Spanish for Grownups FAQ

How is Spanish for Grown–Ups different from other Spanish language programs?: The program is tailored to people who have the time and resources to relax and enjoy life and travel, but who also want to do something educational — keeping their brains active — at the same time. It offers a combination of innovative instruction along with numerous cultural attractions in a comfortable, centrally-located residential setting.
Why should I come to Mendoza to study Spanish?: You’ll love the welcoming, outgoing people, the 300 days a year of sun, the music and art and food and wine, the high quality of life — and the comforts of a private, secure setting.
What are the lodgings like?: The studio apartments are next to the garden and pool, on the premises of the home of two Americans who have lived in Mendoza for six years. Each apartment has a private bath tiled in local Travertine marble and a kitchenette that’s equipped for preparation of light meals. The interiors feature built-in armoires, local ceramics and textiles, and paintings by host Riccardo. Learners will be able to enjoy the garden and terrace with grape arbor and barbeque facilities. Each apartment can be made up with a queen bed or twins. Apartments and outdoor area have free wifi.
Where is the Center?: We are located on a tree–shaded residential street at Martinez de Rosas, 1641 in the city of Mendoza. From the Center you can walk to the main square of Mendoza, Plaza Independencia, as well as to several other plazas and San Martin Park, a wonderful green space that is larger than New York’s Central Park. Restaurants, grocery stores and vendors, cafes, cultural and entertainment options, pharmacies and other necessary services are within walking distance.
What is Mendoza like?: The city has about 120,000 residents in a metro area of 1.2 million. It is an oasis in a desert, with lovely parks and plazas that are popular with both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is Mediterranean, with outdoor cafes and restaurants. A lively cultural and art scene offers cinema, theater, concerts, and art shows. The wine country starts about a 20–minute ride outside of town. In about an hour, you enter the magnificent landscape of the Andes Mountains.
How’s the climate?: Known as the “land of sun and good wine,” Mendoza has 300 days a year of sun and a very agreeable climate. The average high in the winter months (June, July and August) is approximately 55 degrees Fahrenheit, with the temperature ranging as much as 20 degrees higher or lower on a given day. Year–round, Mendocinos observe the mid–day siesta, with businesses, offices, etc. closing from about 1:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Where exactly is Mendoza and how do I get there?: Ensconced at the base of the Andes, Mendoza is about a 25–minute plane connection from Santiago, Chile or a 1.5–hour plane ride from Buenos Aires. You can travel from Santiago, across the Andes, by bus in about 8 hours; the bus ride from Buenos Aires is about 12 hours. Argentina and Chile offer popular “deluxe” overnight bus services that feature meals, movies, and reclining seats that lie flat like a bed.
Do I need a visa for Argentina?: North Americans and Europeans can receive a 90–day tourist visa upon arriving at the border of Argentina.
Do I need any special shots or medicines for Mendoza?: No. However, if you plan to travel to tropical areas such as Iguazu Falls, on the same trip, you should consult your doctor for advice. In general, Argentina has a very high quality-of-life with excellent medical services and other facilities.
Can I drink the water?: Yes! Argentina has one of the highest standards of living in South America. First–time visitors are often surprised to find that unlike some other countries in Latin America, Argentina has top medical services, accessibility to computer services (including wifi at the Posada), sophisticated dining options and a well–educated populace. If you were expecting conditions in Mendoza to be similar to those in Mexico or Central America, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the difference.

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