I answer a lot of questions about our TESOL and Experience Spanish Immersion trip to Ecuador, but one of the most common unknowns is “What will it be like when I arrive?” Here’s a quick look at your first day in Quito…
After flying over ocean and mountains, you’ll arrive in Quito and we’ll be there to meet you at the airport. The weather might be a little chilly and crisp if you come in the evening…you are high in the Andes afterall. We’ll connect you with your host family, who will likely be there to welcome you, too, and you’ll accompany them to your “home away from home.” Equinox Spanish Schools’ host families have been hosting internationals for years, and your family will be ready for your arrival, your questions, and your rusty or non-existent Spanish. (And yes, they have hot water for showers, clean water to drink, and toilets that flush. I know you wanted to ask. :-)) Most flights arrive into Quito late in the evening, so you’ll likely head to bed to get ready for our Quito city walking tour the following day.
On Sunday morning, you’ll enjoy breakfast with your family, and you’ll get your first glimpse of the city and the beautiful Andes mountains as your family brings you to school and helps you get oriented. After answering all your questions that may have accumulated since your arrival, we’ll spend the morning discovering the historic Old Town and the touristy Mariscal area where our school is located, and learn about the history and people of Quito. This walking tour is breathtaking…mostly because Quito is at about 9000 ft! Although our guide, Cesar won’t break pace after living his whole life at altitude, the rest of us will take the extra time we need and enjoy the scenery on those cobble-stoned hills. After that, you’ll have the afternoon to enjoy with your host family, rest, or explore on your own.
So that’s a quick tour into your first 24-hours in Ecuador.
Monday morning begins our first day of class with the amazing teachers of Equinox and English for Life. You’ll love taking classes at Equinox Spanish School, but in addition to classes, you’ll have the opportunity to spend the afternoons and evenings exploring Quito. On the weekends we’ll travel out of town to visit a famous indigenous market, crater lakes, a town of hot springs and adventure (puenting, anyone?), and the Equator lines. Both of them. (Intrigued? You’ll have to come with us to see what I mean)
Here is a picture of my favorite people in all of Ecuador: the staff of Equinox Spanish School and Ecuador Volunteer. I can’t wait for you to meet them.
But the greatest things about your adventure to Ecuador?
The lifelong connections you’ll make with the generous people and the beautiful, varied land.
The challenge of getting shaken out of your normal routine when presented with a new city, a new language, and new insights on the world.
The delight of experiencing a new place moment by moment.
The whole world is waiting for you, and we hope you’ll start exploring it with us this summer.
For details on the summer 2013 Ecuador trip, go to http://www.english-forlife.com/language-classes/experience-spanish-2-week-immersion-trips-to-ecuador/ or contact me. We still have 4 openings available.
