Frequently Asked Questions to Apoyo Spanish School-Nicaragua
FUNDECI/GAIA
Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve, Nicaragua
Over the years, lots of people have asked questions before their trip to study Spanish in Nicaragua. Here, we try to answer the most frequently asked questions that we have received at Apoyo Spanish School.
What should I bring with me?
A Spanish-(insert your native language here) dictionary.
A notebook for taking class notes (and a few pens).
Light, comfortable clothes for warm weather.
A hat.
Insect repellent (10% or more DEET is effective).
Sunscreen (higher SPF is better).
Flip-flop sandals.
Shoes for hiking.
Binoculars.
Shoes for wading.
Camera and charger or extra batteries.
Your favorite field guide of the birds or nature in the area (ask us if you would like recommendations.)
Swimming apparel.
Snorkel, mask and fins.
A smile!
How do different country accents and customs affect my learning?
The region of origin of a Spanish speaker is usually easily detected by his accent and choice of words. Although a few members of the Academia Real might disagree, differences are not much more than that, each being most useful where it is spoken. By learning to speak Spanish from different geographic locations, one will learn to understand the different variants and also will develop a more general language which transcends localities.
What if my Spanish teacher does not speak English?
The current instruction strategy in teaching a foreign language is to speak only the language taught, not the language of the student, in the classroom. Both English and Spanish instruction techniques are most effective in this way. A good teacher will know how to get the students to communicate and begin learning, without using any language but Spanish.
What vaccinations and health risk issues should be attended before
visiting Nicaragua?
Each individual needs to make an informed and autonomous decision about vaccines and health issues, with their personal doctor. The US State Department carries health and safety risk information on its website for each country.
How does one pay for purchases in Nicaragua?
In major cities, franchise businesses such as supermarkets and gas stations accept US and European credit cards and currency conversion is automatic. There are ATM machines wherever a BAC branch office is nearby which work with VISA and MASTERCARD. There are cash machines in Masaya and in Granada, but not in Apoyo, so get your cash before you depart these cities! No specific need for córdobas, however: Dollars are generally acceptable for payment in cash, as well.
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Students and staff of Apoyo Spanish School visiting
the Catarina overlook, with Laguna de Apoyo below.
The nearby town San Juan de Oriente is a famous center for ceramic pottery,
maintaining its precolombian culture in designs and technologies. Spanish students
regularly visit the potters of San Juan de Oriente.
The environment of Laguna de Apoyo is natural and nearly unspoiled. Students of Apoyo Spanish School
hike the forests of Laguna de Apoyo Nature Reserve and see wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and
butterflies. Photo Jeffrey McCrary
Children living in Lake Apoyo Nature Reserve attend school. FUNDECI/GAIA supports local schools
with materials and educational opportunities. 
The natural beauty of Laguna de Apoyo is unsurpassed in Central America. Apoyo Cultural Center and Apoyo
Spanish School work to keep it wild!
Laguna de Apoyo is the best place in Nicaragua for swimming, day and night. The water is always warm and
clear.
The Apoyo Spanish School facilities on the edge of Lake Apoyo are integrated into the environment.
Monkeys are often in the trees overhead.
Apoyo Spanish School is along the lake, below this scenic view of Laguna de Apoyo from Catarina.
Granada can be seen in the distance, across the lake.