Portuguese Course in Maceió

Maceió is a port city located on the east coast of Brazil and is about a two hour flight north of Rio. It is the state capital of Alagoas and is best known for its tropical lagoons and beaches. Because Maceió is largely undiscovered by tourists, it is a great destination for language students.

Language Programme

• Maximum number of students per class - 5.
• Average number of students per class - 3.
• Portuguese levels offered - 5 levels: from beginner to advanced.
• Teaching Method - Courses are focused on conversation with some writing assignments for homework. 95% of class time is conducted in Portuguese.
• Private Instruction - Available at extra cost.
• Arrival first day of class - Normal class time: 8 am.
• Placement test - On the first day of classes there is an oral, written and listening comprehension test.Orientation - On the first day you will be given detailed information on the school and city.Class schedule - 8am-noon.Organized activities - The school organises optional activities (at extra cost) such as museum visits as well as weekend excursions to the surrounding area.School Atmosphere
• Students' nationality - Mostly from US, Canada, Europe, Australia.
• Age group - Most students are university students, professionals and independent travellers.
• Facilities - The school is a bright modern house with an outdoor garden area. There are 12 classrooms and a fully equipped kitchen where cooking classes take place.
• Capacity - 50 students per day.

Accommodation

Homestays

• We can organise 3-4 star hotel accommodation for you as an alternative to staying with a family. Please enquire for prices. Budget accommodation can be organised locally.
• Distance to school - Most of the homes are within walking distance of the school.Number of students per home - Usually one, unless otherwise requested.
• Private or shared room - Private, unless otherwise requested.
• Meals included - Breakfast and dinner are provided by host family. (Lunch available at extra cost).
• Private bathroom - Available in some homestays.
• Extra homestay nights - It is best to arrive Sunday and depart Saturday from the host family. Anything outside of this time frame is considered extra homestay time.Laundry service - Available at most homestays.

Family Consideration

• One of the most important parts of your learning and cultural experience is the homestay.
• You will receive a key to the outside door and will be able to come and go as you please. You are not obliged to eat your meals with the family but you should notify them when you will not be eating at home.
• Your host family respects your beliefs and we ask that you show that same respect for their beliefs. It is a good idea to bring some pictures of family, friends, your house and even a map that shows where you live. These can be used to begin discussions.
• Notify the director of the school if you wish to change families (there is no charge for this).

Weather

Tropical climate with average temperature of 80 degrees. The rainy season is May-July.

Important advice - There can be problems with foreign cards in the bank ATMs. Check with your bank first if the card system is available in Macéio.