a couple of minutes walking. The Old Quarter (El Barrio) in front of the Cathedral consists of narrow winding streets and here is where you can find most of the very active nightlife. Then there is excellent shopping in wide, tree-lined avenues and for a little 'See and be seen' action you could stroll along the Explanada, the promenade along the Marina, and have a drink at one of the many terraces that line the promenade. This, combined with the pleasant climate, many Festivals and interesting villages and Roman ruins nearby, makes for a destination where you will never get bored!
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Barcelona, a city of 2 million, is literally bursting with art and culture.
It has been breaking ground in art, architecture and has its peculiar Catalonian style, between southern Europe and northern Spain.
The Modernism trail all around the city followed by the colorful and intricate architecture created by the world famous Gaudi, the Gothic Neighborhood, and the pedestrian street Las Ramblas make this city a traveler and art lovers paradise.
Known as Spain's second capital, Barcelona is a modern metropolis and cultural mecca. Located on the Mediterranean coast with mountains rising up behind it, Barcelona is the gateway from Spain to the rest of Europe. Both beach and ski resorts are within easy access.
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Barcelona, a city of 2 million, is literally bursting with art and culture.
It has been breaking ground in art, architecture and has its peculiar Catalonian style, between southern Europe and northern Spain.
The Modernism trail all around the city followed by the colorful and intricate architecture created by the world famous Gaudi, the Gothic Neighborhood, and the pedestrian street Las Ramblas make this city a traveler and art lovers paradise.
Known as Spain's second capital, Barcelona is a modern metropolis and cultural mecca. Located on the Mediterranean coast with mountains rising up behind it, Barcelona is the gateway from Spain to the rest of Europe. Both beach and ski resorts are within easy access.
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This Andalusian city of 260,000 inhabitants is situated in southern Spain among the snow-covered mountains of the Sierra Nevada, the desert landscape of Tabernes, and the beautiful beaches of the Costa del Sol. It is also the third largest university city and exudes a lively atmosphere, from Flamenco in the streets to year-round cultural programs in music, dance, theater, and cinema. The Alhambra is here, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The city's southern-style Spanish architecture is as heavily influenced by the Moors as its way of life is influenced by Andalusian Flamenco and dance traditions.
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The famed capital of Spain is a cosmopolitan city of unequaled culture and nightlife. With everything from world famous museums to high fashion shopping, one never runs out of things to do in Madrid. Conveniently located at a maximum of 5 hours by train or bus to any other city in Spain, its central location makes it an ideal home base for language travelers.
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This city knows how to live, and so do Madrilenians. It might not be as splendour as Paris, not have the history of Rome, not be as cool as Berlin, but Madrid is the most passionate city in all Europe. It is a must!
The famed capital of Spain is a cosmopolitan city of unequaled culture and nightlife. With everything from world famous museums, fine restaurants and tapas bars, unespected live music scene, to high fashion shopping, one never runs out of things to do in Madrid.
Madrid welcomes visitors, it is said that if you are in Madrid, you are from Madrid.
Conveniently located at a maximum of 5 hours by train, plane or bus to any other city in Spain, its central location makes it an ideal home base for language travelers.
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Malaga is a vibrant city located on the Costa del Sol coast with a real southern port atmosphere and a burgeoning cultural scene that offers extremely pleasant and stable weather throughout the year. It is the capital of Andalucia and the second largest city in the region. It is a city of sea and sand together with important heritage, monuments and museums. Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga and his most famous works can now be seen where it all began in the newly inaugurated Picasso Museum. Filled with narrow and winding cobblestone streets and magnificent plazas, Malaga is also known for its fine food, especially its excellent seafood.
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Known as the jewel of the Costa del Sol since, this coastal resort town is located about an hour south of Malaga.
Marbella has 2 sides, the small curvy streets and white washed colonial style buildings make this Andalusian town a picturesque vacation spot.
And the fashionable part. whe in 1950s Alfonso von Hohenlohe, part Spanish and part Austrian, built the Marbella Club Hotel, the town turned into a playground of the international jet set.
Marbella has a warm microclimate all year round.
There is also the Golden Mile where to find many boutiques, restaurants, and bars towards Puerto Banús.
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Known as “La Dorada,” or Golden City, for the glow of its sandstone buildings. It is one of the 5 Spanish cities declared by UNESCO as a “Mankind Heritage” site. The world's second oldest university is here, boasting a student population of 30,000 (5,000 of whom are foreigners) that provides a lively atmosphere and nightlife. Enjoy concerts, lectures, and theater, or congregate in the famous Plaza Mayor.
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Known as “La Dorada,” or Golden City, for the glow of its sandstone buildings. It is one of the 5 Spanish cities declared by UNESCO as a “Mankind Heritage” site. The world's second oldest university is here, boasting a student population of 30,000 (5,000 of whom are foreigners) that provides a lively atmosphere and nightlife. Enjoy concerts, lectures, and theater, or congregate in the famous Plaza Mayor.
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This city is the capital of Andalusia with a population of about 700,000. The historical influence of the Moors is still present in old Sevillan architecture today. This is especially evident in the cathedral that is one of the most spectacular in all of Spain. The famous customs and traditions of bullfighting and flamenco help make Sevilla an exciting and spectacular city for the language traveler.
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Tenerife, a Spanish island, is the largest of the seven Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. Tenerife is the most populated in the archipelago. The capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is as well as the second biggest city in the archipielago, the capital of the island and seat of the island government (cabildo insular).
Puerto de la Cruz is the second largest tourist city on the island with accommodtion for around 30,000 tourists. In contrast with the modern resorts of the south, El Puerto has had a great tradition as a place of relaxation since the end of the last century when the spa, which today is the Hotel Casino Tauro, was built. The accommodation offered in Puerto de la Cruz is also different from most of the other places in the islands since hotels predominate over apartments.
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Valencia, the third largest city of Spain, is on the Mediterranean coast and boasts nice weather throughout the year. During its 2000-year history, Valencia has been occupied by Rome, the Visigoths, the Moors, and the Spanish Kings. The old city center reflects this history with captivating ruins from all the eras. Although Barcelona and Madrid tend to get most of the attention, Valencia has invested heavily in developing the city. There are museums, fabulous beaches, and lively nightlife. There are not many tourists, so while enjoying all benefits of a big, historic city on the Mediterranean coast, you are sure to be completely immersed in the Spanish way of life!
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Valencia, the third largest city of Spain, is on the Mediterranean coast and boasts nice weather throughout the year. During its 2000-year history, Valencia has been occupied by Rome, the Visigoths, the Moors, and the Spanish Kings. The old city center reflects this history with captivating ruins from all the eras. Although Barcelona and Madrid tend to get most of the attention, Valencia has invested heavily in developing the city. There are museums, fabulous beaches, and lively nightlife. There are not many tourists, so while enjoying all benefits of a big, historic city on the Mediterranean coast, you are sure to be completely immersed in the Spanish way of life!
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Located on the east end of Lake of Geneva, Montreux, the most visited Swiss Riviera resort, has long been an oasis for expatriates because of its spectacular views of the Dents-du-Midi mountain peaks, a profusion of Mediterranean vegetation and lakeside parks. Most densely populated during the summer months, this resort is favored year-round. The best way to discover the charms of this city is on foot where you can visit the old quarter with its zigzagging streets, hillside terraces and old houses. On the lake, only 2 miles south of Montreux, is the most impressive castle in the country, called the Chateau of Chillon.
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Located on the Rio de la Plata, Montevideo (population 1.9 million) is lively and modern, yet more like a large town than a city. The people are mostly of European descent, as in Buenos Aires and Santiago. Nine sandy beaches stretch along Montevideo’s waterfront, and one is only 3 blocks from the school. The most popular beach resort is Punta del Este, a narrow peninsula between the Rio de la Plata and Atlantic Ocean.
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