Spanish Language Schools in Quito, Ecuador

As a whole, Quito is a wonderful place to learn Spanish because the majority of its residents do not speak English. Even in the marketplaces, which are frequently buzzing with foreign tongues, English is seldom spoken.

Like any large city, there are a number of ways in which you can improve your language skills, ranging from university and language school classes, private tutoring and simply interacting with locals. When deciding which option best suits your needs, it is crucial to consider your budget, ideal level and timeframe.

Private Tutoring

The options for learning Spanish via classes are plentiful. You can do one-on-one lessons to optimize learning, and classes of a few students or more are also available. Private tutoring tends to be a bit pricier, but you can always negotiate with your tutor.

Intercambios

Intercambios, or language exchanges are a more laid back choice, allowing you to fraternize with locals and have fun doing it. Let’s face it: cervezas make speaking a new language much easier. And, they’re free… well, besides the cost of cerveza.

Private Language School

If you are looking for a more structured option, consider taking classes at a language school. You can enroll for a semester or even a few weeks, depending on the program. There are even options to travel within Ecuador while taking courses, or live with a homestay. The choice is yours!

This city has it all: scrumptious eats for the foodies, incredible views for the nature lovers, an interesting history for the history buffs and intricate architecture and churches for the photogs. What’s not to love?

Quito was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978 due to the pristine preservation of the old town. For the photographers, it is essential to meander the cobblestone streets and observe the antiquated buildings and magnificent churches.

There is no shortage of dreamy plazas, stately government establishments and traditional churches. The Basilica de Voto Nacional is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas and a must see. You can even climb to the top (though not for the faint of heart) for a sensational view of the city in the sky.

For the outdoorsy types, Quito is situated in the highlands of Ecuador and surrounded by majestic green and snowy mountains. In fact, if you have approximately three free hours, one can even hike the Pichincha volcano. A cable car is also available to maximize time. Just be careful with the altitude!

Highlights

• Since when? Quito was officially founded in 1534 with the arrival of the Spanish. However, it was around and kicking long before then, with the Quitu tribe dating back to the first millennium and, of course, as part of the prosperous Inca empire.
• Don’t miss… El mitad del mundo, or the center of the earth. Located just north of the city, it is worth a trip. I mean, how many people can say they have straddled the equator?
• YUM: A geographically diverse country, cuisine in Ecuador varies depending on location. Seeing as Quito is situated in the mountains, local gastronomy often includes different meats, rice, corn and potatoes. ¡Ñam!

Cultural Immersion/Extracurricular Activities

Deeply influenced by its indigenous background, Quito’s culture is known for its art and music. If you love bright colors and images of people, flowers and the sea, look no further.

The indigenous art of the Tigua people is particularly beautiful and unique to Ecuador. There are many talented artisans all over the country, and you can purchase many beautiful goods at local markets in Quito.

And then there’s Pasillo, the traditional national music, originally associated with Ecuadorian independence. In Quito, there is always art that needs appreciating and music that needs dancing feet!

As luck would have it, Quito is cheap and the national currency is the dollar. This city is unbeatable seeing as you do not have to convert currencies and you won’t walk away with empty pockets.

Renting an apartment in the city center can range anywhere from $200 to $500 dollars per month, depending on if you choose to live alone or with roommates. On average, a swanky 3-course meal with your beau would cost $20. Not a bad place for a date. A one-way ticket for the bus averages at $.25 cents per ride, making navigating the city relatively simple. Budgeting in Quito is clearly doable. You might even be able to save while living the dream!

However, if you are finding yourself short on cash and looking for a quick and easy way to make dinero, your native English skills will likely be your best asset. Get creative; hanging up flyers at local universities and attending language exchanges are a good place to start.

Scholarships

While living in Quito is cheap, there are still expenses. The good news is that there are opportunities for scholarships if you look for them. Here are a few good places to start:

Study Abroad Funding is a great search engine to use if you are interested in studying a specific subject. Scholarships and terms vary.

The Gilman Scholarship is available for undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding. Scholarships can be awarded up to $5,000.

Boren Awards are available for both undergraduate and graduate students interested in studying a language in a more remote area. Funding can be up to $20,000 per year.

If you're still in school, you can also look into scholarship opportunities at your institution.