Where to start?! If you want to enrich your cultural knowledge, explore stylish places that are less touristy, discover cool anecdotes, and learn about the history of Guatemala and the Mayan people from incredible speakers, you’ve come to the right place!
Do not hesitate to join this amazing program. I spent three months on the shores of Lake Atitlan and I recommend it 200%. In addition to cultural enrichment, you will learn about permaculture and Spanish! Let’s talk about the Spanish school…
The place is absolutely magnificent! The intensive classes are conducted in the middle of an open-air garden, making it a pleasant place to study. The lessons are held in very small groups (1-3 students), which is perfect for rapid progress regardless of your level. In addition to grammar and conjugation, you get a lot of insight into Mayan culture and country traditions. It’s an incredible experience!!! In the afternoon, a free and optional cultural activity is offered, which provides an opportunity to learn more and share moments with other students.
During the program, you will be staying with a family in a private room, with three meals a day (except Sundays, which are the family’s day off). The atmosphere is authentic and very family-like. In my house, the terrace offered a magnificent view of the Indian nose! And above all, the family I stayed with were adorable!!! We had genuine exchanges and beautiful moments of sharing. Graziella’s food is exceptional, and she gladly taught us how to make tortillas or Tejido. They offered us several times to accompany them on their outings (market, wedding, traditional festivals…). Unforgettable moments !!!
In short, go there with your eyes closed and enjoy! The only risk you take is never wanting to leave. Regarding permaculture, I admit that at first, I thought it was a new fashionable ecological concept. But in fact, thanks to IMAP and the various speakers/volunteering experience, I discovered something much more serious and profound that has been around for ages. It is a philosophy that could radically change our relationship with nature by revising the way we exploit it. Permaculture is a way of life that allows us to live in harmony with nature. PDC teaches us how to create self-sustaining and productive systems using natural techniques while considering the relationships and interactions between plants, animals, and the environment; skills that are much needed today!
