When looking to learn a new language overseas, most people tend to go straight for the more well known destinations, London, New York, Barcelona, Paris… just to name a few.
Okay these cities are amazing, but what if we could tell you there are so many alternative locations, which are just as incredible and also much cheaper?
If you are open minded and fancy going a little left field this year we’ve rounded up some of our top most unconventional study abroad hotspots.
1. Cuba
Fancy yourself an adventurer? Then you’ve come to the right place! Book a Spanish course in Cuba and experience this magical island for yourself.
Weather:
Visiting Cuba shouldn’t just be a summer thing as the weather is warm and sunny all year round! But if you’re scared of a bit of rain stick to November and April.
Must do activity:
Hit the waves. Sailing through the beautiful islands of Canarreos Archipelago you’ll spot flamingos, parrots and some pretty spectacular fish. And then you get to eat them. Fabulous.*
Anything else I should know?
If you’re a vintage car buff Cuba really is your heaven. Oldsmobiles (yep, real name), Studebakers and Chevrolets abound in the crowded streets.
2. Granada, Spain
When people are keen to study Spanish, they automatically get drawn to the big famous destinations like Madrid, Ibiza and Valencia. But travel to the south of Spain and book a course in Granada and you won’t regret it.
Weather:
Sum almost all year round.
Must do activity:
Take a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Alhambra.
Anything else I should know?
Be sure to explore more of the region, popular destinations to see include Seville, Cadiz and Cordoba.
3. Mexico City
Cancun and the Mexican Riviera may get all the headlines for studying Spanish in Mexico, but you don’t get this cultural experience within the walls of a resort.
Weather:
Sun. Sun. Sun!
Must do activity:
Travel back in time with a visit to the Templo Mayor, a significant religious site dating back to the Aztecs located in downtown Mexico City. Top off this cultural extravaganza at the nearby museum which holds an impressive collection of Aztec artefacts.
Anything else I should know?
Wander down to the city centre and experience the true Mexican lifestyle at the vibrant Xochimilco market.
4. Costa Rica
If you want to learn or improve your Spanish and are keen for a culture adventure like no other, why not catch some waves in Costa Rica? This country is beautiful with so many activities, from volcanoes, beaches, islands and so much more. View our guide to studying in Costa Rica.
Weather:
Costa Rica is close to the equator and as a result the coast is hot all year round. Don’t worry though, if it all gets a bit much for you the cloud forests are beautifully cool. And beautiful.
Must do activity:
Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is located 82 miles from the country’s capital and a great chance to spot a squirrel monkey. Which should be added to you list of lifelong ambitions if its not already. For the more active amongst you, volcano climbing is de rigueur in the region and the Arenal Volcano is a great place to start.
Anything else I should know?
Make sure you wake up to the sweet smell and even better taste of Costa Rica’s world famous coffee before you set off on your daily adventures.
5. Marrakech, Morocco
Keen to study Arabic? Book a language course in Morocco! If you thought you’d seen it all think again. Jemaa el Fna, the main square in Marrakesh, is packed with story tellers, diviners, snake charmers, food stalls, orange juice sellers, henna tattooists, street artists and more. It can be a little overwhelming, and a bit of a tourist trap if you don’t keep your wits about you, but it’s well worth it for the atmosphere alone.
Weather:
The climate in Marrakech varies, summer is boiling but winter has the odd chilly night during and highs of around 18 degrees in the day. In short bring a jacket, but not a thick one.
Must do activity:
Marrakech is known for its bustling souks and markets filled with trinket sellers and the smells of traditional cuisine. Walk through a labyrinth of winding Medina alleys for a brilliant shopping experience.
Anything else I should know?
About 150k north of the city are the Ouzoud Falls, well worth a trip out of the city and a nice break from the bustling streets.
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
Yeah…we know what you’re probably thinking, isn’t it best to study English in England? But if you do, you won’t get to experience the natural beauty of the charm of Scotland’s capital city or see the breathtaking highlands.
Weather:
Sun? Perhaps not so much, but you’re guaranteed an authentic cold British weather all year round!
Must do activity:
Winter festivals, picturesque castles, long walks across scenic desolate beaches or munching on a deep fried Mars bar, whatever it is that tickles your fancy, Scotland is sure to have it. You can even catch the spectacular Northern Lights in the…well…the north. Obvs.
Anything else I should know?
Experience New Years like never before at Hogmanay celebrations. There’s everything from awesome street parties to winter attractions at various city centres…and of course, fireworks!
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