Rio de Janeiro enjoys one of the most magnificent settings for a city in the world. Rio is sprawled along a narrow strip of land between mountains with tropical vegetation and grey rock expanses on one side, and a dark blue sea studded with rocky islands on the other. Language travellers in Rio can enjoy the best of both worlds - the big city atmosphere along with the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

Language Programme

• Maximum number of students per class - 5.
• Average number of students per class - 2.
• Portuguese levels offered - 5 levels: from beginner to advanced.
• Teaching Method - The direct method. The target language is used 100% of the time in class. Students are encouraged to speak at least 60% of the time in class. Thinking in the target language is a key factor in this approach. Vocabulary is related to real life situations. No translation is used. Little or no note taking in class is used.
• Private Instruction - Available at extra cost. Private classes may be scheduled for any time between 7 am and 8:30 pm.
• Arrival first day of class - Normal class time: 9 am.
• Placement test - On the first day of classes there is an oral and written test.
• Class schedule - Low season 9am-1pm. During the high season there is also an afternoon session starting at 1:30pm.

School Atmosphere

• Students' nationality - Mostly from USA, Canada, Europe, Australia.
• Age group - Most students are university students, professionals and independent travellers.
• Facilities - The school has comfortably furnished, well-equipped classrooms and is is located in the business area of Rio. It is also close to the historical centre and museums.
• Capacity - 30 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 - Many of the homes are within walking distance from school. The rest are a 20 minute bus or tube ride. When the school is full, homes can be 50-60 minutes away but are by Rio's most beautiful beach.
• Number of students per home - One, unless otherwise requested.
• Private or shared room - Private, unless otherwise requested.
• Meals included - Breakfast and dinner is provided by the host family.
• 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 - Students have access to laundry facilities at the homestay.
• Airport pick-up service is included if staying with a family.

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. Laundry service is included. You will have access to the family's washing machine and may do your own laundry. 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

Sub-tropical climate with hot humid weather November - March. April to October are cooler and drier.

Important advice

Be aware that pick pocketing, bag and jewellery snatching is not uncommon in Rio. Be aware of where you should and shouldn't walk at night.