Studying Spanish in Gran Canaria 🇪🇸🇪🇺

01/12/18 04:24

In the late summer of 2015, I embarked on an exciting and purposeful trip to the Spanish island of Gran Canaria, located off the coast of West Africa. This journey wasn’t just about exploring the island’s beauty; it was also a step in advancing my professional and personal development.

A New Language Challenge

At the time, ECHO introduced new requirements for its staff, mandating proficiency in at least two of its working languages: English, French, Spanish, Arabic, or Russian. While my proficiency in English was strong, I chose Spanish as my second language. Given my interest in Latin culture and a budding affinity for the language, it felt like a natural choice.

I began my intensive Spanish lessons in Bangkok, guided by my incredible Mexican teacher, Charly, whose engaging methods made learning a joy. To accelerate my progress, I decided to immerse myself further by taking an intensive Spanish course in a Spanish-speaking region. This led me to Gran Canaria—a destination that not only offered a rich linguistic environment but also the allure of its stunning landscapes and culture.

Gran Canaria: A Perfect Balance of Study and Exploration

For 10 days, I stayed in Maspalomas, where I balanced my time between rigorous Spanish classes and exploring the island. The combination of structured learning and real-world practice was incredibly effective in boosting my confidence and fluency in Spanish during the initial stages.

Exploring the Island’s Charms

Gran Canaria revealed itself as a destination of endless diversity and beauty.
• Maspalomas: Known for its golden dunes, stunning beaches, and vibrant resort life, this was the perfect base to unwind after a day of language learning.
• Las Palmas: The capital of Gran Canaria offered a wonderful blend of history and modernity. Walking through the streets of Vegueta, the old town, I was fascinated by its rich colonial past and charming architecture.
• Puerto de Mogán: Often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its picturesque canals, this town was a delight to explore. The waterfront and marina were perfect for enjoying a relaxing afternoon.
• Arucas and Teror: Two of the island’s most charming towns. Arucas, with its iconic Parroquia de San Juan Bautista (a neo-Gothic church), and Teror, with its traditional Canarian houses and rich cultural heritage, offered a glimpse into Gran Canaria’s authentic way of life.
• Beyond the Towns: I ventured into smaller villages and rural landscapes, marvelling at the island’s volcanic terrain, lush greenery, and rugged coastlines.

A Holiday with Purpose

This trip turned out to be a pivotal moment in my language-learning journey. Today, as I speak Spanish fluently, I often reflect on those 10 days in Gran Canaria as a defining period. The combination of structured study and real-life practice proved invaluable, laying the foundation for my linguistic confidence.

Beyond the practical benefits, the experience left me with wonderful memories of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly people. It was a busy and fulfilling holiday, blending professional growth with the joy of discovery—a perfect way to embrace the learning process while enjoying the charm of Spain’s Canary Islands.

Click here to access the album.

Picture galleries

Studying Spanish in Gran Canaria 🇪🇸🇪🇺