Habla Ya Spanish Immersion, Eco-Tours, Boquete
Habla Ya Spanish Immersion, Eco-Tours, Boquete
Habla Ya Spanish Immersion, Eco-Tours, Boquete
5
08:00 - 17:00
Monday
08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:00
Thursday
08:00 - 17:00
Friday
08:00 - 17:00
Saturday
09:00 - 15:00
Sunday
13:00 - 17:00
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About
Why just learn Spanish? Live your Spanish learning experience! Learn Spanish in Boquete, a charming town and a dream setting place full of friendly faces and exciting adventures. Have the time of your life and live the most amazing Spanish learning experience! Habla Ya Panama Spanish School, Panama's premier Spanish school, is one of the top specialist Spanish training institutions in Central America and one of the leading providers of Spanish courses in Latin America.
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Habla Ya Spanish Immersion, Eco-Tours, Boquete
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5.0
486 reviews
Excellent
425
Very good
48
Average
9
Poor
2
Terrible
2
krawner
Chicago, IL2,015 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
Excellent Spanish immersion experience. Did group and private classes. The group classes (4 hrs long in afternoons) were organized/ structured and followed a grammar workbook. Also supplemented with short films, student presentations, and games. Intermediate group class had 4 students and the beginner class had 5 students. Private instruction was tailored toward whatever you wanted. Instructors were fun, engaging, and good at teaching / making corrections. Alex, Leidys, and Erian are the best! The building is centrally located in town with clean bathrooms, a couch, outdoor table, and free WiFi. Classroom has a fan but no A/C. Homestay varies. Mine was out of town and required a daily taxi ride on the highway which was a bit of a hassle. (Expect basic living conditions with the occasional cockroach/ scorpion). Boquete is a small town of 10,000 people but does have a decent American expat population. There are 2 large supermarkets and plenty of good restaurants (Sugar and Spice, Boquete Sandwich Shop, Sabroson, etc). Can sign up for activities (hanging bridges, volcano hike, coffee plantation, waterfall hike) through Boquete outdoor adventures which is in the same shopping plaza.
TIPS:SIM cards via Movistar are available in town for $5 USD per week with data/ text / calls. This is much better than Panama City airport which will charge you $20 / week with Digicel which is more expensive and has less coverage. Bring your own towel (my homestay didn’t provide one). Don’t hike alone in the area as there have been some “incidents”. Panamanians speak fast and cut off the ends of their words. Bring a gift from your hometown for the host family. There is a Tuesday gringo market in Boquete near the BCP. It rains sometimes so bring a raincoat or umbrella.
TIPS:SIM cards via Movistar are available in town for $5 USD per week with data/ text / calls. This is much better than Panama City airport which will charge you $20 / week with Digicel which is more expensive and has less coverage. Bring your own towel (my homestay didn’t provide one). Don’t hike alone in the area as there have been some “incidents”. Panamanians speak fast and cut off the ends of their words. Bring a gift from your hometown for the host family. There is a Tuesday gringo market in Boquete near the BCP. It rains sometimes so bring a raincoat or umbrella.
Written 21 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chad B
Utah1 contribution
Mar 2020
Virtual classes are very good!
I am a beginner with Spanish and have been taking a virtual class with Habla Ya for almost 2 months now. I was planning to do a 3-week class in Panama, however since that is not currently possible with the COVID-19 virus situation, I chose to do virtual classes. Since I'm not spending the extra money on flights, food, lodging, I've used that to extend my classes several months, which is so nice. I'm getting so much out of it.
We use Zoom and it works better than I expected. Even though I am in the United States, the conversation is very clear and there is no lag.
It’s amazing how easy it is and how much I’ve learned. I have to give most of the credit to the instructor (Leidys) who is very good at speaking to me in very simple Spanish, using the vocabulary I’ve learned so far, and yet making it feel natural. We spend a lot of time conversing and she makes me feel like I’ve almost mastered the Spanish language. She is very fun and is enjoyable to learn from.
The class is well structured, and we use a book that I was able to print, and I write in it every day. Also, I normally get an email during class with extra information and homework pages. It’s well planned.
I couldn’t be happier with these classes.
I am a beginner with Spanish and have been taking a virtual class with Habla Ya for almost 2 months now. I was planning to do a 3-week class in Panama, however since that is not currently possible with the COVID-19 virus situation, I chose to do virtual classes. Since I'm not spending the extra money on flights, food, lodging, I've used that to extend my classes several months, which is so nice. I'm getting so much out of it.
We use Zoom and it works better than I expected. Even though I am in the United States, the conversation is very clear and there is no lag.
It’s amazing how easy it is and how much I’ve learned. I have to give most of the credit to the instructor (Leidys) who is very good at speaking to me in very simple Spanish, using the vocabulary I’ve learned so far, and yet making it feel natural. We spend a lot of time conversing and she makes me feel like I’ve almost mastered the Spanish language. She is very fun and is enjoyable to learn from.
The class is well structured, and we use a book that I was able to print, and I write in it every day. Also, I normally get an email during class with extra information and homework pages. It’s well planned.
I couldn’t be happier with these classes.
Written 2 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kendra G
2 contributions
Feb 2020
Our family spent 2 weeks studying Spanish at HablaYa in Boquete Panama. Our daughters had a private group class as well as my husband and I. The type of instruction, pace and personalization was superb. We had 2 different teachers and both were exceptional. Our teacher the second week was Alex and he was fun to work with and we learned so much! He planned excursions for some of our time together and that helped tremendously with learning how to be more conversational in Spanish. Highly recommend.
Written 24 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cheryl G
1 contribution
Jan 2020
The group classes at Habla Ya Boquete are small which allow for excellent attention to each student. My teacher, Leidys Pitti, was so kind and generous with her time. She is a skilled and patient teacher and makes each student feel special and is very encouraging to each student. She provided many learning support tools in the form of word games, interesting themes to increase conversational skills as well as a foundation in Spanish grammar. The entire experience at Habla Ya was well worth the time and I feel more competent to speak and less timid to do so now. Thank you Habla Ya and Leidys. Muchas gracias por todo! Cheryl G
Written 4 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Madeline F
2 contributions
Apr 2020
I was looking into visiting Panama to take classes with Habla Ya, but then covid-19 made that impossible. But, Habla Ya quickly offered online classes via Zoom, and I am so glad I signed up. I initially signed up for one week of group classes (4 hours/day), but decided to sign up for four more weeks of private lessons (2 hours/day) because I enjoyed studying with my instructor, Kimberley, so much. Taking private classes with Kimberley was great because she tailored everything for my level and preferences. It was fun to work on conversational skills by talking about everything going on in Panama and the U.S. and the world. Talking to Kimberley and hearing about Panama made me sad to miss the opportunity to visit, but it was still a fun way to learn about the country while working on my Spanish.
Habla Ya quickly adapted to online classes and was great with support and communication.
I highly recommend signing up for classes while quarantined, it was always the highlight of my day.
Habla Ya quickly adapted to online classes and was great with support and communication.
I highly recommend signing up for classes while quarantined, it was always the highlight of my day.
Written 11 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sabina M
1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Solo
I spent three weeks in Boquete with Habla Ya. I came to Panama with no Spanish language experience and left with the confidence to try speaking and a greater ability to comprehend the spoken language.
My teacher Erian was great at explaining concepts and the classes are kept small and the conversations interesting and useful.
I’m excited to continue practicing and learning throughout the year and look forward to visiting HablaYa again in the future.
My teacher Erian was great at explaining concepts and the classes are kept small and the conversations interesting and useful.
I’m excited to continue practicing and learning throughout the year and look forward to visiting HablaYa again in the future.
Written 4 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Belinda
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • Solo
I spent a month studying Spanish 20 hours/week in individual classes with the teacher Alex Cano. I'm a language teacher with 22 years of experience so I know what good teaching looks like. Alex was fantastic in every way, making classes varied and interesting. I learned a huge amount in a month.
Written 7 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue E
2 contributions
Mar 2020
I had private classes with Alex for 2 weeks, Alex did a wonderful job of finding information about my specific interests to make the time in class extremely productive for me. Alex also did a great job of bringing my grammatical errors to my attention so I could be more deliberate about speaking correctly. I would recommend Alex as a professor to anyone .
Sue Hall
Sue Hall
Written 7 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jon G
Boquete, Panama1 contribution
Jan 2020
I was an entry level student at Habla Ya in Boquete from January 20 – 31 2020. My professor, Kimberly Rodriguez, was extremely organized, clear, and cheerful. Daily 4-hour classes moved quickly and assignments for home study were logical and manageable. Kim made this very apprehensive student comfortable and eager to continue my Spanish studies. I can’t thank her enough for a great classroom experience!
Written 13 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mish
Kansas City, MO11 contributions
May 2020
During the Covid 19 quarantine, I decided to spend my time taking Spanish classes. I found Habla Ya and started in May. It has been wonderful. I am working with Alexander Cano, who is patient, kind, helpful, and fun to talk to. I have learned a lot and am progressing steadily. I highly recommend Habla Ya and Alexander Cano!
Written 1 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Could you tell me how you got to Boquete? Did you fly into Panama City? then fly to David? take a bus? etc.
Muchas gracias!
Written 12 January 2020
I flew to David via Panama City. Habla Ya arranged a taxi to meet me at the David airport which took me to my homestay.
Written 21 January 2020
I like to combine my Spanish language with bird watching and photography. Are there places where you can walk (from town) and do this type of activity? Also, would I feel safe lugging my expensive camera gear in the parks and/or forests there?
Written 8 December 2019
Yes, there are many good birdwatching places near town, but I would suggest that you take a short bus or taxi ride to access the trails closer to the rainforest. Less than $5 will get you to some great spots. And there should not be any problems with your equipment. I could put you in touch with some other birders if you want, just contact again about a week prior to your arrival.
Written 9 December 2019
Prices differ especially if you buy multiple weeks. It is total immersion from the get go, Your instructor will not speak English though they understand it well. And discounts as well if you and another sign up together
Written 14 October 2018
What age are students typically? I’m 18 yrs old and wondering if that’s too young to do this program
Written 29 January 2018
I’d say it depends on the location you choose. I was together with an 19 year old in Boquete but on average the age was around 30 at that time (low season).
Written 4 February 2018
I am wondering what you would recommend for my daughter and I for 3 weeks of spanish immersion. We did 3 weeks in Costa Rica three years ago and lived with a family. We will plan to do that again. What I am wondering is: should we stay the entire 3 weeks studying in Boquete or should we do 2 weeks there & 1 week in another city? When we complete the 3 week program, we will travel for one more week. Thanks.
Alison
Written 1 January 2018
I studied at both the Boquete and Panamá City locations. I am not a fan of big cities and if I could do it again I would skip spending an entire week in Panama City. A couple days to see the local attractions will suffice. The campus in Panama City is not as nice as the campus in Boquete, although the teachers are top-notch. I haven’t been to Bocas but have heard good things about it and plan on going there in the future. How about 2 weeks Boquete and 1 week Bocas!
Written 29 January 2018
I have very much enjoyed my classes in Boquete. Is it appropriate to tip or provide a gift to a teacher?
Written 30 March 2017
Sure it is. Your teacher would really appreciate it =).
Habla Ya is about Language Travel. If you tip a guide who gave you a tour for 4 hours, why wouldn't you tip a teacher who has taught you for 4 weeks?
Glad you enjoyed!
Written 22 June 2017
What are parents experience who have sent young teens (14 year olds) for emersion over the course of 2-3 week period?
Written 31 October 2016
Hello - my 14-year-old daughter went to Habla Ya in Boquete by herself last summer, flying from Boston. We weren't sure what to expect, so we initially booked her for 3 weeks. It was such a fantastic experience that I changed her return flight and she stayed for 6 weeks! She had a variety of teachers, some most definitely better than others, but overall we were happy with the school. We were also quite happy with the family she was placed with; they seemed to genuinely care for my daughter and were always keeping an eye on her well-being; especially at the beginning (the first day or two away from home in a foreign country where she didn't speak ANY Spanish were a little rocky - but she adjusted fast). Boquete is a beautiful area, and there is plenty to do. My daughter had a great time making friends (of all ages) with other students from around the world, and even with some of the locals in town. She went to Habla Ya not knowing any Spanish, and she came home able to speak at a basic level. For another child that already knows some Spanish from school, I would think progress would be even better. The trip was fantastic for her self-confidence, independence, and maturity, and it definitely expanded her world-view. I highly recommend it.
Written 23 November 2016
My husband and I are trying to decide whether to stay with a host family while studying for 2 weeks with Habla Ya. We could do just one week or 2 with them. What were people's experiences?
Written 8 October 2016
We stayed 2 weeks at Isla Verde and enjoyed it very much. The rates for accom through Habla Ya are excellent.
Written 8 October 2016
i'm looking to send my teen daughter for an immersion program this summer. can anyone give me some feed back concerning the teens program? thank you.
Written 24 December 2015
Hello - my 14-year-old daughter went to Habla Ya in Boquete by herself last summer, flying from Boston. We weren't sure what to expect, so we initially booked her for 3 weeks. It was such a fantastic experience that I changed her return flight and she stayed for 6 weeks! She had a variety of teachers, some most definitely better than others, but overall we were happy with the school. We were also quite happy with the family she was placed with; they seemed to genuinely care for my daughter and were always keeping an eye on her well-being; especially at the beginning (the first day or two away from home in a foreign country where she didn't speak ANY Spanish were a little rocky - but she adjusted fast). Boquete is a beautiful area, and there is plenty to do. My daughter had a great time making friends (of all ages) with other students from around the world, and even with some of the locals in town. She went to Habla Ya not knowing any Spanish, and she came home able to speak at a basic level. For another child that already knows some Spanish from school, I would think progress would be even better. The trip was fantastic for her self-confidence, independence, and maturity, and it definitely expanded her world-view. I highly recommend it.
Written 23 November 2016
I would like to know the minimum recommended time to attend with a home stay for a newbie to learn basic communication for travel in Panama. Would 2-3 weeks be advantageous or just a beginning?
Written 13 February 2015
¡Hola!
If you don't know any Spanish at all, 3 weeks should be enough for you to complete the "Survival" level (A1) and have most of the tools you need to continue your travels and get by covering your basic needs in Spanish.
By doing a home stay, the immersion process will also get you to move along further. I'd recommend 3 weeks!
If you're curious about exactly what you'll be able to do in Spanish, google "a1 level functional content Spanish"
¡Buena suerte!
Written 18 February 2015
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