The comprehensive package includes lodging in a private studio apartment, Spanish lessons, conversation opportunities and cultural and artistic opportunities

(TRAVPR.COM) ARGENTINA - 28th April 2010 - The Mendoza Intercultural Association (MIA) announces a “Spanish for Grownups” package tailored to people who have time and resources to travel, but want to do something interesting and productive when they do.

“ ’Spanish for Grownups’ is a unique program that offers a winning combination of study, practice, cultural immersion and access to world-class scenery, wine and food,” said MIA President Ellen Hoffman. “It’s the perfect option for retirees or other adults who want to learn Spanish at a relaxed pace in an interesting place with comfortable accommodations,” she said.

For the introductory August session, MIA is offering a 50% discount to the first six applicants. The price is $425.00 US per person per week (double occupancy, two week minimum). For details of the offer and the program, visit: http://www.mdz-intercultural.org/events/spanish_eng.html .

The package includes:
• Three hours of instruction per day, Monday through Friday
• Lodging in a studio apartment with private bath and kitchenette and access to a garden, terrace with grape arbor, and barbeque
• Breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday
• Maid service every other day
• One special cultural or artistic activity per week
• On request, arrangement of activities or excursions such as visits to wineries or the Andes Mountains (additional cost)

The program allows for weekends off, so participants can practice what they’ve learned, immerse themselves in the local culture, or visit wineries, the Andes mountains and other local tourist attractions.

The program employs an innovative teaching method devised by Riccardo Accurso, MIA vice president, based on his experience teaching language in Spain, as well as living in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries.

Riccardo also uses insights gained from a PhD program in psycholinguistics at the University of Illinois. Thus, the method of instruction stresses the dynamic interactions (psychological components) underlying communications, and the importance of cultural context in learning to speak a foreign language.

The main teacher is a bilingual (Spanish and English) local resident who directs a language program in a private school in Mendoza. Students will also have opportunities to converse with native Spanish-speaking staff and in special events with other Mendoza residents.

“ This is an unusual program and a wonderful opportunity to participate at half price. Interested parties should apply without delay, since the discount will only be available to the first six persons who sign up for the August program,” Hoffman said.

Later programs will be available at the normal price.

MIA is a non-profit association whose purpose is intercultural exchange between natives of Mendoza and residents and visitors from other cultures.
For more information about MIA, visit http://www.mdz-intercultural.org or call 304 876 2243 in the U.S.

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