ADULT TRIP
What makes this program dynamic and unique; unlike any other organized trip you could take? I know Extremadura and the region like the back of my hand. Born and raised in Caceres, my connections are unlimited. I have been running these unique organized adventures in Spain for over 15 years. And, my connections go beyond Caceres.
My older sister has been a seasoned tour guide in Seville for 3 decades and knows every colorful corner of the city. In Madrid, my younger sister is well-connected in the arts, music and overall cultural scene. In Trujillo, the historical epicenter of Extremadura, my brother runs an eclectic AirB&B located at the gates of the towering Trujillian Castle. Having these connections will render you an engaged local in every Spanish city we visit. I am a person emersed in community; I will share that community with you.
While in Lisbon, Seville and Madrid, you’ll stay in comfy and modern AirB&B apartments.
But the real gem of this travel adventure is the family home stay youll experience while in Caceres.This is the heart of the authentic experience of this trip; the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in Spanish culture with a Spanish family. Fluency in Spanish is not required but in the home of your Spanish host family, you will have ample opportunity to work on your language skills. And the friendships built are lifelasting nearly all of our host relationships over the years have gone on to be forever connections!
WHY CÁCERES?
Cáceres is the capital of the province by the same name. It’s part of the region of Extremadura in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Portugal. The medieval town of Cáceres (population 93,000) is one of the most important architectural complexes of Europe, with ruins dating back to the second century B.C.E. It’s been declared a World Heritage City by the United Nations.
Cáceres is a small and safe city, a hidden jewel in Spain often unknown to American tourists. Surrounding cities such as Trujillo contain history that helps contextualize the Spanish colonization of the Americas. It’s situated in a privileged geographical area only three hours from the hubs of Madrid, Seville, and Lisbon. Castles, cathedrals, and other architectural gems are scattered all over Extremadura.
International Language and Cultural Experience (ILCEX) is a Portsmouth, New Hampshire-based company specializing in exchange programs between the Seacoast area and Cáceres, Spain. Founded in 2008, ILCEX has organized several trips every year since for area high school students and intrepid adults. ILCEX founder Carmen Duran is a dual American and Spanish citizen and is well connected throughout Spain but particularly knowledgable about all aspects of the Extremadura region, culture and history.