Frequently Asked Questions about
Veronica's San Juan Del Sur Spanish School

Where is the school located?
Veronica's San Juan del Sur Spanish School is located near the "Supermercado Pali" on the main street of San Juan del Sur (close to the entrace to the town). The school used to be located at the Restaurante Lago Azul but now there is a different Spanish school at that location.

Why should I study Spanish in San Juan del Sur?
San Juan del Sur is one of the most beautiful towns in Central America. It is right on the beach on Nicaragua's pacific coast. There are countless nearby activities including canopy tours, horseback riding, surfing, community service opportunities, and many others! You can visit the San Juan del Sur website for more information about this great town. To view student testimonials, scroll down to the bottom of our classes page. Also, all proceeds from the school benefit local children with disabilities -- please see our activities page for more information and photos of some of the children.

What is the history behind the SSS School?
The SSS School is run by Verónica Castro, the former director of the SJDS Nicaragua Spanish School (NSS). In January of 2006 NSS closed all of its Spanish schools and has offered its full endorsement of SSS. The Director is Verónica Castro, the former NSS SJDS school Director and teacher trainer.

Are the teachers at SSS specially trained?
Yes! All teachers at SSS are skilled in working with students of all levels. SSS teachers hold classes entirely in Spanish and use an interactive, conversationally-based method. Your curriculum is tailored to your own needs and interests. Students improve their oral comprehension, speaking, and writing skills through daily one-on-one classes. SSS teachers have an excellent knowledge of Spanish grammar and Nicaraguan history and culture. Additionally, the school director, Veronica Castro, and several of our teachers have been specially certified and trained in teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language.

How does the homestay program work?
SSS homestay families are within walking distance from the school and will provide you with a private room that you can lock. The homestay has proven to be one of the most popular aspects of the SSS program – the families are very friendly and try their best to make you feel at home. If you have any special needs, they can generally be accommodated by your homestay family. However, if for some reason you are unhappy with your experience you can change homestays.

Is Nicaragua safe?
Nicaragua is one of the safest and friendliest countries in Latin America. Students find Nicaraguans -- and especially residents of San Juan del Sur -- to be very hospitable and kind. As with most other Latin American countries, you should always exercise caution when travelling.

Is there volunteer work available?
Yes! Just ask at the school and they can get you set up with a volunteer opportunity that meets your interests. If you would like to continue volunteering after you language program ends, you can extend your homestay.

Is a visa required to travel to Nicaragua?
People from nearly every country (including the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most European countries) do not need a visa to enter Nicaragua. A tourist card can be purchased upon arrival in Nicaragua for $5. For a list countries whose citizens must obtain a visa to enter the country, see: http://www.visitanicaragua.com/english/info/paisesvisa.html

Should I get any special immunizations before my trip?
The US and most other countries do not require any special immunizations to visit Nicaragua. For more information, see the Center for Disease Control. To protect yourself against getting sick, you should make sure your normal inoculations are up-to-date and be careful what you eat outside of your homestay.

What are the Nicaraguan Holidays?
New Years Day, Catholic Holy Thursday or Good Friday in March/April, May 1st, July 19th, August 1st, August 10th, September 14th or 15th, and Christmas Day.

How do I find a cheap flight to Nicaragua?
We recommend that you do comparison shopping for flights into Managua using a site such as Kayak.com. Although flights to Nicaragua can be slightly more expensive than flights to other countries, the cost of living while you are studying in San Juan del Sur is very low.

Can you pick me up at the airport?
Yes! For an extra fee, you can arrange to be picked up at the Managua airport and driven directly to the school. You should plan to arrive during the day if you want to take advantage of our chauffer service.

Is there Internet access in San Juan del Sur?
Yes there are a variety of Internet cafes that offer computer, phone and fax services. There is also wireless internet access at the school (students must use their own laptop). If you have more specific questions please contact us by email.

How much money should I take with me?
You do not need to bring a large amount of cash with you since there are ATMs and four banks in San Juan del Sur.

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