España – Although Flamenco dancing and bullfighting may first come to mind, Spain is a modern destination filled with diversity and contrast. From bustling streets adorned with modern architecture in the trend-setting city of Barcelona to the picturesque coastal town of Cádiz, where the locals charm even the most discerning traveler with their warmth, our summer programs in Spain will allow our students to experience the many gems present in Spanish culture, not only enhancing their Spanish proficiency but also awakening their minds to two very distinct regional cultures.
In the Spotlight: Valencia, SPAIN
Spanish Language & Culture
With dazzling beaches, world-class museums, and some of the best cuisine found on the Mediterranean, Valencia is an ideal summer destination! As the third-largest city in Spain, Valencia boasts the cosmopolitan and modern conveniences of larger European cities, while maintaining its Spanish identity, regional customs, and friendly coastal attitude. It is known locally for its numerous lively festivals, and as the home of the favorite Spanish rice dish, Paella. Throughout the centuries, Valencia has been in the hands of the Moors, Romans, Greeks, Phoenicians, and Iberians, and has built upon that history to become one of the most artistic and vibrant communities in Spain.
The Valencia program will take students to Denia, a quaint and historical beach town, to experience the mesmerizing views of the coast and mountains while on the famous Limón Express train. The group will also visit the medieval town of Sagunto with its kilometer-long castle, the beautiful beaches in the bustling university town of Castellón, and the Gothic town of Morella. During the third week of the program, students and staff will take a four-day trip to one of the most popular destinations in Europe: Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. A favorite city of our students, Barcelona is known for such ground-breaking artists as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and architectural genius Antoni Gaudí. Abbey Roaders will have the opportunity to see some of their work and will be amazed by such architectural gems as La Sagrada Familia, Casa Battló, and La Pedrera. The group will also spend plenty of time exploring the stylish neighborhoods of this fascinating cosmopolitan city.
Our summer residential immersion program in Valencia is a pre-college program for high school students who have a desire to learn about Spanish language and culture while immersing in the Mediterranean lifestyle. Students will also participate in a wide range of cultural activities covering flamenco, cuisine, cinema, and popular music!