French, Creole and Spanish Language Classes
I understand that knowing the language of a country is in direct correlation with comprehending the culture. Even though language is one form of communication a traveler can utilize, it is still one the most important factors when traveling. I've noticed many travelers have been interested in learning French and/or Creole when traveling to Haiti, and learning Spanish in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Below are some schools and/or private tutoring in Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico:
Haiti
Institut Francais Haiti: Located in Port-au-Prince, the institute offers French language courses throughout the year. The information on the website is outdated, therefore it would be better to contact them directly for pricing and scheduling.
99, rue Lamartiniere
Bois Verna
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
+509 31 61 4545
com@institutfrancaishaiti.org
As per Couchsurfing, many have recommend Reginald Aris: a private tutor from Port-au-Prince who is said to charge $200 for 10 classes. Many non-profit organizations hire him to teach volunteers French and Creole. He can be contacted through Facebook.
Dominican Republic
Santiago
American Language Partnership International: Founded by a group of veteran university ESL professors from the United States, ALPI is located in the heart of downtown Santiago. Their Spanish Language Immersion Program not only teaches students the language but immerses them into the culture by organizing guided tours, and cultural activities. There is group instruction of no more than six students and one-on-one tutoring. For: pricing.
Centro Cultural Dominico Americano: Established in 1962, led by a Board of Directors, the cultural center offers Spanish classes to Adults of 22 years and onwards. There aren't prices or much description on the website, may have to contact school.
Av Sadhalá Estrella, 101, La Esmeralda
Phone: 809-582-6627
Email: info@ccda.edu.do
Santo Domingo
University APEC: Created in 1964 to boost the higher education in the Dominican Republic, APEC offers Spanish for Foreigners. Classes are from Monday to Friday at various times. RD $4,200
Note: The university also offers French courses!
8:00am to 10:00am 10:00am to 12:00pm
12:00pm to 2:00pm 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Av Maximo Gomez, 72
Phone: 809-686-0021
DomÃnico Americano Language School: Founded in 1947 by a group of Dominicans and United States citizens to strengthen the bonds of friendship and culture between Americans and Dominicans. TheirSpanish for Foreigners program offers five levels, each with a duration of three months. Note: Website doesn't have prices, may have to contact directly.
Class Schedule:
Monday through Thursday: 3:00pm to 5:00pm; 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9:00am to Noon
Ave. Abraham Lincoln, 21
Phone: 809-535-0665
Puerto Rico
San Juan
Spanish Por Favor: Founded in 2004, the Spanish division of Think Abroad, initiated to promote the Spanish language, has both standard and intensive courses offering instruction in three levels, given in San Juan and their other location in Bayamon.
Note: This dedicated institution also has other amazing Spanish immersion programs around Latin America.
Phone: 800-699-9685
Institute for Second Language Acquisition: Recently opened in 2010, the school offers a true full on immersion experience, offering Spanish classes, lodging, meals, excursions, and cultural activities. There are classroom, private or a combination packages. For: dates/prices.
Phone: 787-771-8888
Email: info@spanishisla.com
Until next time....
Saludos!
