Biarritz - Homestay/Residence Program for 12 - 18 year olds

Teen Summer 2008 - Biarritz, France

 

Location

At only 18 km from the border of Spain, the Biarritz region sits in the heart of Basque country and offers visitors a truly unique French experience.  The rich history is evident in the many historic buildings that dot the "old town" centers and the current status as one of the best surfing destinations in the world make this a popular location for surfers and water-sport enthusiasts world-wide.  This area is also home to luxury boutiques and cafes and although the total regional population is a modest 140,000 there is no shortage of things to do and places to see in this stylish and picturesque seaside region.

Program

The program takes place at a private school campus in Anglet about 20 minutes from the town centers of Biarritz and Bayonne.  It offers an ideal mix of French lessons and French culture, including exposure to cuisine, history and art as well as fashion and cinema.  It also offers the unique opportunity to meet and make friends with students from all over Europe, Latin America and Asia, making this a very popular program for North American students who are looking for a truly international experience.  And to top it off, the regions beach setting allows you to try optional water sports including sea kayaking and surfing*!

Optional Sports

With its location on the Atlantic ocean, this is a great place to learn how to surf.  The surf package includes 8x1.5 hour lessons spread out over a two week period.  The surfing schedule will be set a few weeks prior to the course start date. Lessons may be organized either on weekdays or weekends and may need to be changed due to tidal patterns.  Please see our price list for fees.

Teachers

The teachers are all native French speakers and teach in the local high schools during the school year.  They bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the classroom and design each lesson to focus on speaking and listening skills with appropriate attention paid to reading and writing.

Accommodation

Homestay

This is one of the best ways to practice the language and explore the culture of France in a comfortable and friendly setting! Homestay rooms are shared and breakfast and dinner are included in the price. Full board and/or a single room is optional and available for a supplement. - Review our price list for details. Homestay families generally live 5 to 30 minutes from the school in the communities of Biarritz, Bayonne or Anglet. Homestays give students a wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves within the culture of the Biarritz region while improving their conversational French. Students are expected to return to the homestay for dinner each night and spend the evening with their hosts. Students are welcome to take part in the school organized evening activities program, however, they are responsible for returning to their homestay by either public transit or taxi (extra cost) either on their own or with their roommate(s).

Residence

This is ideal for students who are looking for a very social program where they can interact around the clock with fellow students representing a variety of nationalities. The residence is a 5 minute walk to the classrooms and cafeteria and only 2 minutes from the beach.  Students are accommodated in double rooms, each equipped with a private bath and balcony with a seasview. Residence accommodation includes three meals per day in the school cafeteria. Girls and boys are accommodated separately. There are student lounges and an internet space where students can use computers to stay in touch with their family and friends. The campus facilities also include a swimming pool and tennis courts.

The following program features are included in the price:

• 15 or 20 lessons per week (3 or 4 lessons per day)
• Study materials
• Language level test on first day of classes
• Certificate of attendance
• 1 full-day excursion every 2 weeks
• 2 half-day excursions every 2 weeks
• Rich and varied daily cultural and sports activities
• Two meals per day in homestay. Three are also available - please see our price list.
• Three meals per day in residence
• Return airport or train station transfer for Biarritz
• Comprehensive Medical & Travel Insurance.

For additional information or to book this program please call us toll free 1 888 386 1411