Learn Spanish Under the Sun.....and Enjoy Carnival

  Colombia

Barranquilla

Description: Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia is a prestigious private higher education institution, one or the four universities in Colombia accredited institutionally by the Colombian Ministry of Education for its academic excellence. Being conscious of the tremendous importance of culture legacies in this increasingly multicultural world we are offering all those interested in learning about other people's cultural heritage as a way to interiorize diversity, the most agreeable environment to obtain a better understanding of the Spanish language and at the same time, immersed in an event where all differences are forgotten. The three-week Spanish course will allow you to have one of the most exciting experiences in your life. Starting on January 17th to February 4th.

Barranquilla, located on Colombian Caribbean Coast offers its best looks during the months of December, January and February due to two main facts: It is the time of the breeze and magnificent sunshine and the time of Carnival. At his time Barranquilla becomes the centre of all tourist, cultural and autochthonous activities in Colombia during the four weeks preceding Carnival. You will be part of it and at the same time will improve your use of Spanish within an enjoyable environment.

Barranquilla is also an intermediate path between the two most ancient colonial cities in Colombia: Cartagena and Santa Marta. Part of our outdoor activities includes fieldtrips to each of these cities, plus private arrangements for groups for longer stayings.

Enjoy being part of Carnival parades, learn to cook traditional food, learn how to dance folk music, travel to Cartagena and Santa Marta, meet new friends, live with a Colombian family, learn Spanish and enjoy our rich caribbean culture!

Highlights: The Language programs bring together people from different countries, and the participants have the opportunity to get involved in a cultural, academia and social exchange. Like wise, the program aims for students to acquire the command of a second language and to understand another culture in order to become protagonists in the development of the world.

The Institute offers different special courses, such as intensive Spanish for Foreigners program, which is developed for those who want to learn Spanish for academic, professional or social reasons.

Colombia is located in the Northwestern part of South America and has a population of approximately 32 million. It is the only South American country with coasts on both oceans: the Atlantic and the Pacific, and it borders with: Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador.

The Universidad del Norte, located in Barranquilla, is one of the most important higher educational institutions in Colombia. This industrial city is located on the Colombian Atlantic Coast and was founded in the XVII century by a group of migrant farmers.

With a population of more than two million inhabitants, Barranquilla is the fourth largest city of Colombia and as a result of its port status - both maritime and fluvial - this city has been a protagonist and a pioneer in many fields that have contributed to the development of the country. Aviation and radio have been among the most important contributions that have given Barranquilla an important position in the development of this South American country.

Barranquilla is also nationally and internationally known for its carnival - a magnificent artistic and cultural expression - which year after year takes place on its main streets.

Throughout the year, the ocean breeze offers the city a delicious tropical climate, with a short rainy season in April and a longer one in October. The temperature ranges between 27 and 32 degrees centigrade (80 and 90 F).

Daily Cost

Housing

Host Family (room, board and laundry)

* US$200 - US$250

Furnished apartment/Flat

* US$400 - US$500

Hotel

* US$40 - US$70

Food

* US$3 a meal

University Cafeteria

* US$5 a meal

Average Fast Food

* US$10 a meal

Restaurant

Transportation

* US$1 round trip

Buses

* US$1.25 short ride

Taxi

* US$4 average ride

Trip to Cartagena/ Santa Marta

Bus (incudes ride to the bus station)

* US$20 round trip

Taxi (house to house)

* US$20 round trip

Hotel

* US$35 - US$80

Furnished apartment/Flat

* US$40 - US$75

Average Fast Food

* US$11 a meal

General Expenses

* US$100 - US$200

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to Colombia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Instituto de Idiomas-Universidad Del Norte's Mission Statement: The Universidad del Norte Foundation, according to the guiding principles and aims established on its creation, has as its mission the well-rounded education of our students at higher educational level and the contribution to the harmonious development of society and the country, especially the Colombian Atlantic Coast, through its institutional presence in the community.

Year Founded: 1966