Dos Mundos - Study Spanish in Flores, Guatemala
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions about:
Do you issue certificates or diplomas?
We issue certificates that specify the number of weeks and hours studied as well as the level obtained during the Spanish course. Students may use this certificate when applying for employment in Latin America or their home country.
Do the teachers speak English or only Spanish?
All our teachers are native Spanish speakers and most speak very little English. All of our classes are taught in Spanish.
What languages does the school staff speak?
Our staff speaks Spanish, English, German and French.
Where do the majority of students come from?
Our students come from all over the world including the United States, Canada, France, Germany, and Switzerland.
Is the school open on holidays? When is the school closed?
Please check the holiday schedule below in our School/Courses section.
What textbooks do teachers use?
Our experienced teachers have developed a set of textbooks that they use during classes. These suit the level and interest of each individual student.
Do you offer leisure time activities in the afternoons after classes?
We offer several activities in and around Flores such as zoo visits, salsa classes and trips to Tikal. For more information, consult the Activities section on our web site.
Students may begin classes on any day of the week except for Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Although most students choose to arrive on the weekend and begin lessons on Monday, we also welcome midweek arrivals. Classes usually run between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily.
What is the average length of study?
Our students enjoy a study plan designed around their schedule and structured according to their specific learning needs. Typically, our students study between four and six hours a day, Monday through Friday. Most students stay for one to four weeks. However, the number of lessons and length of study is entirely up to each individual student.
Do teachers assign homework?
Yes, teachers assign daily exercises to be completed outside of the classroom to help students solidify their knowledge and improve their abilities. However, all of the assignments are optional.
What do teachers focus on in the lessons?
Our teachers concentrate on the four main language skills - reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Since most courses are one-on-one, our teachers have the ability to shape the class topics based on each student’s individual abilities.
What kind of lodging do you offer?
We offer several lodging options. Please refer to the School/Accommodation section for more information.
Do the host families have children?
Some of our host families have children, and some families do not. Upon request, we can arrange lodging with or without children.
Is it safe to stay with a host family?
Yes, we carefully choose our host families and consistently frequent the houses to ensure comfort, cleanliness, safety, and compatibility.
How many students stay in a house?
Normally, one student stays in a house. However, upon request, we can assign more than one student per house.
What type of currency do Guatemalans use?
The national currency is the Quetzal (Q).
Can I also pay with other currencies?
Yes, most touristy places - hotels, restaurants, attractions - accept US dollars. Visitors can change Euros, but at a very low exchange rate.
Should I bring cash, traveler's checks or a credit card?
There is local bankomat (ATM) in Flores where visitors may withdraw money. Visitors may also redeem traveler's checks at the bank in Flores or in Santa Elena. Please note that Maestro cards are not accepted. We advise our students to avoid traveling with excessive amounts of money.
Do you accept credit cards at the school?
No, unfortunately we do not accept any credit cards.
Is there a registration fee?
Yes, please refer to our School/Prices section.
What does the price include?
As discussed on the School/Prices page, the price includes a placement test, a Spanish course (as booked), accommodation, educational material and a certificate.
Do I need to pay in advance for my Spanish course?
After checking the details of your reservation, we will ask for a 20% deposit paid via paypal. You may pay with a credit card.
For short stays, we suggest the standard vaccinations (hepatitis A+B, tetanus, measles, diphtheria). For longer stays, we ask our students to consult their family practitioners.
Do I need anti-malaria pills?
No, there is no need for anti-malaria pills. We suggest saving your money and buying good bug spray at home or in Guatemala instead.
Do I need to bring other medications?
We advise our students to bring anti-diarrhea medicine. Usually, diarrhea is the worst ailment that visitors can expect during their time in Guatemala. (The possibility of an upset stomach or bout of diarrhea should not prevent you from exploring this beautiful country!)
What kind of food do restaurants and homes offer in Guatemala?
Guatemalans love corn-based tortillas, rice, refried beans, scrambled eggs and chicken. However, in touristy places like Flores, visitors will find large selections of international foods as well.
Can I drink water from the tap?
No, visitors may use tap water for showering and brushing teeth, but should boil their water before using it for cooking or drinking. Most travelers choose to buy bottled water for drinking.
What is the tipping policy in Guatemala?
Most restaurants expect a 10% tip. Due to low salaries in the hotel and restaurant industries, this is appropriate and appreciated.
There are two seasons in Guatemala: summer and the rainy season (May to October). During the rainy season, visitors can expect short, heavy showers in the afternoon but clear skies and sun during the early morning and evening. The climate is warm and humid year-round.
What are the temperatures like in Flores?
Temperatures in Flores usually fluctuate between 25-35°C (77-95°F).
What clothes should I bring?
We tell our students to bring light summer clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and swimsuits. During the evenings or while traveling in the highlands, temperatures may be drop slightly, so it might be a good idea to bring a light jacket. We also suggest bringing a good pair of walking shoes as well as long pants and shirts for jungle tours.
Citizens from Europe, Asia, the United States, and Canada do not need to buy visas. A valid passport (for at least 6 months) warrants a free ninety-day tourist visa upon entering the country. Travelers may extend this visa for another ninety days by leaving Guatemala (and traveling to Belize, for example) and returning.
In what time zone is Guatemala?
Guatemala is in GMT -6. There is no time change in Guatemala.
Is Flores safe?
Yes, Flores is a large tourist destination and very peaceful island renowned for its safety. However, as is always the case when traveling to a foreign country, the "common sense rule" applies: always travel with someone, stay alert, do not travel to remote places at night, do not wear expensive jewelry, and do not act rudely or arrogantly.
What else can I visit in Guatemala?
Please refer to our traveling section to learn more about traveling in this fascinating country. We arrange weekend trips for students during their time at our school but encourage them to explore the country on their own after leaving Flores.
What is the country code in Guatemala?
The country code is +502.
How can I phone my family and friends back home?
Most internet cafes in Flores offer international phone service (as well as headphones for Skype). Furthermore, even if very rural parts of the country, travelers will find "teléfonos comunitarios" (community phones) to make international calls. Please note that most foreign cell phones do not work in Guatemala without a Guatemalan SIM-card, which are available for purchase in most major stores in Guatemala.
Do you offer volunteer programs?
Yes, please visit the Volunteering portion of our web site for more information.
Is Guatemala safe for female travelers?
Many female students between the ages of eighteen and sixty have attended our school without any reported problems. We, once again, emphasize the "common sense rule."
Is it possible to speak with Dos Mundos alumnae?
Yes, we are happy to provide references and e-mail addresses of former students. Please read the Feedback section of our web site.
What happens if I get sick?
In case of illness, we will reschedule the remainder of your classes accordingly. Guatemala boasts a sophisticated medical care system and skilled health professionals throughout the country.
How do I make my reservation?
To make a reservation, please click on the Contact/Booking form and fill in the required information or just send an email to info@flores-spanish.com. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.
If you do not find your question here, contact us!