espanol en panama 2015
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EPA! ESPANOL
EN PANAMA
Catalogue 2015
EPA! Learn Spanish with the best
If you are ready to learn or vastly improve your Spanish-speaking skills, there is no better place to
do it than right here in one of Latin America’s most dynamic and beautiful countries.
Whether you are a beginner, experienced, or somewhere in between, EPA! Español en
Panamá has a selection of world-class programs and instructors eager to help you take your skills
to the next level.
So take a look around… and ask us today how to start your adventure right here in
Panama—a land rich in natural beauty, diverse cultures and cosmopolitan living.
Catalogue
2015
Choosing Panama City as your destination to
study Spanish in Panama gives you many
advantages that many other cities or towns cannot
give you, some of them are:
· Less than 2 hours to the MOST beautiful
beaches and the most unique indigenous
tribes in Panama.
· Access to the many activities around the Panama
Canal as transit the Canal, Panama Jungle
tour, river rafting, hiking, trekking, skiing,
and many others.
· In 2 hours or less visit one of the most vibrant
beach areas in the Pacific coast or a secluded
island or beach in the Caribbean.
· Sail in a Catamaran to the most incredible
islands in Panama, these islands are in the
“Archipielago de Las Perlas”.
· Enjoy a really early trail at Parque Soberania or
Metropolitano just before class.
· Have access to more than 100 restaurants from
all over the world.
· Enjoy concerts, plays every weekend from
· Panama, Latin America or many impressive
world artists.
· Free music concerts, festivals, and cultural
events every week.
· The most incredible nightlife.
· Easy access during the weekend with our local
airline to Bocas Del Toro, Boquete, and the
Central Provinces.
EPA! Español en Panama is a high-quality
center for learning Spanish as a
Second/Foreign Language.
We are part of the ELS Panama Group and
our programs follow the Common European
Framework of Reference for Languages
(CEFR).
At EPA! Our pride is our people.
Our professional, experienced and caring
staff is dedicated to helping EPA!
Students settle into their new Latin
American surroundings, progress in their
Spanish studies, and attain their higher
educational and career goals.
EPA! Has been offering high quality
programs for over 6 years and we work with
High Schools, Universities and agencies
partners from North America, Europe,
Africa and Asia.
GRUPO ELS Panama has been recognized
in Panama to be the most academic oriented
and serious educational group in Panama.
Our clients include U.S., British and
Canadian
Embassies, multinational companies and
expats from many parts of the world.
EPA! Español en Panamá is accredited by
the Instituto Cervantes (DELE) and
BILDUNGSURLAUB from Germany,
besides we have many partners’ companies.
EPA! Español en Panamá is conveniently
situated in Plaza Paitilla Mall, in Punta Paitilla,
one of the most prestigious areas of Panama
City.
The school is just a few-minutes’ walk from
shopping malls, entertainment and leisure
facilities, hotels, restaurants, luxury
apartments, clubs and banks.
National parks and museums are also only a
short drive away from the school.
The school’s 16 classrooms are modern and
spacious. Additionally, there is a language
laboratory, internet Wi-Fi access, and media
equipment available for student use.
Linking North and South America and
the two main oceans, Panama is an ideal
and idyllic place for those who want to
know and visit Latin America.
Panama is home to seven different native
Indigenous communities, and with its
many rainforests, mountains, and
spectacular beaches has a varied landscape
to suit all interests.
It is still possible to find unspoiled beaches,
uninhabited islands, diverse wildlife and
traditional tribal lifestyles.
Panama’s culture has been strongly
influenced by Spain, the United States and
the Caribbean, as well as by Chinese and
Asian communities, resulting in a uniquely
rich and diverse society.
PANAMA CITY
Few cities in Latin America can match the
diversity of Panama City.
The historic colonial architecture contrasts
with many modern skyscrapers. With its
unique position on world trade routes, this
thriving commercial and business city
attracts immigrants from around the world,
resulting in a multi-cultural melting pot.
This cosmopolitan city has much to offer
the visitor in terms of entertainment, both
during the day and at night.
EPA! plans a wide range of activities for
students in which they can practice Spanish
conversation and learn about the culture.
We offer visits to local attractions, sporting
events, and trips to nearby theaters,
Presidential Palace, museums and
restaurants.
Also, we organize excursions to beaches,
indigenous communities, the Panama Canal
(including transit), and natural parks in this
beautiful country!
ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE IN PANAMA
Every Thursday at 1 p.m
1 We will visit the Panamanian Afro-
Antillian Ethnic Museum, and learn
about their history and culture.
2 We will visit the Presidential Palace
and take a tour around its historic
halls.
3 We will take a stroll around the old
City and its Ruins, also, we will get
to visit its interesting Museum.
4 Visit of the Gamboa’s rainforest
resort and enjoy a tour through the
chagres river.
And this month a special activity.
Let´s go to Casaya Island!
Every weekend we organize excursions to
different places of interest such as :
· Portobelo - This little town was first given the
name “Puerto Bello” (Beautiful Port) by
Christopher Columbus in 1502 and over time,
the name was shortened to Portobelo.
The town’s 18th-century fortifications were
built by the Spanish to protect their gold from
pirates.
· The Panama Canal Railway – The Panama
Canal Railway takes you from Panama City to
Colón and runs from the Pacific to Atlantic
Ocean.
· San Blas islands - An island chain located on
the Caribbean, this collection of islands is a
popular spot for sailing and boat tours. The
islands are very rustic and make for a great off
the grid place to go. There are many great and
beautiful spots, good sailing, diving, and
snorkeling.
Our methodology is communicative and
follows the curriculum of the Instituto
Cervantes based on the Common European
Framework of Reference for Languages
(CEFR).
DEDICATED AND EXPERIENCED
TEAM
We offer top quality education provided by
teachers with diverse backgrounds and
experiences, all of whom are certified to
teach Spanish as a Second Language.
CLASS SIZE
While group class size depends on the
number of students enrolled at each level,
all classes have a maximum limit of 7
students, allowing all of our students the
opportunity for active participation and
interaction.
CLASS TECHNIQUES
Classes are designed to be interactive.
We utilize a variety of techniques to
stimulate and encourage active participation
by the students including such things as
reading, composition, special homework
projects, and walks in the surrounding areas.
MAIN LEVELS
A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2.
EPA! administration staff
From left to right: Alexandre, Szeikdy y Arlyn. Alberto Orillac (Panamanian) is the CEO
& Founder (ELS Panama Group). He is
in charge of the finances and at the same
time of developing new programs and
partnerships with international agencies,
universities and schools.
Szeikdy Blandón (Panamanian) is the
academic director. She was born in
Panama, but was raised in Spain. She has
a very strong academic background in
teaching Spanish as a second language.
Alexandre Moreno (Panamanian) is the
activities coordinator and student advisor;
he has experience working with tourists
from diverse cultures in Panama and
many other countries.
Arlyn Perez (Cuban) is the sales and
marketing executive. She has a good deal
of experience in administration, business,
and customer service in diverse
multicultural organizations.
Teachers
In EPA! You will find students from many
parts of the world.
Our average age is from 23 to 40 years old.
A mí me encantan las clases de conversación, porque me
permiten practicar y conocer a las otras personas de
diferentes lugares. Pienso que hablar es el mejor método
para aprender una lengua extranjera.
Los cursos permiten la confianza. Además, me gustan las
actividades porque permiten ver las personas de la escuela
en un marco agradable. Con EPA! mi nivel de español está
mejorando! Solo tenía los fundamentos, pero ahora puedo
hablar con la gente! Marie Mol, Francia
¡Pienso que EPA! es una muy buena escuela! Los
empleados de EPA! son agradables y amables. Los
profesores son muy competente y siempre responden a
todas las preguntas.
A mí me gusta la diversidad de la escuela porque estudio
con italianos, franceses, coreanos, brasileños, etc. Es una
mezcla muy interesante! Me gustan las actividades porque
podemos descubrir panamá con amigos de la escuela fuera
de la escuela. Es una experiencia única!
Está bien situado en la ciudad de Panamá porque está
rodeado de muchísimas tiendas. Akemi Kajiwara, Japon
Pienso que EPA! es la mejor escuela para aprender el español
en panamá! La localización es buenísima porque es cerca de
todo. Los servicios que ofrecen son excelente.
A mi gusta mas los cursos y las clases de conversación porque
los profesores son muy amables. Además las actividades son
muy útiles para practicar la lengua.
Recomendé EPA! a una amiga! Nayana Tomazella, Brasil
Program Schedule Lesson/D Lesson/W
Semi-intensive Week
days from
9a.m to
11:50 a.m
3 15
Intensive Week
days from
9a.m to
1p.m
4 20
Super-intensive
(Bildungsurlaub)
(combines group
classes +private)
Group:
week days
9a.m to
1p.m
Private:
week days
2p.m to
4p.m
4 group
lessons
And 2
private
lessons
30
GROUP PROGRAMS
These programs are designed for students looking
to combine Spanish studies with recreational
activities or those who have a special working
agenda.
In these courses, the lessons integrate the four
skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening
with grammatical structures and vocabulary
development; and very interesting aspects of
Panamanian-Latino culture and way of life.
Our small, intimate classes allow you to learn and
interact with students from all over the world.
Starting dates: every Monday, year round.
1 lesson: 50 minutes
7 students max per class (Age 16+)
ONE-TO-ONE (private classes)
Before beginning private classes, we analyze your
individual goals and then create a customized
program adapted to your needs, topics of interest,
timetable and additional activities.
It can also be organized for families or business
groups.
1 lesson: 60 minutes.
Minimum 6 hours per week to achieve expected
goals.
Flexible schedule.
Places: As agreed, in student’s office/house within
the city or in our center.
IMMERSION PROGRAM (Spanish
lessons + Accommodation + Leisure
activities)
The combination of classes in the
mornings and various recreational
activities, including both cultural and
sporting events offered in the evenings,
will allow you to learn a new language
and experience the Latin culture as a
whole.
This program can be organized in
accordance with the high school or
university’s needs.
Groups of 10 to 15 students + professor.
Duration: Flexible dates, from one
week to the amount of weeks needed.
Schedule: Classes on Monday through
Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.
Activities in the afternoons and on
weekends.
Time of the year: Panama during the
winter is gorgeous (January to May)! Or
try Easter, Spring Break, Summer or
Thanksgiving.
SUMMER CAMP (Spanish lessons +
Accommodation + Leisure activities)
This plan provides you the opportunity to
improve your Spanish skills. Our plan
includes accommodation with a host family
and daily diverse activities while you are
living the local lifestyle in Panama City.
Students from 14-17 years old, groups or
individuals. Duration: 1, 2 or 3 weeks. Ask
about starting days.
Schedule: Classes Monday through Friday
from 9:00 a.m. to 11:50 p.m. Activities
during the afternoons.
INTERSHIPS (Internships + Spanish lessons +
Accommodation + Leisure activities)
This plan provides the opportunity to do an
internship in one of many diverse and
prestigious Panamanian companies appropriate
to your professional background.
Your fluency in Spanish will improve and you will
become better acquainted with foreign
enterprises, while developing your professional
potential.
Also, our plan includes a wide range of lodging
options, leisure and cultural activities, while you
are living the local lifestyle in the always thriving
and beautiful Panama City. Type of course Prices
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks
of work experience + 8 Weeks half-board
accommodation
4120
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks
of work experience + 8 Weeks shared
apartment accommodation
3590
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks
of work experience
1350
VOLUNTEERING (Spanish lessons + Volunteerng + Accommodation + Leisure activities)
While you are volunteering, you have the ideal opportunity to learn a new language as well
as immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of Panama. Ideal for those whose spirit is
full of passion and charity for helping others and seeks to have a real vision of the world and
in some way provide social assistance through organizations for children, youth or the elderly.
Type of course Prices
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks volunteering + 8 Weeks half-board
accommodation
2600
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks volunteering + 8 Weeks shared apartment
accommodation
2000
4 weeks intensive Spanish course + 4 weeks volunteering 1000
Start every Monday from B1. 18 years old minimum. Included: Language text course,
textbook, part time volunteering job in the field selected and the support from EPA!
EPA! Offers a variety of lodgings options to suit
your needs and preferences.
In addition to hotels, hostels of various types
and prices, we offer rooms in lodgings with very
affordable prices.
Whichever you select, you will find it
comfortable ideal for your study in Panama.
HOMESTAY
EPA! Offers home-stay accommodations with
a Spanish-speaking host family.
Families and houses are carefully chosen to
ensure a pleasant and safe “home away from
home” for our students.
Living with a host family can help you learn the
language faster while experiencing Panamanian
customs and culture firsthand. Students often
develop very close relationships with their
hosts, building friendships that can last a
lifetime.
You can opt for a half board (breakfast &
dinner included) or without meals.
SHARED APARTMENT
As per home stay, this accommodation is
carefully selected based on a variety of criteria.
This option gives you complete freedom and
gives you access to all facilities within the
apartment or building.
This option is an excellent solution for those
people looking for independence.
No meals are included.
Our prices are competitive and offer an excellent price-quality balance, guaranteed to meet your
needs.
Program Enrollment fee includes:
· One hour of FREE conversation class every Tuesday after 1:20 p.m. This conversation class lets
you practice Spanish, while sharing with students from different levels & cultures.
· FREE transportation and tour guide for weekly activities every Thursday afternoon after 1:30 p.m.
· Internet Wi-Fi, multimedia lab and other facilities.
· FREE academic support if needed.
· Certificate of completion
· Use of books, novels
· Welcome package
For programs lasting more than 3 weeks, class materials (textbook+ workbook+ CD) are included
in the price. One-to-One classes do not include class materials.
One-time application fee: $50. All level start every Monday. Small classes (5 to 7). 50min per lesson.
Semi intensive Intensive Super intensive
Bildungsurlaub +
workshop
Lesson/week 15 20 +30
1 week 190 230 480
2 weeks 360 450 930
3 weeks 530 645 1345
4 weeks 700 850 1810
5 weeks 850 1050 2200
6 weeks 1010 1240 2620
7 weeks 1165 1420 3030
8 weeks 1320 1595 3435
9 weeks 1460 1775 3845
10 weeks 1600 1960 4260
11 weeks 1745 2140 4670
12 weeks 1900 2315 5075
Extra weeks 155 190 420
SUPER INTENSIVE Bildungsurlaub + WORKSHOPS (BILDUNGSURLAUB): 20 group lessons
+ 5 hours of specific group workshops and cultural immersion + 10 lessons full immersion per
week. Group and cultural workshops cover various aspects of Spanish & Latin America culture
and civilization. Workshops of culture, language, pronunciation, dancing, tours, etc.
In the exceptional only one student is enrolled in a course of one level, the school reserves the
right to convert the course into a private program which will result in a reduction of 5 classes per
week.
PRIVATE TUITION
Type of course Day or night shift
Night starting from
6:00 p.m onwards
Number of hours Price/hour
One to one Day 1-12 hours 32
13-24 hours 30
25 hours 27
50 hours 25
Night 1-12 hours 37
13-24 hours 35
25 hours 32
50 hours 30
Currency: USD. Start all day at any level
Classes outside the school will be subject to an extra fee depending on the area where the class
will take place. Please ask for our prices. Cancellations need to be make with 24 hours’ notice.
Otherwise the student will be penalized 1 hour of class.
PRIVATE GROUP FOR PROFESSIONAL
Number of students Number of hours Price/hour Price/student Total price
2 50 35 875 1750
3-5 50 50 500 2500
6-8 50 60 375 3000
9-11 50 70 320 3520
12-15 50 85 285 4275
BOOKS
Text and exercise book
USD 50 per set
(all level except C2)
Included in intensive courses of 4 weeks or more
DELE OFFICIAL PREPARATION COURSE
Spanish+DELE course - Morning
Weeks/lessons 1 week 2 week 3 week 4 week
20 250 470 665 870
Preparation DELE course - Evening
Weeks/lessons 4 week 5 weeks 6 weeks 7 weeks 8 weeks
6 lessons/week 600 720 830 925 1000
SCHEDULE
Morning Evening
Levels: All Days: Monday to Friday
9:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m
Break: 10:30 to 10:50 and 11:50 to 12:10
15 lessons, 50 minutes of general Spanish
5 lessons of 50 minutes of DELE
Levels: A1, B1, C1
Days: Monday and Wednesday
Levels: A2, B2, C2
Days: Tuesday and Thursday
6:00 p.m to 8:45 p.m
Break: 07:30 to 7:45
3 lessons of 50 minutes
AVE (ONLINE SPANISH COURSES)
Type of course Prices
3 months of online courses with a tutor 120
6 months of online courses with a tutor 200
SPANISH + TOURISM
Type of course Prices
El valle and Contadora Island: 2 weeks of
intensive Spanish course + 2 weeks of half-
board accommodation + 1 full week trip to
el valle & contadora island + transfer airport-
homestay-airport
1995
Isla Grande & San Blas: 2 weeks of intensive
Spanish course+ 2 weeks of half-board
accommodation + 1 full week trip to Isla
Grande and San Blas + transfer Airport-
Home-Airport
1955
Santa Catalina & Coiba Island: 2 weeks of
intensive Spanish course + 2 weeks of half-
board accommodation +1 full week trip to
Santa Catalina & Coiba Island + transfer
airport-home-airport
1950
SURVIVAL SPANISH
Type of course Price
2 hours of survival Spanish (for everyday
situation: travel, bank, restaurant…) +
excursions to places of interest (The old city,
Cerro Ancon, the Causeway etc…)
50
GROUP PROGRAM
Type of course Prices
Flexible prices, dates, times and course
content based on group preferences and
needs Excellent group prices
Please note: One teacher or group leader
free for every 10 paying students.
JUNIOR PROGRAM
Type of course 1 week 2 weeks 3 weeks
Junior program in
homestay 15
lessons/week
700 1300 1890
Currency: USD
Dates: ask us.
All Levels.
Accommodation: (Sunday to Sunday) homestay, half-board.
Included: roundtrip transportation from airport to destination and from homestay to school,
daily and week-end leisure activities.
ACCOMMODATION
Shared apartment without meals
Single room 150/week – 25 extra night
Homestay –Host Family
Single room 225/week – 40 extra night
OTHER FEES AND SERVICES
Application fee for any enrollment type 50
Travel medical insurance (4weeks or less) 110
Books 50
Placement fee 55
Tocumen airport pick-up 1 way 1 person 35
Tocumen airport pick-up 1 way 2 or more people 23/ student
Tocumen airport pick-up roundtrip 1 person 60
Tocumen airport pick-up roundtrip 2 or more
people
40/student
If this is your very first time in Panama City, we will take care of some matters that may help
you experience the best of Panama. Feel free to contact our International Student Advisor for
any requests you may have.
Our staff members will look for the best options and recommend what best meets your
expectations and budget.
STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE
All travelers attending EPA! Español en Panama are required to have health insurance valid for
the full period of study.
As we usually go on trips, we want to make sure you are covered during your stay.
If the student does not have insurance, he may purchase the health insurance coverage from us:
USD 110 for 4 weeks. This health insurance is accepted by physicians and medical facilities in
Panama. EPA! staff will provide insurance information and assistance with submitting claim
forms or reimbursement requests.
Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
VISA INFORMATION
After enrollment, EPA! will provide students with a guide and if necessary, the documents
required to obtain the visa.
SCHOOL & CITY ORIENTATION
During the enrollment process and while students are with us in classes, EPA! staff will provide
you with maps, information, and recommendations which will help you become independent
and feel confident when traveling in and around the city.
TOURISM INFORMATION
The student advisor will provide information about places to visit, fees, transportation and other
support you may need while staying in Panama.
AIRPORT PICKUP SERVICE
EPA! can arrange airport pickup service round-trip from the airport to your home stay.
Our service offers high quality and reliability. Refer to the pricing page for details.
These dates are provisional and we cannot be
responsible for changes made by central or
local authorities.
2015 HOLIDAYS
January 1st – New year’s day
January 9th – Martyr’s day
From February 14th to February 18th –
Carnival
April 3rd & 4th – Good Friday and Holy
Saturday
May 1st – Labour day
November 3rd – Independence day
November 4th – Flag day
November 5th – Colon day
November 10th – Shout in villa de los
Santos
November 28th – Independence from
Spain
December 8th – Mother’s day
From December 21st to December 31St
– Christmas
When there are two holidays in the same
week (Monday to Friday) one day of the
missed lessons will be made up.
There will be no refund of classes missed
due to national or local holidays except for
one and one classes which will be made up
in all cases.
Learn Spanish with the best!
www.studyspanishinpanama.com
email: [email protected]
Phone: +507-3914044
Skype ID: epa.pty
Follow us on Twitter: @EPAPanama
Like us in Facebook! www.facebook.com/epapanama