●
FLSAS has
organized a "Spanish in Miami"® Program. After 30+ years, we
know (or we hope we know) what participants are looking for in a
“Study Abroad” Program. Technically, it is not really
Study Abroad, because you are still in the United States.
Physically, yes, you are in the United States, but the buildings, the
billboards, the signs, the people, the foods, the palm trees, the
newspaper headlines, etc. might make you believe otherwise.
● This is a program
for those who, in addition to the total language immersion experience,
want to experience the cultural offerings of Miami’s Spanish
speaking community.
● We know you will
learn Spanish. We know you will learn a great deal about the
customs and cultures of many nations. We hope you will enjoy
yourself.
● Please come with
an open mind, the spirit of cooperation, the ability to adjust to
different customs and cultures, and a sense of humor.
Miami, a Bi-lingual / Multi-Cultural City.
● Miami is known as
the "Gateway to the Americas." Miami (Miami-Dade County) is over
60% Hispanic. Many areas, Little Havana, Hialeah, Westchester,
etc. are almost 100% Hispanic.
● In contrast with
other cities in the U.S. with a high Hispanic population, the Hispanic
population of Miami is much better educated. Also, in contrast
with other bi-lingual cities worldwide, in Miami, there is a constant
influx of educated native speakers of Spanish.
● It is not a
static population. In addition to the people who immigrate to
Miami for political or economic reasons, there are also a high
percentage of tourists from Latin America who come for short stays as
well as others who have homes or apartments here and return for
extended vacations each year. The continuous presence of
businesspeople from Latin America adds to the educated Spanish speaking
population. In Miami you are able to be totally immersed in
Spanish; it is very easy to hear Spanish correctly spoken by educated
native speakers at all times.
● Although Cubans
still predominate, all countries of the Americas are well
represented. Every nationality has its own social and cultural
center whose members welcome visitors to their events.
● The newspaper
lists daily discussion groups (practical matters and/or cultural
interest) in Spanish, and in bookstores you can find books and
magazines from all over the Spanish speaking world. Even the
local Borders and Barnes & Noble have a considerable collection of
Spanish materials.
● In many areas of Miami, you will think you have left the United States and are in a different country.
▪ Number of Participants:
▫ Private Tutoring: one-to-one.
▫ Small Groups: From 2 to 5 in one group. We prefer a maximum of 5 in a group.
▫ Small Classes (may not be available – ask): From 2 to 5 in one
group. We prefer a maximum of 5 in a group.
▪ Program Length:
From one full day, 2 or 3 day stays (weekdays or weekends) to as long
as you need (one week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 2 months, etc.).
▪ Dates / Time of Year:
▫ Private Tutoring: At your convenience throughout the year.
▫ Small Groups: At your convenience throughout the year.
▫ Small Classes: Summer..
▪ Number of Lessons:
▫ Private Tutoring: Will vary with the needs of the participant.
▫ Small Groups: Will vary with the needs of the participant.
▫ Small Classes: 15 or 20.
▪ Cultural & Leisure Activities:
Activities to practice the language are part of the program.
Extra cultural activities focusing on multi-cultural Miami are part of
the program.
▪ Lodging:
It is up to you. You can make your own arrangements… or we
can make the arrangements for you. Hotels, Apartments, HomeStays,
etc.
▪ Proficiency Levels:
From Absolute Beginner to Near Native Speaker.
▪ Special Cultural Concentrations:
Available.
