Recently voted Best City in the World in the Wanderlust Travel Awards 2009, Antigua is one of Latin America's real gems. It boasts a spectacular setting in Guatemala's Central Highlands, nestled between three volcanoes, and its well-preserved colonial architecture and fairtytale pastel-coloured houses have earned it the status of World Heritage site. Bunting and streamers bounce in the breeze, usually in honour of one the city's colourful festivals (Holy Week is particularly memorable), cafés serving rich Guatemalan coffee abound, and as a place to learn Spanish it's extremely popular, flush with language schools and those eager to learn. It makes the perfect introduction to any Latin American trip.
Cactus offers a variety of Spanish courses in Antigua Guatemala, including a Spanish and salsa course and combined language and volunteer projects. Accommodation is provided in a student residence or, for maximum immersion in the language and culture, with friendly local homestays. Wherever you stay, you will have the opportunity to take part in the language school's many activities and excursions which provide a wonderful chance to meet the locals and other students, and of course practise the language.
