Guatemala365 - A Survey of Spanish Schools - Learn Spanish in Guatemala

La Democracia Spanish School

La Democracia Spanish School
9 Calle 15-05 Zona 3
Quetzaltenango
(+502)-7767-0013

Registration $ 30
Write to the school

Rank

92%

Prices

175 USD for 25 hours per week including host family
110 USD for 25 hours per week without host family
Study one hour daily more or less: add or subtract about USD 15 per week.

School Size

2 – 12 students

Openings

It is recommendable to enroll at least with two weeks in advance, since this is a small school and it tends to fill up any given time!

Summary

La Democracia is a small school (founded in 2003), located in a quiet part of Quetzaltenango, housed in an A-shaped two story family house. Teachers are young and well trained by the director, Flory, herself. The school has produced extensive study material. Teachers establish weekly plans for each student. These plans are used as documents if you need to obtain university credits. Flory has a long history of training teachers for other schools. The school has good equipment.
Flory also helps you to plan your trips around Guatemala doing reservations etc. and giving sound advice. You will be in good hands.
La Democracia is very engaged in teaching English to local children and giving them grants.
Total immersion in La Democracia is excellent, because you are off the beaten track of other tourists. This school is very recommended.
The following holidays are observed at this school: September 15th, November 1st, December 25th, January 1st and Holy Friday (no lessons on these days).

Registration

Secure Enroll
$ 30 per student.

La Democracia Spanish School is a small school with experienced teachers and may fill up any given time. During high season (end and beginning of the year, Holy Week and summer), the director recommends future students to enroll at least two weeks in advance to secure a spot in school.

Need more information?
Write to the school!

With a timely registration, the school can assign you the best teacher from its list. (Contact us for group discounts).

Photo Gallery of La Democracia Spanish School (click here)

La Democracia Spanish School - Details

Teachers

The school′s 10 young teachers, have an average of 5 years of experience and have undergone a good formal training by the director, who has over 12 years experience teaching Spanish. Some are attending University and are working to help themselves to pay for their studies.
See details for recommended instructors! [Show Details]

Methods

One on one teaching. New students are evaluated in an informal 25 minute talk with the teacher. After this, a teaching plan is designed. The school has its own curriculum, study books and work sheets. The director and teachers elaborate a weekly plan for each student. These plans are used as documents if you need to obtain university credits. In about twelve weeks you learn all Spanish grammar and become fluent. In your twelfth you can pick a theme for your thesis. Emma Chung-Ming Tai wrote about the exploitation of Hispanic migrants in the US. After her studies in Guatemala she was elevated from second to sixth level at her home University.

Materials

The school has its own curriculum, study books and work sheets. Study materials are well done: clearly written and easy to understand. The school has also vocabulary cards and beginners cards. There is a small library and a small video library ad good video equipment.
Internet is also available to students.

Special Programs

The school has a sound and recommendable program for children. For students with small children (3-5), there are couple of teachers that can take care of them, while the parents take Spanish lessons. For babies (1-2 years), they can be placed with a responsible family that will take special care of them. Children from 6 and older will take Spanish lessons at a discounted rate. [Show Details]

Location

A small school in a quiet part of Quetzaltenango housed in an A-shaped two story family house with a small garden around it. A well equipped kitchen and free internet (3 PC´s). [Show Details]

Activities

Free: go to a Spanish movie theater in town, listen to folk music. Lectures on anthropology and economy. Visits to Indian villages. Guitar and marimba concerts. Free Salsa lessons. On Fridays you learn how to prepare local food in the school. [Show Details]

Host Families

Families have been carefully chosen and trained from a big supply: the school is located in a residential quarter and there are no other Spanish schools near.
Recommended host families: Rosie II (basic accommodations), Anna-Maria and Nery, Otoniel and Teresa Perez family, Corrie, Marlon and Betzabé Hurtado family.

Volunteering

Students give English classes to a group of local children during afternoons. This takes place in school and is a very worthwhile activity. Volunteers also get a weekly discount on tuition at this school! [Show Details]

Airport Pick-Up Service

Upon request, the director can give you information on a trusted hostel in Guatemala City that provides, airport pick up.

How to get there How get there

Send yourself an e-mail with information on how to get to La Democracia Spanish School.

The school is five blocks north of "Parque Benito Juarez" in Zone 3; about 15 blocks from the centre of Quetzaltenango.

Students' Feedback
Michael Godfrey mikegfrey@gmail.com 09 / 2009	Hi, I decided to attend La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango (Xela). I studied for 2 weeks there. I had 4 instructors, one was called José, and he was the best, the others were fine. Study materials were adequate. My Spanish improved, since I was a beginner. After school activities were good, went on a bike ride and taught some English to kids. My family was fine, friendly and good food, the father was called Marlon. I would recommend the school, even though it´s a little more expensive than some others. Thanks, Michael.
Katie Fizzell katiefizzell@hotmail.com 08 / 2009	Hello, I attended La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I was impressed with the detail and promptness of the director′s email responses prior to choosing a school; she does a great job of creating a family like atmosphere in the school, making all of the students feel welcome and cared for during their time in Guatemala. I studied for 4 weeks there. My instructor′s name was Sindy - she had all of her own notes and plans for our studies and I was so happy with her, that I studied with her for the entire four weeks. She was really adaptable to my needs from day-to-day and could easily switch between formal lessons and casual conversation, which was just what I needed. The school does not have a lot of study resources (i.e. they don′t have a big ′library′) but the resources they did have, such as practice exercises and their own lesson plans were sufficient. My teacher also did a great job of bringing in poems and short stories for us to read. I brought a few of my own books too, so there was no problem with resources. There were always lots of activities to do - every weekend and usually 2 afternoons per week. Their trip organizer is fantastic - always speaks in Spanish, but can translate when necessary and, because the school is so small, he was able to plan trips based on our requests, which was a real bonus. A lot of us, especially liked the mountain bike rides and hikes. I stayed with the family of Anna-Maria and Nery (I don′t remember their last names) and they were AMAZING! I had a very comfortable living situation, was fed great meals, and always had someone to practice my Spanish with. At the same time, I felt comfortable enough to do my own thing, and they encouraged me to spend time in town etc. I would definitely recommend the school! Best regards, Katie.
Gary Phillpott grphillpott@yahoo.co.uk 07 / 2009	I also attended La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for 3 weeks at this school. The instructor, Libia was very good at La Democracia. Study resources at both schools were more than adequate. After school activities were brilliant at this school. The host families were very good in both Xela and Antigua. I will and have recommended both of these schools. Thanks again for your recommendation. Sincerely, Gary Phillpott.
Brienne Thomson raceher_b@yahoo.com 07 / 2009	I attended La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango as well. The school is located in a quiet residential area in a converted house. They had coffee and tea and computers available to check e-mail. The first teacher I received, Marvin, was unprepared. Day 1 was a slow process of him trying to figure out my level and trying to think of what exercises to work on. I gave him one more day because I thought he might have needed time to prepare, but I was wrong. I directed our activities on the second day and then changed teachers to Ruth Galicia, who was excellent! She trained with the school’s director, Flory, and literally wrote her own 200 page book on lessons and exercises. Although, I was at the school for just a week, and thus had Ruth for just 3 days, they were very productive. Ruth is highly recommended. The school also had activities that were mainly organized through a very nice and interactive guide, Martin, who took us the ′Fuentes Georginas′ hot springs and on a tour of cathedrals and to a place that makes ′Caldo de Frutas′, a potent sangria-like drink. La Democracia is however in zone 3 of Quetzaltenango, which is a good walk from the centre in zone 1, where most of the restaurants, markets, bookshops and cafes were. I didn’t mind the walk, but unless you were with a group, it was recommended to take a cab home at night for safety. I stayed with Flor de Maria and Eduardo who are a sweet older couple. My room was lovely too. However, in zone 3 the water gets shut off at about 3:00. The house had a water tank but not enough for an evening shower, which prevented me from joining the nightly soccer game through the school. I would have requested a house that didn’t have a shower constraint if I had known. Gracias, Brienne Thomson. San Diego, CA.
Lottie Kingslake lottie-k@hotmail.co.uk 07 / 2009	Hello, I studied at La Democracia Spanish School in Xela for 5 weeks and really loved it. I had 4 different teachers, Sindy, Ana Luce, Ruth and Enid; they were all really good and friendly. I think, it worked well for me because almost all were studying at a university, so they were a similar age to me, and we got on well. Each, seemed to have a different set of books and materials that they had sometimes prepared themselves but the structure of the week with each teacher seemed pretty much the same. My spanish improved loads over the 5 weeks and I was definitely happy with my improvement. If I remember correctly, the whole course that they run through is 8 weeks long for all the grammar from the beginning, so it depends where you begin to how far you get. The school activities were a great chance to get out of the town and get to know the people in your school, especially if you′re on your own when you arrive. Although, all the activities were in the afternoon so you missed out if your lessons were in the afternoon too. They had a good variety of weekend trips as well, to Lago Atitlan and Chichicastenango. A good mixture of active hiking and cycling and cultural trips to villages in the area. Flory, the coordinator was great and always got a piñata for the break time whenever it was someone′s birthday which made it seem really cosy and friendly. I liked how small the school was, it meant that you got to know the other students well. Also it seemed most of the students stayed for at least 3 weeks which again meant you had time to get to know people. My host family was lovely. The mom was called Leslie and she had two young daughters, Abi and Nathali. Leslie couldn′t have been more friendly despite being quite busy. I think the time I most improved in my spanish was chatting to Leslie after school. It′s definitely good practice talking to someone other than a spanish teacher who may be used to your mistakes. I would definitely, recommend the school. For me, it being out of town was a good thing because you never bumped into any non-Guatemalans unless they were at the school and it was good for your spanish. Although, it meant you had to walk back from town in the dark which is fine in a group. The majority of the students there, spoke spanish whenever they were in the school, which really helped me, especially when starting off because it forces you to try. I really enjoyed it at the school and Xela is a lovely place. I plan to return whenever I can. I found out your website... helpful to be able to read peoples comments about the schools, and it was the main reason I chose La Democracia. I hope that is useful to you. Kind regards, Lottie Kingslake.
James Frew jsafrew@hotmail.com 07 / 2009	Hi, I went to La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I thought, it was an excellent school, very well run and professional. I was taught by several different teachers but I thought they were all very good, and the study materials were fine. I studied for 2 months, and lived with a host family who were also very nice. The after school activities were also excellent. Thanks, James.
Cory Nelson cory.nelson4@gmail.com. 06 / 2009	Hello, I studied at La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for six weeks there. During my time there, I had 4 instructors; Ana Luz, Edna DeVacki, Yesika, and Alex. They all had different methods of teaching and the all typically served me well. If I had to pick the best it would have been Yesika when I began learning the subjunctive, she was very knowledgeable and had great conversational exercises that aided me in my understanding of this tense. All of the study resources, are provided by the school or the teachers. There are no workbooks or anything like that, though, you may get some photocopied handouts every once in a while. I mainly took notes from the teacher and then for homework used what I knew (or though I knew) to write stories and sentences then we would correct my mistakes, so that I would understand better the grammar and vocabulary. For after school activities, they had everything from bike riding, to salsa dancing, to the standard day trips to the ′Fuentes Georginas′ and other near by ′pueblos′. We also took trips to Panajachel and Lake Atitlan. The students are also free to organize their own trips. I went with some fellow classmates to Antigua to climb the Pacaya volcano and see the lava. Other students, planed trips to Monterrico or Tajumulco. If you do, want to do something like that, the school will help you out as much, as they can. I ended up staying with Cory, who was great. The only thing I didn′t like, was that the ′pensionistas′ were all very quiet, which made it difficult to practice my spanish. But, after I got more confident we would watch TV and discuss fútbol and ′El gran defile de las estrellas′. I would definitely recommend the school. After 6 weeks, I felt as though I had a family there and I plan on going back as soon as I have time. I hope this helps, Cory Nelson.
Catherine Orr h.catherine.orr@gmail.com 06 / 2009	I also attended La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for three weeks at there. My instructors were good. I had two teachers, the first was fine and I stayed with him for two weeks but then I switched to Libia who was phenomenal. Libia really pushes you to the next level, challenging you to read about and discuss subjects beyond your normal vocabulary and providing creative at-home exercises. I wish, I had had more time with her! Study resources at the school were fine. La Democracia offered one mid-week after school field trip, usually led by Martin, a fantastic guide and former Spanish teacher who is constantly teaching you. There were also, weekly salsa classes, soccer games, and dinners. This school, also organizes weekend trips to areas around Xela and throughout Guatemala. The best part of the activities sponsored by La Democracia is that the teachers, all of whom are college-aged, attend the activities too, so you′re constantly surrounded by local Spanish speakers who become your friends, as well as your teachers. In Xela, I stayed with Betzabé and Marlon and their small children Alicia and Daniel. I felt like a part of their family, playing with the kids every day, eating every meal with the family, and even befriending members of the extended family. I could not have asked for a better situation and I miss Betzabé, Alicia, and Daniel terribly. I would absolutely recommend the school, 100 percent. My time in Guatemala was wonderful (but too fast), and the schools I attended were both great. Thanks to Guatemala365 for helping me find them! If anyone has specific questions for a former student you′re welcome to give him/her my email address. Sincerely, Catherine.
Brooke Magid Hart hart@usfamily.net 06 / 2009	Hello, I just completed 3 weeks of studying at, La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango, and then 2 weeks more of travel in Guatemala. La Democracia is smaller than most of the schools, with a limit of only 10 students in the morning and 10 others in the afternoon. The director, Flory is wonderful, and runs the school as though all of the teachers (university students, in general) and all of the students are family. The school is located in Zona 3, which makes it a 20 minute walk from the Parque Central; close enough to get there everyday, but in a quieter neighbourhood where you don′t ever see other non-Guatemalans outside of the school itself. For the most part, home stays are close to the school, and all are within walking distance. Flory plans a calendar for the month, which includes all sorts of extra activities, from free salsa dancing lessons, to informal conferences on Guatemalan history and society, to trips to local sights and sights around Guatemala. She is open to planning activities requested by the students, and works with a local guide to provide trips at discounted prices. Flory provides opportunities for students to volunteer, teaching English to neighbourhood kids who come to La Democracia because they can′t afford private lessons (they don′t pay for lessons provided by student volunteers), or working at a local school or orphanage. While, there for 3 weeks, I also took back strap weaving lessons from an indigenous friend of Flory, who comes to the school to teach weaving to interested students, for a small fee paid directly to the weaving instructor. But the best part of this school is the teachers. My teacher was Libia, and after a couple of days with her, I asked if she could be my teacher for all 3 weeks. I know the others were excellent teachers, too, but the two of us clicked (though I am old enough to be her mother!), and I learned so much from her. Everyday, Libia and I would talk about politics, history, social issues, and life in Guatemala, and through our conversations, I was not only enlightened about the country in which I was studying, but I improved my Spanish as well. This school, and my teacher in particular, provided me with the experience that I was seeking when I began to research schools; the opportunity to study Spanish in a part of Guatemala that is not teeming with gringos, where I could speak, read, write, think and dream in only Spanish for my entire stay; where I would feel safe, and where I would have opportunities to explore and make the most of my limited time. I highly recommend this school to others. I used www.guatemala365.com to search for a Spanish school, and am so happy with the one that I chose. Best, Brooke Magid Hart.
Miriam Jeschke miriam.jeschke@web.de 03 / 2009	Hello, I decided to go to La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I studied for 5 weeks and another week two months later, even though I planned to attend several schools during my time there, I ended up staying all the time at this school. It′s such a great school and the director is doing a fabulous job, she is so supportive and takes good care of both students and teachers as well as offering a great programme. I got an excellent instructor and stayed with him all the time because we worked so well together and I improved a lot. His name is Marvin Loarca. Study resources were good, especially for beginners. They have all kinds of picture books for beginners and advanced grammar books with lots of exercises that we used occasionally. Since I was intermediate, we worked more with the black board, literature like books and newspapers and mostly just talked a lot and then practiced my weak points. My teacher had a great method to explain words in spanish and made me train my understanding and speaking skills a lot by giving me exercises to present topics, etc. The school offers routine activities like conferences, salsa lessons and trips every day except for Mondays and lots of extra activities whenever anything special like concerts or exhibitions come up. In the weekends, students can optionally go on several trips that the school helps to organize. The teachers are very open and take parts in the activities which is great. They even took me to a soccer game during the weekend and every Friday there is a dinner with all the students and teachers which I think is a really good thing to interact. My host family was extremely friendly and warm, they treated me like part of the family and cared for me in a very nice way. The food was great and they were really flexible with my plans and likings, so I felt very good there. The husband`s name is Marlon Hurtado and his wife′s name is Betzabé who is a great cook. I would definitely recommend the school! I just loved it there because it has more of a family feeling, and everybody is very dedicated to their work and to providing the best options to the students. I got to know so many friendly people and enjoyed it a lot, that the teachers were so accessible. I also liked that they support a social project, offer volunteering options and pay their teachers and host families fair. It was a great experience and I am really glad to having picked that school and having met all those great people. Thanks for offering all that information on your web page. It helped me a lot! All the best to you and your work! I will definitely be back to beautiful Guatemala and La Democracia soon! Miriam Jeschke.
Andrew Menees asmenees@gmail.com 03 / 2009	Hello, I decided to attend, La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for a total of 8 weeks there. I received an excellent instructor and after my first week and a half, I asked to keep him for the balance of my studies, his name is Byron Koeppler. My instructor was highly skilled at recognizing my specific needs and creating a course of study, utilizing a select few of the many available books at the school. There were a variety of activities available from which to choose, and the director was always willing to make arrangements for personal excursions. My host family was excellent. My house mother provided a great variety in the meals (I don′t think we had the same main meal more than twice over the eight weeks I was there) and was always concerned that I have any need met. My house mother was Miriam Giron. I would very highly recommend La Democracia. It was exactly what I was looking for - a small school with exceptional teaching quality, personal attention, a variety of activities from which to choose, volunteer projects and located in an area away from tourists. Thank you very much for the services of your website. I found them to be tremendously helpful in making my selection of a Spanish school and I feel your descriptions gave an appropriate picture of the school in which I studied. Sincerely, Andrew Menees.
Denise Baldwin orangejumper@gmail.com 11 / 2008	Hi, we went to La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. We studied for 4 weeks there. I had 2 excellent teachers, Jessica and Lybia. The host family was extremely warm and friendly and cooked excellent meals. The host mom`s name was Corrie. I would definitely recommend the school as it was a smaller family run setup and you felt like you were very well looked after. All the best, Denise.
Anthony Ratto anthony.ratto@gmail.com 10 / 2008	Hello, I went to Escuela de Español La Democracia in Xela. I ended up studying Spanish for 10 weeks in this school and then spent 3 weeks in Nicaragua. I had plenty of great teachers. We would switch about every two weeks to work with a new teacher. I think this was valuable because I had to listen to different accents and was exposed to different teaching methods and personalities. My favourite teachers and the ones who I got the best experience were, Yesika, Libia and Cindy. The other teachers I had were also very good and professional. I lived with the sister of Flory (owner of the school), Rosie, whom actually, runs a small pension where there are about 8 rooms used to house both foreign students as well as Guatemaltecos who come to Xela for Colegio (college). It was a good experience to be around so many young people and made it very easy and necessary to practice Spanish. I would definitely recommend this school. I didn′t expect to receive the individual attention that I got both inside the school and outside during everyday life. It′s a family run business and they build genuine relationships with their students. I left my family here in Ca, but was immediately accepted and encouraged to become part of the La Democracia family in Xela. The teachers were all very good, as well as my host family and those of my friends. We had fun during school hours but were also together for dinners, soccer, field trips and even beers. When I go back to Guatemala I will definitely be attending La Democracia again. The personal relationships that I was encouraged to build will last me a life time. I hope my info will help you or future students. Gracias por todo y que vaya bien, Anthony Ratto.
Eric Carney eric2740@bellsouth.net 09 / 2008	I attended the La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango and it was wonderful. I used my vacation to travel to Guatemala and visited friends in Xela who hosted me. I studied for 1 week due to my short stay in Guate. My teacher was Carlos, he was wonderful and an excellent teacher, my Spanish skills were very limited and I had virtually no understanding of the Spanish language. Carlos, was able to increase my ability to not only converse, but to comprehend, read and write. Because I gained so much new ability I have signed up for more classes here in my home town, so I will be able to continue to learn. The director Flory was wonderful, she answered any question I had and was so much fun to be around. I highly recommend this school, and in the future if am able to return will only consider this school for future studies. Thanks, Eric Carney.
Rachael Beeck rachael_beeck@yahoo.com 08 / 2008	We decided to attend La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. We studied for 5 weeks there. We had several good teachers changing each week, Jose, Cindy, etc. Our host family was fantastic! Otoniel and Teresa Perez, they are our second family now. I would highly recommend the school. Thanks, Rachael.
Burns And Raquel Thompson thompsr5@staff.ednet.ns.ca 07 / 2008	We decided to attend La Democracia Spanish school in Quetzaltenango. I would recommend the school; however, it is important to specify with the administration what your level of Spanish is to ensure that you are paired with the appropriate teacher. Thanks, Burns.
Kaitlin Masarie kate_masarie@yahoo.com 06 / 2008	Hello, I decided to go to La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for 2 weeks there. My teacher was good. Study materials were pretty good, but varied from teacher to teacher. I really liked the medical Spanish workbook, though. My host family was alright. I think there should be one American student max. I did not like having more than one because it was hard not to talk in English. I give the school a B. A little far from Parque Central. Thanks, Kate.
Nancy Cuervo 06 / 2008	Hello, My husband and I attended two schools in Xela. First we went to La Democracia Spanish School. We studied there for one week. The experience of each school was different. My teacher at this school was sort of good, she was very sweet but young and inexperienced. She had a notebook of lessons that she′d just repeat to me and then have me write down but would never use the lessons in conversation past that. It was just present lesson, write lesson, and chat about nothing, repeat. My grammar improved very little. Study materials were basic, besides her notebook of hand-written lessons, some in weird neon colours that were hard to read, she had a few vocabulary picture charts and some Xeroxed essays that she′d drop in here and there. She never tried to assess my level of Spanish and adapt her lesson plans accordingly. She pretty much had me start at the alphabet. I was brought up in a bilingual household so my Spanish is rusty and the grammar is off but I don′t think it warranted the alphabet recital. The host family really made this week good. They were wonderfully generous with their time, the food was excellent and we exchanged many dishes, recipes, cooking styles, laughs, stories with them. If we could have, we would have gone to a different school but stayed with them. Thanks, Nancy.
Eric Appleton 06 / 2008	We also attended La Democracia Spanish School also in Xela. We studied there for one week. My teacher was very friendly, but not very skilled. She had little to no experience and very little training. Study materials were not so great. My teacher had a notebook with various forms and vocabulary, but didn′t really have a curriculum. The school did not seem to have much going on as far as social projects, but the teachers and staff were very nice. There were activities for students that were interesting. We went to a market in the mountains and the school organized a trip to Lago Atitlan one weekend. Because the school is outside the center, the immersion in Spanish is more real. The neighbourhood is more authentic, but with less amenities and farther out from evening activities, markets, etc. Our host family was wonderful. We loved the family and spent lots of time with them cooking, chatting and hanging out. We visited them even after we left the school. This school has its good and bad points; but, it is a good school overall. Thanks, Eric.
David & Catherine MacHale Chambers medeasc@gmail.com 06 / 2008	Four of us, David, Cathy, Sarah and Mary-Kate studied in La Democracia Spanish School in Xela (Quetzaltenango) for six weeks. From the moment we arrived in Xela and were met at the bus station by Flory we felt at home in Xela, welcomed both in the school and by our host families. Our teachers were excellent and very professional and adapted to suit our interests and learning styles. Study materials were excellent, each of us used different materials based on our own interests and level of Spanish. The atmosphere in the school, amongst the teachers and students alike, was excellent. Flory was at all times very supportive of us. We enjoyed some excellent activities and Flory always helped out when we planned activities of our own. We were delighted with the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Spanish in such a friendly and supportive environment. Practicing speaking Spanish was not only easy in this school it was fun. We were very pleased with the level of Spanish we achieved in so short a time. Our host families were really friendly and welcoming and very willing to speak Spanish to us throughout our stay. If anyone would like to contact us for further information, please feel free. We highly recommend this school. Finally we would like to thank you for all your help in choosing a school. The Guatemala 365 site was invaluable. Thank you, Sarah.
Jonathan Craker jrcraker@uwm.edu 05 / 2008	Hi, I studied at La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied a total of 5 weeks. I had three teachers in total, all were willing to work hard to help me understand the material, but each had a different way of teaching. The study materials were lacking. Homework was giving occasionally, but not everyday and no real good study material was given. My host family was very nice, and very caring. They went out of their way to take care of me. I lived with a few teenagers who were attending school in Xela, but their families were from different areas in Guatemala. It was nice to have someone to talk to and interact with while at my homestay. I would give the school a 9 out of 10 satisfaction rating. This was my first school, and my expectations were met. The director and her program at La Democracia did a great job making all the students feel comfortable and welcome while in Xela. Guatemala365.com is great independent website to conduct your primary research. Take Care, Jonathan.
Bridget 05 / 2008	I decided to go to La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for 2 weeks. I got a good teacher, although, students should know the teachers do not speak English. Study materials were fine, there were a few books at the school, but the syllabus was sufficient. Plus, we used a lot of local articles. I stayed with a single woman who ran a boarding house, which was a little different than what I expected. But she was great, as were the other students. Plenty of great food. I would rate the school with an A- for lack of books and English speaking staff. I really believe that this school is one of the best schools in Xela. It is small and personal, so students get a lot of attention. Plus, it is outside the tourists area, so there are less distractions from your studies and feels more like an immersion program. The director, Flory, puts together wonderful programs after classes, including hot springs, private concerts, salsa dancing and more. I highly recommend this school. Thanks, Bridget.
Jun Park leon628@gmail.com 05 / 2008	Hi, I decided to study at La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I took 2 weeks of lessons. My teacher was good. Study materials were really good. My host family were fabulous. Thanks, Jun.
Eric Fox 04 / 2008	Finally, I attended La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I studied there for 1.5 weeks, approx 5/13/08 to 5/21/08. My first teacher was too quiet and literature based for my tastes. He would have been great for an advanced student. However, after the first day when I asked Flory (the director) to switch, she was very helpful and accommodating. my other 2 teachers were quite good. Study materials at this school were good. A few books available, but the best resource was the (Maestros) teachers notebooks, with great concise explanations and examples. I spent most of my break time copying their personal notebooks! My host family here was amazing!!!! Great food, a comfy bed, and host parents that were very interested in helping me speak better. We would sit around the table for hours after dinner just talking! This is a very recommendable school with experienced instructors and interactive families, the only downside was a curfew. Great site for those beginning to think about and plan a trip to Guatemala to study Spanish. The detailed instructions, packing guide, directions, and FAQ were a great compliment to my guide book... It would be cool to be able to contact previous students to hear it first hand as well. Again, a fantastic site. Thank you for all your help and hard work. Don′t hesitate to contact me if I can provide more information!
Andreas Butzek mexico2008@vollbio.de 03 / 2008	I decided to attend La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied for one week there. My teacher Ramon was not good. Study materials were very simple, only workbooks and paper, no copies for the students and there were no whiteboards. My host family was ok, but I have no comparison. Well, I didn′t feel bad at all at this school. The directora and other people were always friendly, Internet was gratis (free) and there was a nice dinner obviously every Friday. But the teaching quality of Ramon (a recommended teacher on your website) was a little bit poor. La Democracia says they teach 25hrs, which is a little bit misleading. Every time it starts around 10 minutes later but ends 5 mints earlier, combined with 30 minute break you have effectively only 4hrs a day which is 20hrs a week. This school is ok. Regards, Andreas Butzek.
Louise Sullivan louise.j.sullivan@gmail.com 01 / 2008	I have been home for only one week and already I miss Guatemala. I attended La Democracia Spanish School in Quetzaltenango. I studied there for 4 weeks. I felt at home the instant I walked into the school. Flory, the director makes you feel welcomed and makes sure that all your needs are met. She is honest and a true delight to work with. One morning I expressed a problem I had with my first family and by noon, I was moved into a family that are now my friends. The meals were very satisfying and the evening conversations always interesting. The two teachers I had the opportunity of working with, were different in personality and interests. They were absolutely the best. They researched subjects that I was interested in and from there elaborated the contents of the classes, making every hour profitable. There were activities in the afternoon and on weekends. I loved every outing from the Fuentes Georginas to Salcaja, a small village outside of Xela. I highly recommend this school. The director and instructors are professional and friendly and make learning both challenging and exciting at the same time. Every student is celebrated on his last day of school. The teachers and students go shopping for the evening meal. It is then prepared as a group effort, making the event educational and fun at the same time. A good tip I would give, if attending a school in Quetzaltenango is to dress warmly and not to be afraid to speak to local people (in a safe way, of course). They appreciate us trying to interact with them. I also visited many towns in the area of Xela and that was a rewarding experience. I am already looking forward to my next month at the same school in 2010. Thank you and God bless your enterprise, Louise Sullivan.
Sara & Friends Wiener sarawiener@mac.com 11 / 2007	Hi, your site was a huge help to me and my family when I was figuring out where to study. I am very thankful to you and I have given your website to several friends and others who are interested in studying in Guatemala. We had a fantastic time! We loved everything about La Democracia Spanish School and Flory, the director, is an amazing person. Every one of her teachers is young, lively, fun, highly intelligent, and fabulous teachers!!!!!! Even our 10 year old daughter loved it! That says a lot, considering I don′t know how she managed the 5 hours of Spanish a day!!!! Flory′s teachers are amazing!!!! So, I think this will help you know how I feel about your services! Oh- in terms of study materials, there weren′t any. I don′t think this is a bad thing though- they have a very specific weekly plan figured out for each student individually. The teachers have a great book that they all use- it′s clearly custom made by the school, and they all also have their own notebook of notes they use. Also, they use a lot of games and fun activities to help us learn Spanish. They also use field trips as a teaching tool which is wonderful! We fell in love with our house mama, Rosi, after getting used to the huge adjustment of being there. Best wishes, Sara Wiener.
Pierre Morin uxmal@ccapcable.com 10 / 2007	Hi, I studied at La Democracia Spanish School in Xela. I studied there for 3 months. The best school that I had. There are good teachers and they were competent for me. Materials for study are missing a little to really incorporate the student in the language. There were more exercises, more "salidas" in the "medio", outings in between, where the student lived and want to "descubrir" discover. For me the experience there was perfect. I lived with a wonderful family and for sure I will not forget them. They were more than a host family, they were friend and sometimes parents in my case. I highly recommend La Democracia for all these teachers and its activities out of school. Thanks a Flory Hurtado. Thank also guatemala365, for your red of schools and be sure I go back at my home with a good experience after my 6 months of studying in Guatemala. Thanks, Pierre Morin.
Trent & Amy Hergenrader thergenrader@hotmail.com 08 / 2007	We had the most wonderful time in Xela and are already trying to figure out when we can come back for a longer stay. We studied at La Democracia Spanish School in Xela for two weeks. This school, definitely puts teaching first. We started each day at 8:00 sharp and went until 10:30. After a thirty minute break, we continued until 1:00. Almost every day, our teachers worked with us for awhile after 1:00 in order to finish the lesson properly. No clock watching for the teachers in this school! My wife had an excellent teacher (Erica) and I had a different teacher each week, both of whom were terrific (Carlos and Libia). There were study materials available but not often used. Libia regularly photocopied exercises out of a Spanish lesson book the week I was with her. Otherwise we both did lessons out of the Dorothy Richmond "Spanish Pronouns and Prepositions" and "Spanish Verb Tenses" and these were handy to have. Our host family was amazing. We stayed with a young woman and her two daughters about two blocks away from the school. We became very close with them and it was hard to say goodbye. We were served three nice-sized meals a day with good variety and fresh ingredients. The only downside is that there was hardly any hot water for bathing in the morning so you had to wash quickly, but we got used to it. The teachers were incredibly welcoming and patient and the director Flory is a wonderful person. She invited me to play in a ′futbol rapido′ league game with her brother and his team, all ex-players for the local professional soccer team, Xelaju MC. Flory didn′t have to do this, but she knew I loved soccer and even drove me to Futeca, then stayed to watch. The school′s only slight draw back were the extracurricular activities, which were a little disorganized. That didn′t bother us that much though. We were very happy to be in Zone 3 away from all the other tourists in downtown. Most, if not all of the students at La Democracia found the school using Guatemala365.com. This was an essential resource for us in deciding which school to attend. The top-rated schools in Xela were booked and La Democracia was our third choice and it exceeded our expectations. If anything, I felt that the score was too low for La Democracia considering the quality and dedication of the teaching we received. I have highly recommended the school to others seeking a Spanish immersion experience. Your site is terrific. Obviously I can′t speak for the descriptions of schools we didn′t attend, but everything on the La Democracia page was right on. Thanks so much, Trent Hergenrader. PS. You provide a tremendous service for these schools. Also, feel free to browse my pictures of our trip posted here: http://www.trenthergenrader.com.
Jordana Rubel jordanarubel@earthlink.net 08 / 2007	Hi, I attended La Democracia Spanish school in Xela. I studied there for 3 weeks. I had a great young teacher named Yessika. She was extremely patient with my beginning level vocabulary. She was also great about altering the level of her vocabulary as my Spanish got stronger so that I was always able to understand her. The school was well organized. Flory, the director, is incredibly nice and really wants each student to have a great experience. She consistently checks in with students to make sure that classes are going well and is willing to make changes if necessary. Each student is assigned an individual teacher, who they work with for about 4.5 hours per day. There is a 30 minute break in the middle of the morning, during which everyone has a chance to rest and talk to other teachers and students. There was an activity planned for almost every day. Sometimes of the activities would change without much notice, but that did not bother me. All activities are optional and they tried to arrange a variety of different types of activities so that there would be something for everyone. While I was there, the school organized trips to the local theater, to listen to folk music, to nearby markets and nature sites. Once a month, there is an overnight trip to a nearby location. My favorite were the weekly dinners - some at restaurants and some pot-luck style at the school. My family was incredible! I had all of my meals with the family and spent at least a couple of hours with them every evening. I liked being able to play with the young sons because it gave me a chance to practice my Spanish in a low key environment. The family made me feel very much at home and brought me with them to family activities, dinner at restaurants and even a soccer game. I would absolutely recommend this school to anyone. Students ranged from beginners (like me) to very advanced, and all got individualized attention and instruction. Most of all, there is a real family atmosphere in the school The school is located in Zone 3 of Xela, which places it outside the more touristy section of the city, and makes it possible to immerse yourself in Guatemalan culture and language. Most of the students at the school made an effort to speak in Spanish at all times, which also helped the immersion experience. Thanks, Jordana Rubel.