On-site Resources
El Nomad provides program participants with a wide array of on-site resources, including:
- A homestay with a local family (single occupancy unless double is requested)
- Group Spanish language or culture courses at the Universidad de Cuenca
- A transcript from the university in Cuenca
- Transfers to and from the airport in Cuenca
- Extensive on-site orientation by El Nomad staff (full day orientation)
- Orientation at the university (partial day only)
- A city tour of Cuenca
- Group lunch at a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant as part of the orientation
- An excursion to Cajas National Park
- An excursion to Ingapirca Ruins
- Free or low cost cultural activities several days per week coordinated by El Nomad (this could include such options as cultural activities held in the city center, cooking classes in the El Nomad center, language exchange between Ecuadorian and US students, Latin American movie night at the El Nomad center with snacks, etc.)
- Travel assistance and cultural tourism package options through the El Nomad office
- 24-hour emergency number in Ecuador
- Bi-lingual on-site staff who are available 24-hours a day
- Optional extra-curricular activities including volunteer and internship opportunities
- Cell phone rental with $10 of credit
- A bus pass with 14 rides per week for the duration of their program An El Nomad student identification card
- In country visa assistance (if needed)
Volunteering
El Nomad prides itself on offering opportunities to its program participants to actively engage with the community around them. This is done through volunteer positions that are available with any of our language and culture programs. Organization types range from orphanages and schools, to farms and animal rehabilitation centers, to social justice and human rights groups. We can place students from most areas of study with something in their field. We meet with all volunteers one day a week (as a group) to touch base and ensure that they are all doing well in their placements and learning from their experiences.
This program is in addition to normal coursework. The number of hours per week spent volunteering will vary depending on the organization that you are placed with, and your course schedules.
Note
We want to make sure that your experience in Ecuador is exactly what you would like it to be, so our entire selection of programs can be customized. We are happy to change the options included in your program or customize dates to fit your needs. Please do not hesitate to contact us and let us know what you’re looking for.
