Local People Picture: Madeleine Weissenberg

In addition to formal studies, we provide daily cultural activities, such as trips, conferences, and recreational outings, scheduled outside of class time. We frequently visit nearby villages, markets, and public facilities and take advantage

of the area's hot springs and natural saunas. On weekends we take longer trips to climb volcanoes, explore more distant villages, see some of the beautiful resorts in Guatemala, and visit farms. During field trips we visit homes, schools, and radio stations, giving students glimpses of everyday life in Guatemala not easily accessible to tourists. Each week a trip is scheduled to see one of the projects of ICAmigos, the Non-Governmental Organization sponsored by I.C.A (Click here for a sample schedule of cultural activities)

San Andés Xecul, Totonicapán Picture: Madeleine Weissenberg

A highlight of our cultural program is weekly conferences or films. These give our students the opportunity to learn more about Guatemala's current political and social climate. We bring in experts on such issues as women's rights, street children, the after effects of Guatemala's civil war, and the various Mayan cultures in Guatemala. The films complement the conferences and are followed by a discussion session.

These optional activities challenge students to use their new knowledge of Spanish as a means of understanding and exchanging ideas with fellow students from many countries, teachers, and community members. We believe in a well-rounded educational experience for our students, exposing them to Guatemala's riches while increasing their awareness of the needs and social problems of the country. Trips and activities are chosen carefully with this philosophy in mind.