photo courtesy of Barbara Hicks
Lisa Lubin explains how to enjoy a week of good wine and great conversation in the heart of Spain - for free.
Habla Ingles??
What if I told you that I just had a whole week’s vacation in a four-star villa in a small, beautiful village near Salamanca, Spain and it included three full meals a day with wine and it came with about forty new best friends …all for free?
I know what you’re thinking, ‘Yeah, right, Lisa, what’s the catch?’
Well, there was one catch — all I had to do was speak English. And considering it is my native language…it wasn’t all that difficult (OK, maybe it was difficult late at night after sampling a few too many Spanish wines).
Que?
Pueblo Inglés is not exactly a school for English—it’s more like an intense English ‘experience. It’s a unique opportunity for native English speakers to immerse themselves in Spain’s culture and people firsthand in exchange for simply chatting with Spaniards.
And for the Spanish folks, it’s like an intensive week-long English ‘sleep-away camp’ which gives them the opportunity to improve and practice their English-speaking skills the best way—by force of course.
For the duration of the week, they are forbidden to speak Spanish and must converse in and listen to English at all hours of the day…easy for me, not so much for them.
I was trawling the web one day looking for a job or volunteer work in Spain when the website for Pueblo Inglés popped up.
The idea scared and intrigued me at the same time—not only would I be able to travel for one week without spending a dime (that’s 15 cents in Euro), it would enable me to meet and connect with real Spaniards who mostly come from the professional business world—something often hard to do when you are a tourist on a budget (or globetrotting vagabond like me).
I applied on a whim, not knowing if I truly wanted to commit to this week of constant jibber-jabber. I figured they probably wouldn’t accept me on such short notice or I could always say ‘no.’ Exactly one day later I received an email: “Welcome! You’ve been accepted to Pueblo Ingles!”
Oh, and it was starting in two days. Time to high-tail it to Madrid.
Donde?
The morning of the eight-day program we all gathered in a plaza in Madrid and were herded onto a bus. We rode for three hours west of the capital city to a tiny rural town called La Alberca full of winding cobblestone lanes. The countryside was dotted with clusters of trees, all dropping acorns and chestnuts onto the hilly green backdrop.
Our hotel was in a bucolic setting with shady paths and ponds and was more like a group of several chalets. I was joined by about 20 English-speaking volunteers from Canada, the US, England, Australia, and Ireland and 20 Spaniards from all over Spain with ages ranging from early twenties to sixty plus.
English Spoken Here
The program directors, Pablo from Spain and Akemi from California, laid down the law at the get-go: The most important rule of Pueblo Ingles–NO Spanish allowed. They really wanted this to be a true and hardcore immersion experience for the Spaniards—basically forcing them to drink, eat, sleep, and possibly dream in English.
The Agenda
Each morning after pants-splitting buffet breakfast we paired off into ‘couples’ for ‘one to one’ conversations that would last about 50 minutes. After a ten minute break, we would then swap and grab another Spaniard for the next hour and so on.
It was a bit like a speed dating scene—everyone gabbing at once, getting to know each other.Everyone was unique, friendly and fun. Despite my initial fears, we never once ran out of things to talk about.
photo courtesy of Alfredo Avila
Everyday I was paired with different people and we constantly did different activities. It certainly was an odd and funny sight to see all these coupled pairs of people wandering around the grounds, sitting in chairs, and strolling down the street.
If someone didn’t know better, it probably looked like some kind of psychiatric institution or rehab center at which we were all getting over our drug, alcohol, or other addictions. Of course, if they saw our parties every night, they would probably think it wasn’t a very good program.
We would usually have a break sometime in the morning and also other activities like games, conference calls, and presentations—during which lucky Spaniards got to tell us all about their jobs, or Anglos entertained us with some kind of unique skill they have (singing, dancing, and other random embarrassing behavior).
A tasty three-course lunch with plenty of vino (nothing gets conversations going like some cheap wine) was at two o’clock, followed by the very crucial Spanish siesta (nap time) which I really think we should instate here in America.
At five o’clock we continued with more talking, fun group discussions about anything and everything and hilarious skits.
It reminded me of some university days doing role playing and brainstorming to come up with the most entertaining performance. It was fun to just be silly and what I really remember most is laughing almost all the time.
One day we toured the lovely nearby medieval village for a bit of a break. A three-course dinner with more wine, of course, was at nine (a little late for the Anglos and too early for the Spaniards) and then their Inglés would really get tested as many of us hung out at the bar until the wee hours of the morning.
The Spanish really know how to party.
Jesus and David made me laugh my ass off. Vicente made me feel like the queen of the dance floor. Cecilia was a sweetheart who invited me to stay in her home in Madrid after the program.
I can’t say enough about the new friends I made here. Yes, the program was free and that was my initial draw to it, but I realized later that the experience was ‘worth’ so much more.
The Easy Life
The beauty of this program is that your entire schedule is laid out for you. There is really nothing to worry about. I had my own small ‘villa’ that I shared with Potola, a boisterous and hilarious flight attendant from Madrid.
Our ‘casa’ was just steps from the lobby and bar so it was so easy to stumble to bed before sunrise, and get up the next morning (even if it was only a few hours later) and just walk over to my next session of speaking English. There was no commute, no metro, no taxi. You just walked home in two minutes. Life was simple and good.
It was easy for me, but much harder and more tiring for the Spaniards who had to do everything in their second language. Imagine being constantly forced to speak Spanish all day. Your brain would be so tired. And even when they were ‘enjoying the fruits of the vine” (read: drunk) and dancing they were still speaking English.
After a week of fun, we all ‘graduated’ and received our certificates for completing not only a week long English ‘course’ but one of the most fun weeks I’ve had in a long time.
All in all, the 8 days spent at Pueblo Inglés was like an intense microcosm of life—a condensed, easy version and having to say goodbye after our amazing week together was hard for me.
Hopefully the Spaniards improved their English and I know I have made some amazing new friends in Spain that will remain in my heart and hopefully in my life forever.
To find out how you can have a free week in Spain, check out: www.puebloingles.com.
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32 Comments... join the discussion!
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I was on that program, and I had to pay every bit of the way, it was all a big hoax. Not happy at all with it, it cost me around 2 or 3 grand in total… I would sue their asses if it wasn’t because I’m in a different country. No offense to the writer, but they didn’t show you the true side love. Knowing that you were a writer, they probably gave you the experience for free. All 20 of us that went there were unhappy, had bad food and had to pay for everything. It was nothing like what they had promised. And it’s a shame, cause I’ve been to Spain a few times and all it does is degrade the true beauty of the country.
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Mr. Pliezo,
As pleasant as your letter makes you sound, I'm truly shocked that you didn't have a nice time. Why did you continue to pay for bad food or stay in a place that made you so unhappy? There were 20 of you that were unhappy, yet not one left? I really hate these blogs because you have no way of knowing what someone says is true or not. It is, however, easy to slam people this way. Was it 2 or 3 Grand? That's a pretty big difference too. The one thing that's completely believable is that Spain is a truly beautiful country.↵ -
I'm so sorry you feel this way.
The people at Pueblo Ingles did not know I was a writer and I was participating as a regular volunteer. The time at Pueblo Ingles is completely free for Anglo Volunteers. The only thing you have to pay for is drinks (except wine is included with Lunch and Dinner) and your 'way' to Madrid. It is not free if you are a Spanish person..as most of their companies pay for them to attend. They are a big, completely reputable company based in Madrid and you can ask them for any more info at http://www.puebloingles.com.
Everyone I've spoken to, other volunteers and Spaniards, immensely enjoyed the program and many have even gone back several times as will I. We are all still in touch to this day and have become good friends. I am really surprised to hear your reaction and it's one I've never heard before.↵ -
Mr. Pliezo,
As pleasant as your letter makes you sound, I’m truly shocked that you didn’t have a nice time. Why did you continue to pay for bad food or stay in a place that made you so unhappy? There were 20 of you that were unhappy, yet not one left? I really hate these blogs because you have no way of knowing what someone says is true or not. It is, however, easy to slam people this way. Was it 2 or 3 Grand? That’s a pretty big difference too. The one thing that’s completely believable is that Spain is a truly beautiful country.↵ -
I’m so sorry you feel this way.
The people at Pueblo Ingles did not know I was a writer and I was participating as a regular volunteer. The time at Pueblo Ingles is completely free for Anglo Volunteers. The only thing you have to pay for is drinks (except wine is included with Lunch and Dinner) and your ‘way’ to Madrid. It is not free if you are a Spanish person..as most of their companies pay for them to attend. They are a big, completely reputable company based in Madrid and you can ask them for any more info at http://www.puebloingles.com.Everyone I’ve spoken to, other volunteers and Spaniards, immensely enjoyed the program and many have even gone back several times as will I. We are all still in touch to this day and have become good friends. I am really surprised to hear your reaction and it’s one I’ve never heard before.
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I'd appreciate a little more info Pliezo - how did you participate with Pueblo Ingles? It's weird how out-of-line your comment is with the experience Lisa describes…
-TP
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I’d appreciate a little more info Pliezo - how did you participate with Pueblo Ingles? It’s weird how out-of-line your comment is with the experience Lisa describes…
-TP
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Wow! How intriguing! I will definitely check this out. More please!!!
namaste,
Roldan Smith
http://www.on-common-ground.com↵ -
Wow! How intriguing! I will definitely check this out. More please!!!
namaste,
Roldan Smith
http://www.on-common-ground.com↵ -
I think you should have gone into more detail of what it took to take part. Surely it's very demanding having so many lessons a day. Did you have to plan them, did you spend time thinking up activities, did they provide you with materials etc. It looks as though they ask for a lot more than what they give you. A week in a casa rural in the spanish country side is not that expensive.
I'm sure you had a good time, but you should have been more balanced in your review.
p.s It's ¿Dónde?, ¿Qué? and inglés.
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I think you should have gone into more detail of what it took to take part. Surely it’s very demanding having so many lessons a day. Did you have to plan them, did you spend time thinking up activities, did they provide you with materials etc. It looks as though they ask for a lot more than what they give you. A week in a casa rural in the spanish country side is not that expensive.
I’m sure you had a good time, but you should have been more balanced in your review.
p.s It’s ¿Dónde?, ¿Qué? and inglés.
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I volunteered at La Alberca this June and I can tell you that Lisa's description is accurate! Pueblo Ingles' slogan is "More than English." I think this speaks to the friendships established during the program — between Anglos (the native English speakers) and Spainards. It was one of the most rewarding weeks I've ever spent. I have considerable experience living and working abroad, but this experience is truly unique. It's a bit like summer camp for adults. I encourage you to participate if you are outgoing, inquisitive and willing to share of yourself.
Great article, Lisa!
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I volunteered at La Alberca this June and I can tell you that Lisa’s description is accurate! Pueblo Ingles’ slogan is “More than English.” I think this speaks to the friendships established during the program — between Anglos (the native English speakers) and Spainards. It was one of the most rewarding weeks I’ve ever spent. I have considerable experience living and working abroad, but this experience is truly unique. It’s a bit like summer camp for adults. I encourage you to participate if you are outgoing, inquisitive and willing to share of yourself.
Great article, Lisa!
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I will be volunteering at Pueblo Ingles in September and I would like to have the best experience possible. Any suggestion? Charmaine
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I volunteered with Pueblo Ingles in October of 2007 at Pals in the Costa Brava, and this experience is MORE than worth your flight over there to Spain, which is about all it'll cost you if you are an "Anglo," as they call them. It is truly amazing. That first comment is absolutely ridiculous and doesn't make any sense. It is volunteer work and they never make any Anglo pay. In fact, they gave me a bottle of delicious local cava wine as a thank you for participating, after all they had given me all week! Perhaps P. went when they were going through transition from an older company — I believe they were under another name a long time ago, I think it started with a "V." The only other thing I can think of is that this commentator works for some sort of competing company, to be honest. My experience is one that I will treasure, and I hope to go back again. The reasons I go to Spain are not to be a "tourist" — I go because I want to get to know the people, the culture, the real Spain. This program allows you to meet and interact with Spaniards from all over the country, and not only do you get lodging at (in Pals, at least) a gorgeous hotel and 5-course authentic Spanish meals complete with your choice of red or white Spanish wine, but you get the absolute pleasure of teaching someone something as basic as a language. A language! It is incredible. You begin to feel almost parental over these people, and by the end of the week, you really don't even want to leave. If you are considering Pueblo Ingles — I'd be happy to talk to anyone and direct them to the numerous happy participants who were in my particular group — just respond to this post with an email address. This is honestly a wonderful experience, and I couldn't bear seeing that completely absurd first comment without responding to it. Amy Segreti
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This sounds like such a wonderful experience, as I am looking to venture more out the country. I think it is so amazing to get immersed in a new culture, and learn a new way of living. I would like to talk to you Amy about you overall experience. My e-mail is shampain3000@hotmail.com. I look forward to hearing more about this unique trip.
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Hi, I am from Malta and here we speak English quite fluently. Actually, nowadays it is considered as a first language even in our Laws. Would such program accept someone like me as an 'Anglo'? I'd love to experience such a thing although I have never done anything of the sort. Thanking you in advance. Really interesing article. Thanks for sharing it with us. email: charltonmicallef@gmail.com
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Yeah, I'm not too sure what program Pliezo was on…or maybe he went not as an Anglo volunteer but as a paying Spaniard. According to some of the Spaniards I've met on the programs it's about 2500euros a person. I've participated in two programs this year–the first in La Alberca and the second less than a month ago in Pals. I've totally fallen in love with Spain and the Pueblo Ingless experience. As soon as I see their schedule for next year I'll plan my trip(s).
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Few months back I was nervous about participating in a program such as Pueblo Ingles, the over seas volunteering was very new to me. None the less I did extensive research and decided to make the best of it no matter what. Well I am happy to say that I was more than pleasantly surprised. Pueblo Ingles was very well organized, very professional, very diverse and a whole lot of fun. Often when traveling we see only the sites but we learn very little of the actual culture; Pueblo Ingles offers an opportunity to its volunteers to get to know the Spaniards and learn from them as they learn from us. It truly is a very human experience that I would not trade for the world. I will definitely participate again. As an “Anglo” my transportation, my accommodations at the breathtaking Valdelavilla and my delicious meals was totally free. I was entertained throughout the week and I met several lasting friends. Thanks Pueblo Ingles.
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I'm 19 years old, does anyone know if they would allow me to participate?
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Yes, you can participate in Pueblo Ingles adult program. AND<<<< if you are a college student you receive 100 hours of academic volunteer hours per week that you are there! My son earned a full credit on his academic transcripts for his two weeks at PI last summer! You meet Anglos from all over the world—Great Britain, Australia, States, Canada etc…. So the Spaniards improve their listening skills by having all the dialects and accents to deal with. It is amazing how close you become as a group after spending such an intense eight days together! Magali, I would suggest you contact Pueblo Ingles and either ask for a week when there are a few other young people also volunteering at Pueblo Ingles adult venue (if this is important to you), or you can recruit some friends and volunteer at the same time, giving you the opportunity to travel together before or after you volunteer period as well. Madrid is absolutely beautiful!!!
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I volunteered at La Alberca in August of 2007 and had a fabulous time. The only downside were the couple of Volunteers who thought they were on holiday, got drunk every night and made a fool of themselves. Everyone else were great and I met some really fantastic people, had great food and didn't feel exploited at all despite the longish days of non stop chat. I suppose there will always be the odd one it doesn't suit but I think the vast majority havea positive experience and I would do it all again in a heartbeat.
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Has anyone volunteered along with their spouse? Do you get to see them much, or are you essentially seperated from them the whole time? We think this would be a great experience, but are hesitant because we wouldn't want to spend a week in Spain and not be able to share it with each other. Would you say this is more of a program for singles?
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Hi Lisa, I'm leaving for the same program in two days. Like your experience, this is a very last minute adventure. Thanks so much for sharing. I thought the turn around time was a little crazy, but after reading your post - I feel much, much better. Thanks again for sharing!
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Great!!! Have a great time…i am pretty sure you will. Thanks to everyone for the comments.
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Hi, I just signed up for the teen program one and I have a few questions.
Where did you walk to when you had your one on one conversations?
Do you get to go to any where you want?
Or were you only allowed to go where its supervised?
How was the scenery?Please and thank you.
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That sounds amazing! I will definitely check it out - thanks for sharing!
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Thank you for sharing you experience and this information with the rest of us suffering from wanderlust!!!
You did good.
I plan to apply ASAP.
Thanks Again.
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How do I get information on signing up for Pueblo Ingles when I went to their web site it was in Spanish which I speak very little Is it all year long or just certain Months?
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Shirley Busuttil, try this link: http://www.morethanenglish.com/anglos/index.asp
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