I chose Menorca for my Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme because I wanted to improve my Spanish in a real, natural environment while also discovering the culture of the island. I came from Rome, Italy, where I work as an estate agent, and being able to communicate confidently in Spanish is something I really value, both personally and professionally.
I already had a strong B2 level when I arrived, but during my two weeks with Mónica, my host teacher and the Founder and Director of Spanish Express, I felt that my Spanish became more fluent, more confident, and much more natural.
The experience was not only about lessons. It was about living the language every day: during conversations, meals, walks, excursions, and normal daily life. Mónica corrected my mistakes in a very gentle and practical way, and I always felt encouraged to speak. I especially enjoyed being able to discuss real topics, compare Italian and Spanish culture, and use Spanish in meaningful conversations.
Menorca completely amazed me. I loved discovering Ciutadella and Mahón, and some of the places we visited were truly unforgettable. Palacio Torre-Saura was beautiful, Sa Naveta d’Es Tudons was fascinating, and Líthica was one of the most impressive places I saw on the island. I also loved Playa Algaiarens, which quickly became one of my favourite beaches.
Food was another important part of the experience. I really enjoyed trying local Menorcan products, especially sobrassada and cheese. I was also invited to try gin amb llimonada, and I loved it! It was one of those moments where learning Spanish suddenly became even more relaxed, social, and enjoyable.
Another lovely part of the experience was meeting Mónica’s childhood friends. They were so much fun, warm, lively, and welcoming. Even when the conversations moved quickly between Spanish, Catalan, Menorcan expressions, and lots of laughter, I felt included and encouraged to join in. It was real-life Spanish practice at its best — natural, spontaneous, and full of personality.
Mónica and I got on very well from the beginning. Of course, sharing the same name was already a funny start. Every time someone said “Mónica,” we both looked up, which made us laugh more than once. We also discovered that we had a very similar sense of humour, so even when I made mistakes in Spanish or mixed up words, the atmosphere was always relaxed and fun.
There were many funny little moments during the two weeks: trying to understand Menorcan expressions, comparing Italian and Spanish gestures, laughing at how dramatic we could both be, and realising that sometimes language mistakes create the best conversations. Considering the language and cultural differences, I think we did very well — and we laughed a lot along the way.
My two weeks in Menorca were much more than a Spanish course. They were a complete cultural and personal experience. I improved my Spanish, discovered a beautiful island, enjoyed local traditions, met wonderful people, and felt truly welcomed.
I would definitely recommend the Spanish Homestay Immersion Programme to anyone who wants to learn Spanish in a real, human, and unforgettable way.