Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can sign up for an immersion programme?
Anyone over the age of 18 years; all nationalities are welcome.
Minors may participate in our immersion programmes if the application is filled out by a parent/legal guardian and a waiver agreement is signed. Also, minors can travel with their own chaperone or in some cases, pay to have a chaperone with them in the country of destination.
Q: I don't speak the language at all. Will that be a problem?
Not at all! Our programmes are open to all language levels, are based in major cosmopolitan cities and our host families are used to accommodating international travellers with varying language levels. However some programmes (in France, for eg.) might have specific start dates for beginner-level group classes.
Tip: There is the option of reserving programme add-ons such as chaperoning, to ensure that all goes well. Speak to us today about personalising your trip.
Q: Can I participate even if I have never travelled before?
Certainly. We aim to make our immersion programmes accessible to all, including first-time travellers. We offer support before and during the stay; and offer add-on services such as chaperoning so that participants can feel at ease throughout their stay.
Tip: Most of our first-time travellers participate in our group summer immersion programmes, for added confidence.
Q: What does chaperoning involve?
By choosing the chaperone add-on service, participants will benefit from the physical presence of a local to assist them during their stay. This service can be requested for airport assistance (being escorted to/from the airport to/from the host family or for local transfers pertaining to the programme).
Q: What if I need a visa?
All our immersion programmes include programme preparation and programme support. This includes support for visa applications for any one of our destination countries (France, Spain, Jamaica, Cuba, Panama, China, Brazil), where applicable.
We provide documentation to assist in visa applications but advise our prospective participants to ensure that the other criteria are met in order to boost their chances of success in their applications. Interested persons are also encouraged to register well in advance in order to properly prepare for their visa application and to ensure that the processing time is sufficient.
Q: How do I sign up for an Immersion Programme?
Clients can sign up for an immerson programme directly on our website by filling out the form on the Registration page. A programme coordinator will contact you within 2 business days to get you started.
Q: I am still undecided. Can I speak with someone before registering?
Travelling is a big deal and we want everything to go smoothly and expectations met. We would love to have a chat with you and to answer any further questions. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Q: Are there programmes without language lessons?
Yes. We offer Host Family immersion experiences for select destinations. Speak to us about personalising the programme to your tastes and needs.
Q: Do all programmes come with excursions?
In order to diversify our offerings and to give participants some degree of flexibility, not all programmes include excursions. Check out our Free Brochure to see which programmes include excursions. A programme of activities will be given to each participant; and where applicable, excursions can be included as an add-on.
Q: Can I get refunded if I cancel my booking?
Our refund and cancellation policy is viewable on our website via the "Terms and Conditions" tab. Please read the terms and conditions thoroughly before registering and making a payment.
Q: Do payment plans exist?
Yes. As of March 2020, Payment can be spread out over several weeks or months via bank deposit (Jamaica only) or an online portal for instalment plans. Please see terms and conditions.