I did extensive research on Spanish classes when I first moved to Lima. I read reviews; I compared prices; I talked to friends, and I sat in on classes.
Since I was on reporting trips every other week and learning a lot on the road, I didn’t end up taking a class. BUT, perhaps you can benefit from my many hours of research:
ICPNA
A friend of mine swears by these classes. He’s says they’re quick, informative and, most importantly, effective. He’s been going for about a year now, I believe, and loves it. This one ended up being way too far away from my house to consider as an option, but check it out!
Hispana Spanish Language School
I would highly recommend Hispana Spanish Language School. The staff were very efficient, helpful and approachable. The professor was a woman from Cusco, and the lesson plan doubled as a Peruvian culture course. We learned learned about politics, Lima’s landmarks and foods. The curriculum was tough—there were often words I didn’t understand—but it’s a friendly atmosphere, and the professor welcomed my questions. I learned quite a bit from just one class, and, if I’d had time, I would’ve signed up for courses here.
ECELA Spanish
This school is more expensive than the others I looked at. They also expected me to pay in U.S. dollars, which is a bad deal 1. Because I need U.S. dollars to travel 2. Because the exchange rate is forever growing in North America’s favor. However, their customer service is amazing. They got back to me very quickly and answered all my questions, which often doesn’t happen here. And, if you sign up for their mailing list, they frequently offer discounts.
El Sol
A friend recommended this organization, but I didn’t have a good experience with the staff. They weren’t friendly or helpful, and they insisted on placing me in a Beginner class. When I explained (in Spanish) that I know numbers, colors, verbs, etc., they didn’t listen. So I sat in on a class and wasn’t impressed by their teaching style. The class itself wasn’t very structured, and I felt like the professor (a very nice individual!) took things too slowly, wasting time. I could’ve bumped myself up a level and taken classes in Intermediate, but meh.
In summary: I’d recommend going with Hispana or ICPNA. Enjoy!
Hi Mollie,
I am the co-director of the El Sol Spanish School in Lima, and I found your blog post while cruising the web. Frankly, the experience you write about really surprises me since we are very careful when placing students: new arrivals normally write a placement test and undergo a verbal interview. I’d like to do a bit more research into your experience in order to see who might have been involved in placing you. That said, I can’t find any record of you having studied at El Sol. Can you please let me know the dates you were here? If there was a glitch in the process, I’d like to correct it.
Thanks. I look forward to hearing from you.
Alan La Rue
Hi Alan! I decided not to study at El Sol after my experience auditing the class and talking to staff. Thanks for reaching out. -Mollie
Good Morning Mollie,
My name is Ronald. I was wondering if you are still learning spanish. I’m studying English and I’d like to have a partner. I can help you with you spanish. If you are interested or you know someone who wants to learn spanish this is my e-mail one_beatle@hotmail.com Thank you for your time.
Best Regards,
Ronald Garay