Spanish-Language Programs
If you're moving to Panama, or if you plan to stay for an extended time, you'll need to pick up the local lingo. The two top language-institute options offer very different programs for different kinds of people. Classes are either one-on-one or in groups -- obviously the keen traveler with time restraints will want private classes.
Spanish Panama is a Canadian-directed school with certified bilingual professors, offering crash courses, private classes either at the school or in your hotel, residence, or business; and a month-long program that includes excursions around town to place yourself in real-life situations where Spanish is necessary. They also have cultural excursions and Latin dance classes. The Spanish Panama school classrooms are divided units within an old apartment building, and the ambience is folksy and very friendly. They offer three housing options that are suitable for all types. First, there are homestays with Panamanian families. Second, their Carmen's Realty finds furnished apartments in the area (basic, at $500/£250 a month, to luxury, at $1,300/£650 a month) that can be rented weekly and monthly. Finally, Anita's Inn hostel, on the second floor above the school, has shared rooms for $10 (£5), and a few private rooms for $15 to $30 (£7.50-£15) per night; most have shared bathrooms. The hostel hosts fun but mature guests who are serious about learning. Their "Just the Classes" one-on-one program is 16 hours per week for $199 (£100), and you decide when and where. Their month-long program costs $775 (£388), with around a total of 50 hours of instruction. Spanish Panama is centrally located on Calle 2a Norte, off Vía Argentina (tel. 213-3121; www.spanishpanama.com).
Your second option is ILISA Language School, with offices in the more austere environment of the so-called "City of Knowledge," the old U.S. Army base in Clayton, which is being renovated as a center for academic organizations. ILISA is a Costa Rican company and a newcomer to Panama; they have group and private classes in a more polished, corporate-style classroom. Their four-person classes are the most popular, and run from 8am to noon, with afternoon activities like coffee chats and excursions; their four-person "Plus" course is the same but with an additional 2-hour private tutoring session in the afternoon. Private, 4-hour lessons cost $655 (£328) for 5 days; $885 (£443) for 6 hours a day. Groups of four cost $430 (£215) per person for 20 hours of instruction per week. ILISA offers homestays, furnished apartment rentals, and two nearby guesthouses with shared rooms starting at $14 (£7) a night, and private double rooms for $45 (£23). The school is at Calle Gonzalo Crance 8 (tel. 317-1011, or 800/454-7248 in the U.S. and Canada; www.ilisa.com).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
