Who we are

The Spanishtown model is unique.

Here are a few of Spanishtown’s distinctive features, many of which are not available in other immersion programs.

1) “All Spanish, all the time”. No English may be spoken at any time.

2) A minimum of 5 days of immersion in Spanish. The experience cannot be reduced to a part-time or a weekend format.

3) At least one native speaker present for each participant. Complete immersion requires constant interaction with native speakers.

4) At least five hours a day of one-on-one conversations, rotating every hour. The emphasis is on communicating, not on teaching fine points of grammar or offering formal instruction.

5) A Spanish-speaking Program Director, carefully selected and thoroughly trained in the Spanishtown model. The Program Director works full-time, ensuring that participants have the best possible experience of complete immersion in Spanish.

6) A comfortable hotel or adult retreat facility with private rooms available, removed from normal, everyday life. A facility of excellent quality is a must, because of the demanding nature of the experience. Exposure to English should be minimized.

7) Daily worship led by participants (peregrinos) working with Spanish-speaking guides (guías). Worship can provide personal renewal as well as training and preparation for cross-cultural ministry.

8) A minimum of 3 to 4 hours of group interaction each day. Possibilities include skits, group exercises, storytelling, songs, and presentations.

9) A degree of competency in Spanish for all participants. To benefit from complete immersion, a low intermediate level (or higher) of competency in Spanish is essential.

10) Guides who receive an appropriate honorarium rather than a salary for their service at Spanishtown. The work is a ministry rather than a job being performed primarily for pay.

11) Space for outdoor walking during one-on-one conversations.

12) A music director to help lead worship, teach language and culture through songs, and build group spirit.