Here are some popular questions about Spanish immersion experiences in Estelí.
How can I get to the school?
Most students fly into Managua. From there, you have several options to get to Estelí:
The least expensive (and perhaps most interesting) is an express bus. From the airport, take a taxi to the Managua bus station. Express buses to Estelí leave there every 30 minutes and cost about $3. The ride typically takes 3 hours. From the Estelí bus station, take a taxi to your homestay. Total cost for this memorable adventure should be less than $10.
Or you can arrange a private car. The driver will wait for you at the airport and take you directly to your homestay in Estelí. The trip will likely take 2 hrs 25 minutes and cost $70-80. Students who have arranged rides with Nicaroads (http://nicaroads.com/) speak well of their service and enjoy their conversations with the drivers. This is the fastest and most convenient.
You can also rent a car or take a taxi (but agree on a price before getting in).
If you arrive in Managua in the evening we recommend staying one night in a hotel and traveling to Estelí the next day. The last express bus from Managua to Estelí leaves at 5:15 pm.
How far will my homestay be from the school?
You’ll live within walking distance or a short bus ride from the school and city center.
How will I get to school each day?
Most students walk to class. The weather is typically nice in Estelí and it’s a pleasant walk in town. Taxis are also available, some students ride bicycles, and some go by bus.
Will I be given a key to my homestay and bedroom?
Your host family will give you a key for the main entrance of the house. Normally bedrooms don’t have locks. Your items should be safe with host families, but you might want to use a luggage lock to secure valuables in your suitcase.
Will I be able to wash clothes?
Washing clothes is not included in the price of a homestay, but there are inexpensive laundromats and cleaners in the city center.
If I don’t like my host family, can I change?
We will always try to accommodate you. In most cases we can arrange this, but at busy times of the year, there might be a wait.
How long does a complete course take?
You are free to choose the duration of your course. You can book from a week up to six months or longer.
Is the school open on holidays?
The school is open on most holidays.
When can I start?
Courses usually begin on Mondays and end on Fridays and accommodations are booked from Sunday to Saturday.
How can I book a course?
Please contact us by email (rafael(at)spanishschoolnicaragua.com), send us a message on Skype (Spanish School Nicaragua), or use the contact page on this website. We’ll get back to you within 12 hours.
Can I book a course for next week?
We can probably accommodate you but, of course, it depends on the availability of our Spanish teachers and families. Send us a message and we’ll try to work it out.
Do I need a visa to come to your country?
If you are a citizen of Europe, the United States, or some countries of Asia, you don’t need a visa. You can stay in Nicaragua 90 days with an option to extend 90 more days.
Does Spanish School Nicaragua charge an enrollment fee?
No. Enrolment is totally free.
How can I pay?
There are several methods of payment but the most popular is by Xoom (PayPal), or WorldRemit. Instructions are here.
What is the duration of a lesson?
Spanish lessons at Spanish School Nicaragua are 60 minutes minimum up to several hours or more.
Will I get a certificate from the School?
Yes, at the end of your course you’ll receive a certificate of completion.
What can I do if the level of my group is too high or too low?
Simply tell us. We can switch you to another group or you can study one-on-one if you desire.
Transportation
The bus station in Managua for Estelí is located at the Market Mayoreo.
There you’ll find two types of buses: The “Ordinario” buses and the “Express Buses”. Ordinary buses usually are old Bluebird School buses (“chicken buses”) which means no luggage compartment. Express buses are faster, more comfortable, and have a separate luggage compartment. Sometimes they also show a movie while traveling to Estelí.
You may be issued a paper “ticket” on buses to Estelí. Don’t lose it or you might be charged again.
It is best to be there one hour in advance to be sure you get a ticket.
Bus stations in Nicaragua are often huge, chaotic bus lots next to markets where many vendors are yelling. It may seem difficult to navigate, particularly if you don’t speak much Spanish. But don’t worry! There are always guys yelling “Estelí, Estelí, Estelí”. Just ask them for a ticket. It’s best to pay with Nicaraguan córdobas if you have them.
Taking a bus is an adventure. You might find taking a taxi between cities a more comfortable (and faster) option.
ATM machines in Estelí
There are ATM machines in the city center where your ATM card should work. Almost all dispense Nicaraguan córdobas, and this is usually the best exchange rate available.
Be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans so your debit or credit card works in Nicaragua. (If you forget before you leave, you can often do it on the bank’s website.)
We’re looking forward to meeting you and taking your Spanish to a new level.