Top 15 Programs to Escape the Winter

Overview

We would like to introduce you to our Top 15 programs to Escape the Winter. We’re sure you'll enjoy these locations and programs. See below OR click to see other Top 15 Lists.

SPECIAL OFFER: Register by Jan 31st and use the discount "Winter Escape" for any programs below and you can take 10% + another $15 off the price up to a maximum of $200.

1. Spanish & Salsa / Tango (Cordoba, Argentina)

Cordoba's average temperatures are 62-85 degrees from January until March. Although you may go anywhere in Argentina to escape the cold of Europe and North America, we recommend Cordoba as the place to go. 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. Amongst the many Spanish courses offered, we especially like Spanish & Tango dance classes since Tango originated in Argentina. If you wish, you can substitute Salsa dance lessons for Tango.  There are a plethora of programs in Cordoba from regular group Spanish classes to SALUD Medical Spanish programs to volunteer/Internship programs. See Spanish courses in Cordoba, Argentina and see a video of Tango and a video of the school and read our Meet the School interview with the founder and a past participants blogs.

2. Portuguese and Brazilian Cooking (Salvador, Brazil)

Annually, temperatures will average 75-85 during January to March in Salvador.  Salvador is an exciting, culturally rich city in which to study Portuguese. Bahian life is very different from other parts of Brazil, and considered by many to be the most interesting. Because of this, students enjoy adding special cultural classes to further integrate into Bahian the way of life. One of the many courses offered at our school in Salvador Brazil is Portuguese & Bahian Cuisine. This course exposes participants to facts about tradition and the historical and cultural background of Bahian and Brazilian Cuisine. Learn about Salvador's Portuguese Courses and a blog about the cooking program.

3. Costa Rica

Expect temperatures January-March to be around 65-85 degrees in the central valley where San Jose is located and higher on the coasts.  Costa Rica, known as the Switzerland of Central America, is a 'hotspot' for celebrities flocking to the sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. However, AmeriSpan has known of Costa Rica's richness for many years. This small country is a paradise for nature lovers with national parks, jungles, volcanoes, beaches, and more water per square mile than any other country in the world, excluding New Zealand. AmeriSpan programs here are just as diverse as the locations offered. We continue to offer popular programs for adults, college & medical students, teachers and teenagers! No matter which town or program you choose, you will enjoy living the Pura Vida! Learn Spanish in Costa Rica or College Study Abroad in San Jose, Costa Rica or lots of blogs about Costa Rica

4. Rabat, Morocco

Although average temperatures of 46-64 degrees are not as warm as some places in Latin America, Morocco is still comfortable. Based on client feed back and a recent staff visit by AmeriSpan, we recommend Rabat as the place to study Arabic. This lovely colonial city is the perfect setting to begin or continue your Arabic immersion study. Set in a quiet residential neighborhood, this school offers lots of personal attention, with teaching assistants on-hand to help out in every classroom. Wonderful reports from past participants, great accommodation options (including homestay) and Rabat's excellent location for visiting other parts of Morocco all add-up to a can't-miss location! Salaam, Rabat! Learn Arabic in Rabat and AmeriSpan staff Blog and see Rabat Video 1 and Rabat Video 2

5. Spanish & Cooking (Guanajuato, Mexico)

Many parts of Mexico are popular destinations for those fleeing the cold. Guanajuato's average temps from January to March (50-78) may not be as high as some locations but we highly recommend this location.  One of our favorite programs here is Spanish & Mexican Cooking.  Guanajuato was first visited by AmeriSpan's co-founders in September 1993. The city quickly grew on us because we loved the city's youthful vibe, the friendly locals and the quirky city layout. Guanajuato continues to be a highly recommended destination by AmeriSpan's staff. Once you visit, you will never want to go home!  See Guanajuato Spanish Courses and see a video of Guanajuato.

6. Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay's summer is during North America's winter.  Looking for a South American experience but want to avoid some of the big-city costs of Buenos Aires and Santiago? Montevideo is an excellent choice for Spanish students! You'll have a genuine immersion experience and be warmly welcomed by the locals who will love to speak with you! This small city is easy to navigate on foot and by local bus, and the lovely beach of Pocitos and the pedestrian Rambla all along the Rio de la Plata make for great outdoor fun. In fact, you can get even more out of your trip by taking "Spanish and Sailing", "Spanish and Windsurfing." or other special programs.  Read a Meet the School interview with the school's founder and see what a past participant blogged and See Spanish courses in Montevideo, Uruguay

7. Thailand (Bangkok & Chiang Mai)

While locals in Thailand may consider January ‘cold’ and February and March barely warm enough to walk around without a sweater, it is really the perfect time to visit. Temperatures in Bangkok range between 85-93 and it is only slightly cooler up north in Chiang Mai. With AmeriSpan, you can study the Thai language in either city or you can spend time in one of AmeriSpan’s volunteer placements working with disadvantaged children, in local health centers, assist in an elderly home, or teach English in many places including a Buddhist temple! See programs in Thailand and see a video of Bangkok School and AmeriSpan staff blog on Thailand.

8. Dominican Republic (Sosua & Santo Domingo)

No surprise the Dominican Republic is a great place for some warmth during the North American winter or any other time. The country is a short, inexpensive flight from the US where colonial charm and historic ruins keep company with a bustling, modern city. This country's low cost-of-living makes it easy to travel inexpensively to various destinations. This island nation provides ample choices for enjoying nature…mountains, jungle, beautiful beaches and the sea.  We offer programs in Santo Domingo and Sosua. In addition to group Spanish classes, we also offer Spanish & Dance, Windsurfing or Scuba courses, as well as a SALUD Medical Spanish program.  Learn about Spanish programs in Dominican Republic and see a video of Sosua and read Meet the School interview with the director.

9. Cartagena, Colombia

How's an average temperature of 75-86 and a beach? Colombia is still uncharted territory for many Americans; but more and more people are beginning to venture here. Cartagena is one of the most popular cities in Colombia and a great place to start for those making their first trip to the country. With beautiful beaches, a colorful colonial setting, volunteer projects and an active nightlife, there is something for everyone. At this small school, students receive lots of personalized attention and great instruction. Host families are friendly and some say Colombians speak the purest Spanish. Travel tip: Lunch at school is delicious and usually under $4. Study Spanish in Cartagena

10. Italian and the Tastes of Sicily (Taormina-Sicily, Italy)

Expect temperatures of 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit in January to March. There are a few things that come to mind when you think of Italy. For most people food and wine is at the top of the list. Sicily is famous for both and in the “Tastes of Sicily’ program, participants will have the opportunity to indulge in the best cheeses, oils, and wines the region has to offer. Culinary experts will be on hand to teach you the origins of some of Italy’s most popular products. They will teach you how to decipher the good from the bad and how to get the best flavors from your products. Everyone will also bring back recipes and innovative ideas on how to use these products in your own home. This is a sure way to impress your date or friends at your next dinner party!
Learn more about Italian courses in Taormina-Sicily, Italy and see a video from Sicily and  read our Meet the School interview with the founder of the Italian School in Taormina, Sicily and an AmeriSpan staff blog.

11. Antigua, Guatemala

Averaging 72-86 degrees from January to March, Antigua is one of our most popular and least expensive locations. Antigua also happens to be a favorite of several AmeriSpanistas. We offer many programs here that provide you with the opportunity to experience more of the culture for less. Those with limited time and money will appreciate the opportunity presented by the "Un Poco de Todo" program, which incorporates classes, volunteering and excursions to some of the best spots in Guatemala. We also offer a SALUD Medical Spanish program that inexpensively offers medical students the opportunity to gain some professional experience and will prepare them to better serve the Hispanic community in the US. See Spanish Courses in Antigua, Guatemala and read what a past participant blogged and an AmeriSpan Staff blog.

12. Spanish and Scuba (Tenerife, Spain)

During January to March, the temperatures average 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit in Tenerife. Whether you are a beginner scuba diver or you are already certified, AmeriSpan’s Spanish & Scuba program in Tenerife, Spain is a great way to incorporate your interests with language learning. Tenerife is a Spanish island and the largest of the seven Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. It is best known for its beautiful cliffs, exotic beaches and pristine waters. While taking part in 5 hours of scuba diving lessons per week, you will become one with the underwater world full of exotic animals and sea creatures. Great for couples or the whole family, Tenerife's spectacular water with fabulous air and year-round warm water temperature will surely bring you one step closer to your passion for the relaxing adventure that awaits you in Spanish & Scuba! Learn about all Tenerife courses in Spain and see a Video of Tenerife

13. Spanish for Executives (Santiago, Chile)

Like Argentina and Montevideo, Santiago enjoys its summer during our winter.  Santiago is beautifully set in a wide plain with the backdrop of the Andes and lots of public gardens sprinkled throughout the city. The city is close to beaches, mountains and Chile’s lake district.  Well, you don't have to take the super intensive and pricey Spanish for Executives, there are also Regular small group Spanish classes, a SALUD Medical Spanish program and even volunteer/internship placements. The Spanish for Executive program includes premium homestay and 6 hours a day of private Spanish classes customized to the participant's needs.  The price is a little higher than regular group Spanish classes, but the complete cost (including including lodging, meals, classes and getting to Chile) is still less costly than programs offered in the USA by Berlitz, Inlingua and others. In addition to Santiago, we also offer Spanish programs in Pichilemu and Vina del Mar, Chile.  See Spanish Programs in Chile 

14. La Ceiba, Honduras

March to January temperatures are 65-82 degrees in La Ceiba.  La Ceiba is a frugal way to take a Caribbean vacation. The school is located minutes from the beach (not great swimming) and easy travel to a large national park and the Bay Islands. A very inexpensive way to travel is to volunteer, as during your placement you pay only for room and board. La Ceiba offers several volunteer opportunities including helping at an orphanage and a hospital. In addition to Spanish and volunteer programs, we also offer a SALUD Medical Spanish program in La Ceiba.  Remember, Central America is one of the few places where the US dollar is still at a strong advantage! An experience like this is worth every penny! See Spanish programs in Honduras and past participant blogs

15. Learn French (Quebec City, Canada)

OK, we snuck this one in to see if you were paying attention.  This is for those of you that love snow. Here you'll find a touch of old Europe right here in North America...cobblestone streets lined with cafes and restaurants, shaded squares surrounded by 18th and 19th-century architecture. You'll discover the famous Château Frontenac and lovely views of the St. Lawrence River. Best of all, a true immersion locale, French is truly the first language in Quebec City! Learn French in Canada or see a past participant's video blogs.