Alcala--Mi Casa Lejos de Mi Casa, Siempre en Mi Corazon

I would recommend this program if you're wanting to experience all of what Spain has to offer. Friendly people, amazing food, major history. Alcala is close to urban Madrid (quick train ride away) and still a Spanish-speaking, authentic town with the full experience you're looking for. In this program you'll get to learn about the Spanish culture in many facets--mine involved working with a refugee camp, documenting the movement stopping violence against women, and studying the history and present day effects of the slave trade from Africa to Europe (traveled to Portugal & Morocco). Madrid is also the best location to travel to other major cities and countries as it is in central Spain. The staff at Universidad de Alcala is the friendliest!