s-w-e-p.com

Life as an intern – insights into an internship placement

Conny — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Want to know what it’s like to do an internship with us?

Our interns gain hands-on experience, grow professionally, and discover what they’re capable of, all while enjoying life.

Think beach days, new friendships, and exploring exciting surroundings! 🌴✈️🌍

We asked some of them to share their stories – the fun moments, the challenges, and everything in between. Here’s what they have to say about their internship placements arranged through our agency. 💕

Meet Laura: Public Relations Department – Tenerife

“I’m currently doing a two-month hotel internship on the beautiful island of Tenerife, working in the Public Relations Department.

One of the best things about my internship placement is that I get to share it with my friend — in the same hotel and even the same department! It’s such a gift to experience all of this together. 🥰🙏🏻💕

The hotel itself is fantastic, and the people are even better. Each Friday, there’s a new theme, and the whole hotel transforms to match. My first working day at the hotel, we went full hippie style — think giant peace sign, VW Bully decorations, and everyone in colorful outfits. The energy was contagious!

What I love most is the Spanish mentality. People are always smiling, welcoming, and ready to pass on their good mood.

Here, everything is a reason to celebrate…

Birthday? Celebration! Cultural holiday? Celebration! Local town Festival? Celebration! Ordinary Tuesday? Celebration! 🤩

Life in Spain truly feels like a never-ending fiesta. 💃🏻

The location is another reason I’m so thankful. The island is absolutely stunning. We often go to the beach to enjoy the sun, tan and watch the surfers. The hotel we work at has a very nice location. Right in front, we have a promenade where we take long walks and watch the ocean. It takes us only 5 minutes walking to get to the beach and just 5 minutes to get to the shopping street. It´s a great location and there is always something to see and explore! 😉

A hotel internship placement on the Canary Islands is so much fun, especially when shared with a friend! On our days off, it feels like vacation. Beach, sun and good vibes! 😎

We are already very sad that we will have to leave soon!”

Meet Daniel: Reception Department – Lanzarote

“I completed an internship in the Reception Department of a 4-star hotel on Lanzarote, and it turned out to be so much more than just work experience.

At the beginning, I was focused on finding a routine, something that really helps me feel grounded in a new environment. Luckily, my colleagues were incredibly welcoming and supportive, which made the adjustment much smoother.

As the weeks went by, I started to feel more confident and settled into my role. I learned a lot about how a hotel operates.

But more than that, I learned a lot about myself.

Outside of work, I took full advantage of my time on the island. I explored the Lanzarote and even got to see a bit of Fuerteventura. It was the perfect balance of professional growth and personal discovery. 💪🏻

This internship opened my eyes to a new culture, a different pace of life, and a new way of working. I’m especially grateful to the S-W-E-P team, who guided me through the entire process—from choosing the hotel to helping with the paperwork and making sure I met every deadline. Thanks to their support, everything was so much easier and smoother. 🙏🏻

If you’re thinking about doing an internship abroad: go for it! It’s an unforgettable opportunity to grow both personally and professionally, to step out of your comfort zone, and to create memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.”

Meet Madlen: Spa Department – Tenerife

“During my internship placement I met amazing people, grew as a person and learnt a lot along the way. In my home country I am studying to become a beautician, so the internship in the Spa Department helped me a lot for my future career.

I got a different perspective and was able to collect work experience. My work was to perform various body and facial treatments, pedicures, manicures as well as different kinds of massages. Additionally, I was able to look into the hairdressing department and learned even more! I enjoy the work as a beautician a lot. It is not only about the treatments you perform but also about the experience that you give the customer.

You help people feel relaxed after a massage, refreshed after a manicure, or confident after a hairdressing appointment. It’s all about making them feel better. I really enjoyed being able to apply my theoretical knowledge in a practical way. Learning by doing was such a rewarding experience! 😉

I met two amazing girls from Tenerife. On our days off, we spent time together and had a lot of fun. We went to the monkey park which was really cool. I even had one of the monkeys climbing on me! The park has also other animals like crocodiles, countless kinds of birds, turtles and so on but the monkeys were my favorite, so cute! 🙊💕

By sharing my accommodation with these two girls from Tenerife, I also learned a lot about cross-cultural interactions. It was a new experience and a valuable challenge to live with girls from a different country.

I learnt to be flexible and how to adapt to those kinds of situations. This will be definitely helpful in my future! And in the end, we became very good friends!!

I am so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and did this internship!”

Meet Tobias: Restaurant and Bars Department – Costa Rica

“My internship placement was in the Restaurant and Bars Department of a 4-star hotel in Costa Rica.

I enjoyed every moment of it. My colleagues welcomed me warmly and I felt like I was part of the team. The atmosphere was very homely. 😍

I got to be part of the organization of romantic dinners for several hotel guests. We set up a table at the beach and decorated around it. We laid rose petals along the path to the table, and torches lined the way.

Additionally, the hotel hosted weddings, and I also got engaged in them. It was really nice to take part in these special occasions and help give the guests an unforgettable time during their holiday.

For me, the time in Costa Rica was unforgettable as well, and I am beyond glad I did this.”

Meet Annika & Julia: Reception & Public Relations Department – Tenerife

“We did our internships at a 4-star hotel on the beautiful island of Tenerife and it was nothing short of unforgettable. One of the best parts?

We got to share the experience together, which made every moment even more special.

From day one, we dove into a mix of learning, adventure, and fun. We worked in a dynamic hotel environment where we grew professionally, took on real responsibilities, and gained hands-on insight into the hospitality industry.

Our internship placement gave us the perfect balance of professional development and personal discovery. 🌎🥰

Outside of work, the island became our playground. We explored hidden beaches, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and watched fiery sunsets paint the sky from the sand.

We rented a car and set off on weekend road trips to Masca’s dramatic cliffs, the towering rock formations of Los Gigantes, the colorful streets of Santa Cruz, the quiet charm of Bocacangrejo, and of course, the majestic Teide volcano — where we even caught the sunrise above the clouds!

What made it even better was the people. We met fellow interns and travelers from all over the world. Whether we were grabbing tapas together, dancing at a beach party, or just laughing over late-night talks, we made friendships that felt like family. Having each other throughout the internship made everything more fun and meaningful. We shared the highs, supported each other through the challenges, and celebrated every small win.

Looking back, we didn’t just complete an internship, we lived an adventure, learned so much, and created memories that will stay with us forever.”

Meet Joshua: Entertainment Department – Tenerife

“I settled in very quickly during my internship placement. I had a team of six people plus a supervisor in the Entertainment department. The team was made up of people aged 19 to 24 from different countries.

I shared my room with an employee from Alicante, and it turned out to be a great thing, as it made it much easier to settle into the team. Additionally, I improved my Spanish since my roommate was teaching me. Nevertheless, the team mostly communicated in English.

We had breakfast in the main restaurant with the guests, lunch in the staff canteen, and dinner again in the restaurant. The food was so good, including Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta, as well as Spanish and English cuisine.

I worked five days a week with two days off. We organized games for the kids and adults and dressed up for the evening shows or the mini disco. We had a lot of fun dressing up.

Since I am an athlete, I trained every day. I cycled up Mount Teide, ran at the Olympic stadium, and swam in the outdoor pool or in the sea, often with a friend. It was refreshing to have a change of scenery for my training. 🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️

The experience was definitely great, not only because I was able to continue following my passion while doing an internship, but also because of the people I met and the friends I made.”

Meet Annika: Restaurant Department – Malta

“If you’re thinking about doing an internship abroad – go for it! ☀👍

I absolutely loved my internship placement in Malta. It was an incredible experience that honestly couldn’t have been better.

From the very beginning, my colleagues were warm, welcoming, and super friendly. They made me feel right at home.

I had so much fun at work and was constantly learning new things. I got to experience all areas of the restaurant department: taking orders, serving drinks, cleaning tables, you name it!

There were many interns, and we quickly became like a little international family. We created a WhatsApp group to stay in touch and plan meet-ups, trips, and nights out. It was always a bit sad when someone’s internship ended, but new interns kept arriving, and the circle kept growing.

One of the highlights was having my family and friends visit me in Malta. We explored the island together and shared some unforgettable moments.

Now that I’ve completed my 4-month internship, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’m so thankful to S-W-E-P for organizing everything so smoothly. I met amazing people, improved my English, and gained so many valuable experiences, both professionally and personally.

If you’re considering an internship abroad, don’t hesitate – just do it! I can only recommend it.”

Meet Julio: Entertainment Department – Lanzarote

“My internship placement on Lanzarote was a lot of fun. From the very start, I knew it was going to be a good experience.

There were lots of other interns at my hotel, which made everything even more fun. We were always doing something together, whether it was going out in the evenings, exploring the island, or enjoying boat tours and other adventures on our days off.

Lanzarote itself is stunning! The landscapes are so unique and full of character — volcanic rock, palm-lined beaches, and that incredible year-round sunshine. The island’s vibe was just perfect.

I did my practical training in the Entertainment department, which suited me perfectly since I study sport. My job, along with the other team members, was to make sure the guests had an amazing time. We ran aerobics sessions, water gymnastics, fun competitions, and took part in games.

Every day brought something new and exciting. In the evenings, we hit the stage! The shows always had a different theme, something for everyone: kids, adults, and families. Performing in front of the guests, dressed up and in character, was so much fun and really boosted my confidence.

This internship was the perfect mix of work, fun, and adventure.” 🚀🍹🌍

Meet Carolin: Human Resources Department – Malta

“I recently completed an internship in the Human Resources Department of a hotel.

My internship placement was in Malta and I loved it there. 💖

What I really appreciated about my internship was that I truly learnt a lot, not just professionally but also personally.

In the beginning, it was a little bit overwhelming because of all the new tasks and information, but I got used to it. My main tasks included processing applications and managing employee records. I also supported recruitment activities, which I found particularly interesting.

I helped organize interviews and was involved in contract and payroll management. By having these responsibilities, I significantly improved my task management skills.

Through the work in the HR department, I learnt about the importance of communication skills and empathy when working in teams.

This experience shaped me and was definitely be helpful for my future. I gained practical experience and grew as a person, all while being in the sun and enjoying life. It was a great time. Thank you!”

Meet Coraline & Perrine: Reception Department – Tenerife

“S-W-E-P organized our work placement in a way that allowed us to work in the same hotel and even in the same department, which made the experience even more special.

We were really happy to be able to do our internships together and create lasting memories as a team.

The agency also helped us to get in touch with more interns of other hotels, and we quickly arranged to meet up. We had a great time together and got along very well from the start.

One of the best parts of a hotel internship is meeting so many people from different backgrounds, both among the guests and fellow interns.

Working in the Reception Department gave us the opportunity to improve our Spanish and English significantly.

We handled check-ins and check-outs, managed guest inquiries, responded to emails, provided general assistance at the front desk, and coordinated with other departments. It was a great chance to develop communication skills, gain confidence, and work as part of an international team.

We’re very grateful for this experience and for the support we received throughout our internship placements.” 🥰

Meet Levente: Food & Beverage Department, Lanzarote

“My practical training was divided between two departments, allowing me to gain a well-rounded and enriching experience.

I began my internship placement in the Food & Beverage Department, which I absolutely loved. Preparing and serving drinks while engaging with guests comes naturally to me. It’s something I truly enjoy.

Working in such a lively environment helped me develop strong communication skills and improve my language abilities. Since most of the guests were German or English speakers, both foreign languages for me, I improved significantly in both. And of course, being in Spain, I practiced Spanish daily and the progress I made was incredible.

After about three months, I transitioned into the Reception Department, where I quickly learned the core front office tasks. I was eager to absorb as much as possible, knowing how valuable this knowledge would be for my future career in hospitality.

Driven by my motivation to learn more, I spoke with my supervisor about expanding my responsibilities. Thanks to the hotel’s support, I was given the chance to gain insight into the work of the Public Relations Department. I was able to gain meaningful experience in guest relations and event coordination.

This internship provided me with the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. I improved my language skills, gained confidence, and explored multiple areas within the hotel industry. I’m proud of everything I achieved and truly feel I made the most of this experience. It was an amazing opportunity, and I’m very grateful for it.” 🙏☀

Meet Maëlis: Reception Department – Tenerife

“My internship placement was in the Reception Department of a hotel on the island of Tenerife.

When selecting my internship destination, one key factor for me was the opportunity to continue surfing in my free time. I was very happy that S-W-E-P considered my preferences and arranged my placement accordingly.

Tenerife turned out to be the perfect location, not only for its waves, but also for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor lifestyle.

The island’s natural beauty made it easy to enjoy life outside of work. I often spent time outdoors, going on hikes, having picnics, or simply relaxing in nature. It was the ideal environment to balance work and leisure.

From a professional perspective, working in the Reception Department gave me valuable insight into hotel operations and front office procedures.

I gained experience in welcoming guests, explaining hotel facilities and services, assisting with guest inquiries, learning conflict resolution and complaint handling, all while working in a dynamic, international environment. This role helped me strengthen my communication and problem-solving skills, and gave me a clearer understanding of guest satisfaction and service quality in the hospitality industry.

S-W-E-P also supported me in connecting with other interns on the island, even those placed at different hotels. Thanks to this, I was able to build a strong social circle, meet people from different countries, and make lasting friendships. Not only were the other interns amazing, but my hotel colleagues were also incredibly kind, welcoming, and professional.

Overall, this internship allowed me to develop valuable skills and gain meaningful experiences while fully enjoying all that Tenerife has to offer. I truly appreciate the opportunity and cherish the connections I made throughout the journey.” 😃

Meet Kristiina: Food & Beverage Department – Costa Rica

“The most memorable thing about my hotel work placement was definitely the people I worked with. We learned so much from each other. I spent three wonderful months with them that I will never forget.

During my free time, I enjoyed exploring the surrounding area and traveling throughout Costa Rica. Traveling by bus is very cheap there. It can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s definitely worth it to see the amazing nature and landscapes of Costa Rica.

There are so many great tours and activities to do. I went horseback riding, zip-lining, and rappelling, all amazing experiences. The local people are very open, friendly, and helpful whenever I had a question or found myself a bit lost.

All in all, I had a lot of fun exploring Costa Rica, and I definitely want to go back to see more. 🦜🏄‍♂️🦥🌴

I also want to say that the communication from S-W-E-P has been excellent, and you have been so patient and helpful in setting up this internship placement. Thank you so much!”

Meet Klara: Restaurant Department – Tenerife

“One experience I will never forget is the breathtaking view from the summit of Mount Teide. We took a trip to the 3,715-meter-high volcano, and the sight above the clouds at sunset was truly one of the most stunning views I have ever seen. 🌋🥾

We also explored the north of the island and I can highly recommend visiting Playa de Las Teresitas, Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and Playa de Benijo. Tenerife is incredibly diverse, the contrast between the north and south of the island is striking, and both areas are well worth visiting.

If you’re there during carnival season, don’t miss the vibrant parade in Santa Cruz – it’s an unforgettable experience!

Tenerife is also a fantastic destination for staying active. As someone who enjoys sports, I spent a lot of time cycling around Costa Adeje, La Camella, and Valle San Lorenzo. I also went hiking in Masca, which was an absolute highlight.

This island has left a lasting impression on me, and I will truly miss it!”

Meet Camille: Reception Department – Gran Canaria

“I am really enjoying my internship placement here on Gran Canaria! I love meeting new people and traveling around. It’s a great opportunity to gain experience in the hotel industry over a few months.

I enjoy the daily work at the reception and especially love being in contact with people of different nationalities and discovering new cultures. During my time on the island, I’ve gained valuable insight into the hotel business and significantly improved my language skills.

In my free time, I usually go out with my new friends and colleagues. It’s been a pleasure meeting so many lovely people. I’m truly enjoying my time on the island and already feel sad that I’ll have to leave soon.

Nevertheless, I will keep plenty of good memories, and maybe in the future, I will come back to get a job on this beautiful island!” 🏖️🌴🌊

Meet Alex: Assistant Management Department – Fuerteventura

“After living and working on Fuerteventura for six months, I can truly say that it was a valuable and enriching experience. My internship placement in the Assistant Management Department allowed me to gain deep insight into the daily operations of a hotel and build important skills that will support my future career in hospitality. 🤝🚀

I had the opportunity to collaborate with different departments, assist with the daily planning and coordination of hotel operations, help in guest services, and participate in team briefings and internal communication. This hands-on experience gave me a much better understanding of how a hotel runs behind the scenes.

Outside of work, I was able to explore the island and even visit nearby Lanzarote. Fuerteventura is a beautiful place with incredible beaches, welcoming locals, and a relaxed atmosphere. I also met many amazing people, both colleagues and fellow interns who made my time there truly special.

Overall, I had a fantastic time. I would highly recommend an internship placement abroad to anyone who is looking to grow, gain international experience, and enjoy working in a sunny and vibrant environment.”

Meet Aimee: Restaurant Department – Tenerife

“My internship placement was in the Restaurant Department of a hotel on Tenerife.

My favorite thing was the boat trip I took in Los Gigantes. I got to see the cliffs and Masca Bay, which were very beautiful. Some of the other interns and I also did a whale- and dolphin-watching boat trip from Puerto Colón. It was a lot of fun even though we didn’t see any dolphins. 🐬

There were a lot more interns in my hotel, and we all got along pretty well and went to do a bunch of stuff like this boat trip whenever we had the same day off.

A girl who was placed in the same hotel and I went to the opening parade of the Arona Carnival, and it was sooo cool! I wish I had gotten to see the main event in Santa Cruz, but I had to work that day.

Thank you, S-W-E-P! I’ve really enjoyed my time here and making new friends who are sharing the same sort of experience.”

Meet Jessica: Reception Department – Kos

“I’m an Italian student and I’ve spent 4 months in Greece doing practical training in the Reception Department of a resort on Kos Island.

At first, it was a great opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, even though I didn’t speak Greek.

Luckily, most of the staff spoke English, which made communication easy and helped me feel welcome. Everyone was very polite, and I learned a lot thanks to my supervisors.

The job was amazing. I got to meet many new people from different places and was able to use all the languages I know (English, Spanish, Italian).

The island was perfect. After work, I spent my time at the beach, went shopping, or on my days off I did excursions and trips. I visited all the islands around Kos and Bodrum in Turkey.

“I’m an Italian student and I’ve spent 4 months in Greece doing practical training in the Reception Department of a resort on Kos Island.

At first, it was a great opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, even though I didn’t speak Greek.

Luckily, most of the staff spoke English, which made communication easy and helped me feel welcome. Everyone was very polite, and I learned a lot thanks to my supervisors.

The job was amazing. I got to meet many new people from different places and was able to use all the languages I know (English, Spanish, Italian).

The island was perfect. After work, I spent my time at the beach, went shopping, or on my days off I did excursions and trips. I visited all the islands around Kos and Bodrum in Turkey.

The village where I lived is full of international and Greek parties, which is a great chance to make friends who don’t work in your hotel. I had the best time and can only recommend it.🥳🤗

I’m sure you will also have a wonderful internship experience here!”

Meet Zoe: Public Relations Department – Tenerife

“I am really enjoying my internship abroad. One of the main highlights for me is, without a doubt, the wonderful weather and climate. Coming from Ireland, where it often rains and tends to be cold, being here truly feels like paradise. 🌺🏝️

I’m currently completing my work placement in the Public Relations Department of a hotel, where I’ve had the chance to develop valuable skills and gain insight into the hospitality industry.

My daily tasks include welcoming guests, handling guest feedback, assisting with hotel events, managing guest satisfaction questionnaires, and providing general information about the hotel and local area.

I’m also learning how to effectively communicate with guests from different cultural backgrounds, which is helping me build strong interpersonal and language skills. My colleagues have been very supportive and always take the time to help when needed.

It’s also been a pleasure to meet interns from all over Europe and getting to know so many different cultures has been a highlight of this experience.

While coordinating days off with other interns can be a bit tricky, I’ve made the most of my free time by relaxing at the beach and exploring the surroundings. We’ve already gone out together a few times, and we’re planning to rent a car soon for a day trip around the island. I’m really looking forward to it!

Overall, this internship placement has been a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on skills, build confidence, and broaden my cultural horizons.”

Meet Ugne: Reception Department – Fuerteventura

“To everybody who is wondering whether to do an internship or not, I will just say:

“Go for it! It will be an opportunity you will never forget.”

The hotel practical training was a perfect combination of learning how to be professional at work, improving my foreign languages, meeting new people from all over the world, and travelling around the island. Since it’s a popular tourist destination, in your free time you really feel like you’re on holiday!

I wasn’t sure how internships in the reception department would work, or whether I would really learn much or just do basic tasks but I was pleasantly surprised to be given the opportunity to feel like a real receptionist — attending to customers, handling calls and emails, arranging excursions, managing special requests, and learning how to do every single task properly.

Working in a Spanish environment was amazing. People are so friendly, always smiling, very helpful, and optimistic, which really helps in the fast-paced and busy hotel environment. I believe this experience will be very valuable for my future career.

If you’re worried about your language skills, just believe that you will improve faster than you ever expected! You’ll hear foreign languages all around you all the time and pick them up quickly. Once people see that you want to learn, they’ll help you in any way they can (my colleagues were always friendly enough to repeat sentences if I didn’t understand or even write them down for me so I could remember).

My hotel work placement on Fuerteventura felt like a long holiday during which I became fluent in Spanish and learned how to work as a receptionist without even feeling like I was working hard (especially with a sea view at work). 😎🌊

I wish the best of luck to future interns and hope they enjoy their internships as much as I did.

Thank you again very, very much! I liked it so much that the only thing I dream of now is to come back and live in the Canary Islands after finishing my studies in one year.”

Meet Zora: Human Resources Department – Tenerife

“I am currently undertaking my internship placement within the Human Resources Department of a prestigious luxury hotel chain located in Tenerife, where S-W-E-P is also based. ☀💕

My responsibilities encompass maintaining consistent communication with all trainees to ensure smooth onboarding and ongoing support. I am also involved in preparing, reviewing, and managing HR documentation, including contracts, employee records and data protection files, and ensuring their timely distribution to new hires.

Additionally, I assist in the recruitment process by screening applications, coordinating interviews, and selecting the most qualified candidates to meet the department’s staffing needs.

Beyond recruitment, I coordinate the organization of further education programs and on-the-job training initiatives designed to enhance employee skills and performance.

I also support employee engagement activities, assist with performance evaluation processes, and help maintain compliance with laws and internal HR policies. My role requires frequent collaboration with various hotel departments to address workforce planning and employee relations matters effectively.

Given the international background of many trainees, I predominantly communicate in English; however, I conduct all interactions with my team and Spanish-speaking colleagues in Spanish. This environment has enabled me to significantly improve my Spanish language skills, which I consider essential for anyone aspiring to work in this department.

During my free time, I often visit the nearby beach and have explored many parts of Tenerife alongside new friends. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and would gladly undertake this internship again.👍”

Locations

Our vacancies

Application

The post Life as an intern – insights into an internship placement appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Do your internship in Costa Rica!

Conny — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 13:00:44 +0000

Impressive nature, unknown culture, Spanish language… hotel internship in Costa Rica

Imagine a place where natural beauty, warm hospitality, and professional development merge into one incredible experience. Costa Rica, the jewel of Central America, offers precisely that. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, this tropical paradise has emerged as an ideal destination for hotel internships. It´s providing a unique blend of personal growth, enriching life experiences, and valuable career opportunities.

Experience the “Pura Vida” and cross cultures: A hotel internship in Costa Rica

When you embark on a hotel internship in Costa Rica, you’re not only entering the working world, but also a world full of culture and tradition. Costa Rica’s “pura vida” lifestyle, which means “pure life” sums up the country’s philosophy of simplicity, happiness and gratitude. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to live this philosophy and gain a deeper appreciation for the joys of life.

The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish which makes it an excellent destination for language enthusiasts. When you immerse yourself in a Spanish-speaking environment, you not only improve your language skills, but also broaden your cultural horizons. Beyond that, being able to communicate well in a foreign language can help you in your future professional life. And where better to practice a language than in a country where most of the locals don’t speak English? Therefore, you should have an intermediate knowledge of Spanish.

Explore Costa Rica’s Natural Wonders and Hotel Internship Opportunities

In your leisure time, you have the opportunity to explore the landscapes and rich biodiversity of the national parks. Costa Rica’s nature offers a variety of attractions to discover. Lush rainforests, heavenly cloud forests, pristine sandy beaches, diverse flora and fauna, and fascinating volcanic landscapes, to name a few. You can also take a day trip to the capital San José. We recommend you to explore the neighboring country Panama – a trip that is really worth it. Intern Hugo was the embodiment of a great work-life balance during his time in Costa Rica. After giving his energy to work, he seamlessly transitioned into a life of adventure.

In the past, we have successfully organized a number of hotel internships in Costa Rica. Our Interns where impressed by the culture and the way of life as well as by the natural diversity of the country. A hotel internship in Costa Rica is not only a professional adventure, but also a formative experience that will shape your character. So, why wait? Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s vibrant culture, contribute to the hotel industry, and unleash your potential for personal and professional growth. Your internship in Costa Rica is not just a job – it’s an adventure, a chapter of self-discovery and a stepping stone to a brighter future.

If you are already convinced to do an internship in Costa Rica, you can find our current internship vacancies here: ⟶ Hotel internship vacancies.

Still not convinced?

We will tell you more about this incredible country that will surely convince you to pack your bags.

Costa Rica has a proud population that is deeply rooted in their traditions and history. It has been shaped by many influences. They are often referred to as one of the happiest people in the world and are known for their warmth and hospitality. Education and health care are actively promoted here, and sustainability is a top priority. This is also evident in the numerous national parks that exist in Costa Rica.

With its stunning natural beauty and friendly locals, it is no wonder that Costa Rica has become one of the most popular travel destinations in the last few years. It is also an exciting and captivating place that attracts travelers from all over the world. If you’re considering doing a hotel internship, Costa Rica is the perfect place to gain valuable experience thanks to its thriving tourism industry.

How to describe Costa Rica in 3 words?

Happiness – Coffee – Jungle

Probably this says it all: “Pura Vida”! This resembles the whole lifestyle and the attitude in one of the 20 countries in Latin America. People in Costa Rica are well-known for their happiness. Luckily, our italian explorer Christopher Columbus, became the first European to discover the country, marking the initiation of a significant historical encounter with the indigenous inhabitants. Nowadays, in every town or village you will find the “holy trinity” of community life – a church, a bar and a football pitch. These three elements have an almost sacred significance in the lives of Ticos and serve as pillars of social, cultural and emotional fulfilment.

Before doing your internship in Costa Rica you should know at least some main facts:

Costa Rica, a country with a 300-year history as a Spanish colony, gained its independence in 1838 and establishing Spanish as its official language. Located in Central America, Costa Rica is home to approximately 5.1 million people. 30 % of its population residing in the capital, San José. Additionally, the nation serves as a geographic bridge between North and South America. It’s worth noting that a significant portion of the bananas you might have bought likely originates from Costa Rica. It stands as the world’s second-largest banana exporter, trailing only behind Ecuador.

Coffee lovers

For the coffee addicts among us: you will probably visit Coffee Heaven. Thanks to the combination of climate, altitude and volcanic soil in Costa Rica’s coffee regions, the beans retain their exquisite taste. Plus, the Ticos are really precise when it comes to this topic. In Costa Rica, the equivalent of wine tasters in France are the catadores (coffee tasting specialists). They have a special training of 5 years. An indication to recognise high quality coffee: If it tastes good when cold, it is definitely good. Due to these conditions and the catadores, it does not matter whether the coffee is enjoyed hot or cold.

One of the reasons to do an internship in Costa Rica is, obviously, the food. Costa Rican cuisine is simply a must for all foodies. From various exotic fruits like coconuts, mammon chino to pejibaje, the cuisine has a lot to offer. A traditional Costa Rican dish must – yes, must – consist of meat, rice with beans (which they eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner – always), potatoes, vegetables and the famous Salsa Lizano. This salsa is a traditional Costa Rican sauce that is similar to Worchester sauce and is on the table in all restaurants. Beyond that, Costa Rica’s culinary offerings also extend to delicious street food such as empanadas, tamales and plantains.

Peace and nature

If you’re an enthusiast of adventure, nature, and wildlife, Costa Rica will leave you in awe! This country offers a wide range of fascinating landmarks. This includs untouched beaches and jungles where the melodies of singing birds are heard. If you look up into the trees, you might discover a curious sloth watching you from above. The jungle is a sanctuary for a variety of animals, many of which you’ve probably only seen on TV including jaguars, howler monkeys, sloths and a variety of colourful birds. Costa Rica’s natural wonders promise an unforgettable experience with the beauty of the wild.

The Costa Rican landscape is a masterpiece of nature, criss-crossed by rivers that create unique ecosystems for exotic animals such as caimans and river otters. During your visit, you can observe the toucan birds, similar to the colourful characters in the animated wonderland of “Rio”. Hiking through this paradise, you may stumble upon secret glens where cascading waterfalls create idyllic oases. They invite travellers to cool off and relax in their crystal-clear pools. Such accidental discoveries will complement your adventure in Costa Rica.

How can you not be happy in such a place? Therefore, it is no wonder that Costa Rica has no army. The army was abolished by the government in 1948. Peace, neutrality and freedom – this is what Costa Rica stands for and lives to the fullest every day. For more information about Costa Rica please go to ⟶ About Costa Rica.

3 Cultural differences between Costa Rica and Europe

Before you begin with your hotel internship in Costa Rica, it is important to familiarise yourself with the cultural differences between Costa Rica and Europe. Research and familiarise yourself with both European and Costa Rican cultures. This involves their values and customs, as well as social norms and manners in the workplace. This knowledge will be of great use during your internship in Costa Rica.

1. Respect Hierarchy and Formality
European workplaces often have a more formal hierarchy, with clear distinctions between managers and employees. In Costa Rica, workplaces may be less formal, but it’s essential to show respect to supervisors and senior colleagues.

2. Communication Styles
Europeans tend to value direct and concise communication, while Costa Ricans may prefer a more indirect and polite approach. Be patient, listen actively, and adapt your communication style to accommodate these differences.

3. Time Management
European cultures often emphasize punctuality and efficient time management. In contrast, Costa Rica has a more flexible approach to time. Adapt to local norms while maintaining your own commitment to deadlines.

In conclusion, you can see that Costa Rica is the ideal destination for your hotel internship with its diverse history, vibrant culture and numerous internship opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to improve your skills and dive into the Pura Vida lifestyle while doing your hotel internship. Your road to success starts here!

More about Costa Rica

Our vacancies

Application

The post Do your internship in Costa Rica! appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Excursions during your practical training in Tenerife

Conny — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 13:33:02 +0000

Around the island in one day

Our practical training here in Tenerife has been incredible. Since we have two days off each week, we decided to make the most of it by exploring more of the island, and so we rented a car for a little road trip. Our internship is based in Los Cristianos, but for our two days off we booked accommodation in Icod de los Vinos.

On Friday evening after work, we met up with our family who came to visit and all headed to our accommodation together. It had a pool overlooking Icod and the ocean, so naturally we spent some time swimming and relaxing. Afterwards, we enjoyed a lovely dinner and ended the night playing card games.
Saturday started with a delicious breakfast. Our first stop was the famous Dragon Tree in Icod “Drago de Icod de los Vinos”, which we checked out briefly before hitting the road again. From there we drove to Playa de las Teresitas, which is a beautiful beach where we soaked up the sun, read our books, and tanned for a couple of hours. 🌊☀️ Our next destination was “Arco de Tajao”, a volcanic rock arch formed by wind and water erosion. It’s easy to reach and the dramatic, desert-like scenery makes it perfect for taking photos.

From “Arco de Tajao” we continued on to El Médano, where we strolled around town, browsed the cute surf shops, and enjoyed coffee and lunch. After that, we headed back towards Playa de las Vistas, which is a beach we often visit since we live in Los Cristianos. We laid down for a bit of extra beach time and played a few more card games. 🏖️🌴

Doing your practical training in the Canary Islands is such a fantastic opportunity, especially because it’s such a great destination for family and friends to come and visit. In the late afternoon, we planned to drive to Los Gigantes to watch the sunset, but then we changed our minds and drove up Mount Teide instead. The drive itself is stunning — the rock formations and natural scenery took our breath away. We stopped at about 2,000 meters altitude and watched the sunset while enjoying a little picnic we’d packed on the way. 🌅

Although we spent quite a bit of time in the car, all of these places are actually fairly close when you have your own vehicle. We can definitely recommend renting a car, especially if you have visiting family or friends who enjoy exploring as much as you do, like in our case. After sunset, we drove back to Icod de los Vinos.

And that’s how we managed to drive around Tenerife in just one day!
If you ever have the chance to go abroad during your studies — take it, and do your practical training in Tenerife. You will love it!

Ethical whale watching during our practical training in Tenerife

Now that our 6-month practical training in Tenerife is coming to an end, we’ve been reflecting on all the amazing experiences we’ve had and there’s one trip we absolutely have to recommend. Trust us, we’ve done it four times already! 🐳

Each time we went on this Whale watching tour, we saw whales—and on some days, even dolphins. The first time was right at the beginning of our internship. We booked the tour through GetYourGuide, boarded the boat in Los Cristianos, and set off into the ocean. We were beyond excited. And then, just as we reached the first stop, we spotted whales right away. The boat’s engine was turned off, and instead of chasing the animals, everyone just quietly watched and appreciated these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

It really matters to us that the animals aren’t disturbed or herded together, which is why we specifically recommend booking with the boat “Lady Tenerife.” The crew is respectful of marine life, and the boat itself is smaller, which means fewer people and a much more intimate experience.

Each trip was different, and we saw more whales every time. Once, we were lucky enough to see a whole family of eight pilot whales including a baby! 🐳 After that stop, “Lady Tenerife” heads toward a nearby fish farm, where you might also get lucky and spot bottlenose dolphins. 🐬 On our first trip, we didn’t see any dolphins, but on the next three, we did! We even saw a few sea turtles along the way. 🐢

The tour also includes a stop by the so-called “Love Cave.” On sunny days, it’s especially beautiful, and you’ll often see people kayaking nearby.

Before heading back to Los Cristianos, there’s one final stop where everyone gets the chance to jump into the water and cool off—it’s the perfect way to end the trip. 🥰☀️🌊

Each time we went, there was something new to discover. We learned so much about the marine life and the island of Tenerife, and every time, we brought someone new along to share this amazing experience with us. The tour is peaceful, respectful of nature, and just one of those unforgettable things you have to do if you’re ever in Tenerife. ☀️💕🌴

A trip to Los Gigantes

At the beginning of our practical training in Los Cristianos, located in the south of Tenerife, we decided to explore part of the island. We had heard about Los Gigantes, which is a stunning coastal town on the island’s west coast, famous for its massive cliffs, the Acantilados de Los Gigantes. Naturally, we were curious to see it for ourselves, so we hopped on a bus and made our way along the scenic west coast. 🌊🌴

To be honest, the journey there wasn’t great. The route is really hilly, which we expected since it’s an island, but what we didn’t expect was ending up on a bus that made 43 stops before finally reaching Los Gigantes. If you’re prone to motion sickness, like us, we definitely recommend checking the route beforehand and choosing a more direct bus. By the time we arrived, we felt so queasy that we had to sit down in a café, get something to eat and drink, and just recover for a bit.

Thankfully, we felt better not long after, and we continued our walk toward a natural pool with a view of the cliffs. Despite the rough start, we were so glad we went. The view was absolutely stunning and those towering cliffs felt almost majestic. The waves were strong that day, and they kept splashing into the natural pool, which made it even more dramatic.

If you go, be careful near the edge of the pool. The waves can be powerful and potentially dangerous if you get too close since they can pull you into the open ocean. That said, we did go in, and with caution, it was a lot of fun. It was a really fun experience and the perfect spot to cool off.

We recommend visiting in the morning like we did. When we arrived, there were hardly any people around, and we had the natural pool all to ourselves for a while. The nearby black sand beach is a beautiful reminder that Tenerife was shaped by volcanic activity. 🌋🏖️ The water is crystal clear, and the area is also a popular spot for snorkeling, boat tours, as well as whale and dolphin watching. We didn’t do those activities that day, but we’re definitely planning to come back and try them.

As the day went on and more people arrived, we decided to take a long, relaxing walk through the peaceful town. We passed by several great-looking seafood restaurants and enjoyed the view of the charming harbor.

Los Gigantes is the kind of place that’s perfect for a slow, peaceful day. Whether you’re there to take in the views or explore the marine life, it has something special to offer. We’re lucky that our internship lasts six months, so we have plenty of time to return and discover even more.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant, then made our way to the Los Gigantes viewpoint to watch the sunset. 🌅 It truly takes your breath away. We ended our day with a few snacks and some card games, while watching the sun set at this incredible place – simple, relaxing, and just the way we like it. 🌊🥰

A road trip during our practical training in Tenerife

Last weekend we decided to see something new from the island instead of lying at the beach. The trip during our practical training in Tenerife was definitely worth giving up our much-loved beach day! We have started with a self-prepared picnic at the beach of the surfer village El Medano. 🏄🏼 While enjoying our meal we watched the surfers. After we walked through the small town with various beautiful little restaurants and alternative shops. Among all those restaurants and bars, we found our new favorite place – a little Crepería with a wide range of sweet and savory Crepes.

The next morning started early with a visit in a German bakery and the vegetable market in Las Chafiras, where we bought fresh, regional and healthy foods for the coming week. Afterwards, we drove to San Juan. We had our first relaxed break on the dark sandy beach and enjoyed delicious, fresh fish from the Canarian region in a small, relatively tourist-free restaurant in the heart of town. The second beach we went to was in Puerto de Santiago and was black, sandy and sparkling – amazing! Due to some unexpected big waves in this small bay all of us had a lot of fun in the water. 🌊

Of course, we also went to see Los Gigantes – which is, even from the land, an incredible view but the next time we want to see these amazing cliffs directly from a boat!

To wrap up the day nicely, we went back to the Crepería in El Medano. 😉 At the very end of this wonderful day we have had tea, nachos and dates with bacon in a nice tapas bar.

After a second vegetable market on Sunday (this time in Adeje) we went to the highest village on Tenerife – Vilaflor. There we have found the most delicious self-made lemon cookies in a little supermarket – that was amazing! Vilaflor is a small and quiet village with many ´senderos´ (hiking routes) starting from here. It is the last village before the National Park. A very good option if you want to have a relaxed day with lemon cookies :). Our secret tip: There’s a large open barbecue area called Las Lajas. All you need to bring is charcoal, some drinks, meat, vegetables—and a few friends—to enjoy a great day surrounded by nature! Good music and interesting unknown places made our weekend perfect for exploring more of Tenerife.

If you have also had some great experiences during your practical training in Tenerife or you know must-see places – let us know!

Our bus trip to Teide – Icod de los Vinos – Garachico – Masca

The journey started at 9.30 am at the bus station, where we were picked up. We decided for a bus trip because we didn’t want to drive by ourselves. The bus driver mastered the risky route and we had the chance to relax and enjoy the lovely views. 🙂😎

As our guide was extremely good at languages, we were lucky and got all explanations in four languages, even in our mother tongue. Apart from that, he was very experienced and this is why he told us many interesting aspects on the way to our destinations, for example about the Guanches, the origin of the name Vilaflor, etc.

The first station of the excursion was the National Park of Las Cañadas del Teide. During winter time it is getting fresh here on this height and the top of the mountain can be covered with snow. ⛰️

Afterwards we travelled to Icod de los Vinos, where we have seen the old famous Dragon Tree, which is one of the symbols of the Canary Islands. Furthermore, it is worth to look at the magnificent traditional architecture of Icod. The village is also well-known for the possibility to taste local delights like wine, jam, liquor, etc. 😋🍷

We continued our journey taking the northern coastal route to visit the beautiful village at the coast Garachico. Unfortunately, there was no time for making a break and swimming in the natural pools.

Finally, we had a stop in Masca, a small mountain village famous for its beautiful landscape. Masca is the starting point for a very popular hike through the canyon to the sea, which we will explore very soon. Drinking a barraquito and enjoying the sunset, this place was an ideal last station for a wonderful trip.

For the price paid, it is definitively worth booking this kind of trip during your practical training in Tenerife in order to get a first impression of the different landscapes on the Island. Of course, there wasn’t any time left to hike or swim, especially if you lose two passengers who aren’t able to get on the right bus again. 😀

Do you love being in the water and the rush of adrenalin?

Spending the summer months in Tenerife for your hotel internship? A day at the water park is the perfect way to cool off and have some fun! 🙂

Besides the world-wide-known Siam Park, Tenerife has another small but beautiful water park, the so called Aqualand. Although Aqualand is a bit smaller than Siam Park, it is definitely worth to spend a day in this great water park. Unlike Europe’s largest water park Siam Park, which is especially for tourists, the majority of Aqualand’s visitors are locals who just want to spend a relaxed day with their family in the water park. While the parents are enjoying a “siesta” in the midday sun, the kids are having fun by slipping over 15 water slides. And that´s also what we did! 🛝

Arrived at Aqualand, we grabbed a floating tire and tried the first water slides. It didn’t take long at Aqualand for us to realize that this water park had much more to offer than we expected. Our highlight at Aqualand was the dolphin show! 🐬 Once a day, they perform a dolphin show for dolphin lovers. We really enjoyed the dolphin show of Loro Parque which is located in the north of Tenerife. However, the show in Aqualand was even better. We absolutely loved the show and it is definitely worth to see! To have a remaining memory of this exciting day, we paid 20 Euro to get a photo with the dolphins. We are happy that we took the chance of making such a beautiful photo with these impressing animals! 🙂

Go and visit Aqualand to make your own experience in this great water park! Then you will understand why spending a day in this park is marvellous.

We wish you a lot of fun! 😃

Hiking to Paisaje Lunar during your internship on Tenerife

A few weeks ago, some Spanish friends told us about the “Paisaje Lunar” on Tenerife. The translated “moon landscape” is a place near Teide where you can hike to and admire the spectacular views of the terrain which seems to be like the moon. With hikes taking you from Vilaflor to Granadilla and other places, there is ample opportunity to enjoy the wonderful landscape around Teide, the volcano on Tenerife. On a clear day it is possible to see Gran Canaria and La Gomera along the route. A walk around Los Escurriales is perfect for a short but scenic outing. Los Escurriales is a beautiful rocky coastal area on Tenerife, known for its quiet coves and stunning ocean views.

Along the way, you can also see the famous Paisaje Lunar (“Moon Landscape”), a unique volcanic rock formation that looks otherworldly. During the spring months, the walk becomes even more special as the Tajinastes bloom, which are striking native plants of Tenerife, known for their tall spikes covered in vibrant red or blue flowers. It’s a wonderful way to experience the island’s natural beauty up close. ⛰️☀️

We, the S-W-E-P interns, decided to go there for a hike last weekend with our Spanish friends, which we were happy to have with us because the starting points for the hike are quite hard to find. We took a (more or less) short hike around Los Escurriales to see Paisaje Lunar and went along another route back to the car. Our trip started with a lovely picnic of homemade bocadillos and fresh fruit. Along the way, we stopped to take photos of the landscape and each other. We also took time to watch the lizards, which are everywhere around Teide.

Altogether, the hike took us about four hours. You have a great variety of different “senderos”, which means hiking trails or walking paths in Spanish, around the base of Teide and neighboring areas. You can choose if you want to spend a whole day or only a few hours – whatever you like the best!

Thanks to the sunny weather we had the chance to see unique views of Gran Canaria and La Gomera and had a lot of fun while we were walking through the forest and enjoying the air, which is amazingly fresh being up so high. 🏞️ Afterwards we went to a cafetería and had an ice-cold coca cola to relax before we went on our way back home. Of course, we joined the beach for the afternoon to spend the rest of the Saturday in a more relaxing atmosphere and to recover from the trip :).

All in all, it was a great weekend with a nice trip and spectacular views on the Tenerife landscape. If you feel like hiking this is a perfect place to go during your practical training in Tenerife! 🌴

More about Tenerife

Language Courses

Application

The post Excursions during your practical training in Tenerife appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internship on Gran Canaria – Top 10 for your internship

Conny — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 11:00:24 +0000

10 things you should have seen during your internship on Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is often called a “mini continent” because of its incredible variety of landscapes. The island offers everything from golden beaches over sand dunes to green forests and dramatic mountains, making it a perfect place for exploration for our interns. If you’re lucky enough to do your internship on Gran Canaria, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore everything this unique island has to offer. 🌴🏖️

Make the most of your Gran Canaria internship with our interns’ top 10 must-see spots you can’t miss. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these destinations will make your time on the island unforgettable! ☀️

1. Maspalomas Dunes: The ultimate must-see during your internship on Gran Canaria

Starting off with the ultimate must see, and the number one on our list, according to our interns, are the Maspalomas Dunes. The magical dunes of Maspalomas have been a nature reserve since 1987. One might wonder how the dunes were formed.

There are two theories:

One theory is that the dunes were created by erosion. Wind and waves broke the rocks down into sand, which was carried to the shore by the tides. Strong winds then blew the sand inland, where it built up on obstacles and formed dunes. The process supposedly took around 10,000 years to shape the landscape we see today.

Another theory, proposed by scientists of the university in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, says that the dunes were formed in 1755 due to a tsunami, which originated from the earthquakes in Portugal. This brought huge amounts of sand to the shore of Gran Canaria.

Until today we are not sure how the small desert of the Atlantic Ocean was formed. We do know that you must visit it when doing your internship on Gran Canaria like one if our interns on this photo!

The dunes are located between the beach “Playa de Ingles” and the lighthouse “Faro de Maspalomas”. We advise you to visit the dunes either in the morning or in the evening. The sand can get quite hot during the day.

You can go for a walk and enjoy the sand under your feet. Or you can relax on the back of a camel and take in all the beauty of this magical place. Afterwards you can sit down on the golden sand and wait until the sun sets to see one of the most beautiful sunsets ever. 😍

2. Puerto de Mogán: The Venice of the Canary Islands

Next is Puerto de Mogán, often called the ‘Venice of the Canary Islands.’ Once a humble fishing village, it has become a peaceful haven for those seeking to escape the island’s busier tourist areas.

Known for its relaxed atmosphere and charm, Puerto de Mogán lives up to its nickname, “Little Venice,” with its waterways and little bridges. These waterways were originally designed with a practical purpose in mind: to divert rainwater and prevent flooding.

The village’s Italian-inspired flair and its resemblance to Venice are the result of thoughtful planning and careful decoration with vibrant flowers and plants.

Puerto de Mogán offers a perfect setting for strolls through its alleys and colorful streets, relaxing in a café while people-watching, or taking a peaceful walk along the Mogán Marina.

Our hotel interns put this charming village at number two on the must-see list and say it’s absolutely worth a visit.
On Fridays, the local market brings the village to life, offering unique souvenirs for yourself or loved ones.

Imagine this: after finishing your workday at your internship on Gran Canaria, you take a walk through this charming village. You admire the little blue and white fishermen’s houses. Then you head towards the “Mirador de Puerto de Mogán” for a stunning view of the entire village. From there, you continue your walk along the marina, passing cozy cafes and restaurants. Eventually, you reach Playa Mogán, where you sit down to watch the sun end the day.

Sounds perfect, right? 🥰

3. Roque Nublo: Be on Top of the World

Next on your bucket list for your internship on Gran Canaria is a spot that makes you truly feel like you are on top of the world; Roque Nublo.

Rising 1,813 meters above sea level, this dramatic volcanic rock stands proudly in the center of the island. With its 80-meter-high formation, it ranks among the tallest free-standing monoliths in the world.

Don’t forget to check out the frog-shaped rock that sits right next to Roque Nublo!

The hike to these iconic landmarks begins at the La Goleta parking lot and takes around 45 minutes. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, you can take the circular hiking trail around the area, just like we did.

It’s approximately 5 kilometers long and usually much quieter than the main viewing platform at Roque Nublo. The perfect peaceful escape into nature.

When you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to one of the best panoramic views on the island.

Remember to wear proper shoes! 🥾

4. Pico de las Nieves

Our hotel interns rated Pico de las Nieves, the island’s second-highest mountain at 1,949 meters, as the fourth must-see attraction. Sitting above the clouds, it offers a truly breath-taking panoramic view.

This unique location deserves also a spot on your bucket list when doing your internship on Gran Canaria. The lookout point at Pico de las Nieves is accessible by car, bike, or on foot. There’s a parking lot available for those taking the easy route by car. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can hike up to the viewpoint. And for those who really want to break a sweat, cycling to the top is an option, though definitely not one we took! 🚴‍♀️🌋

Once at the lookout, we were rewarded with a stunning view over Gran Canaria. A small food truck at the top offers snacks, making it a perfect spot to take in the scenery. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the Mount Teide on Tenerife.

From this vantage point, we could also see the famous Roque Nublo, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. If you’re up for a short walk, a footpath leads down to Roque Nublo itself.

Pico de las Nieves also serves as the starting point of the Ruta de Plata. It is also known as the Silver Route, a historic 9.6-kilometer-long trail once used for transporting large livestock. Today, it is a popular hiking route, offering breath taking landscapes along the way.

If Pico de las Nieves isn’t enough for you, take a short five-minute walk to Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve, which, at 1,956 meters, holds the title of Gran Canaria’s highest mountain. 🏔️

5. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has something for everyone. Whether you want to tan at the beach, walk through the city or dive into the culture, Las Palmas has you covered.

The beach “Playa de las Canteras” in Las Palmas is three kilometers long and has a spot for everybody. The beach offers a surfing area, a peaceful space to soak up the sun, and the perfect spot for snorkelling to explore the underwater world.

But Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is much more than just a beach destination.

The historic old town is a must-visit. Take a stroll down Calle Triana, a lively pedestrian street that connects the two districts Vegueta and Triana, lined with beautiful architecture from the 18th to the 20th centuries.

Be sure to explore the Mercado de Vegueta, where you can sample and buy fresh local food. On Thursdays, experience “La Noche de Tapas,” when restaurants in Vegueta serve delicious tapas for just 2-3€. 🥘

In Vegueta, you’ll also find the charming Plaza de Santa Ana, a palm-lined square perfect for relaxing.

Here, we visited the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Las Palmas from its rooftop. The plaza is also home to eight bronze dog statues, a tribute to the island’s heritage and its association with the ‘Canis’ (Latin for dog), from which the name ‘Canary Islands’ is believed to originate.

Dive into the heart of Canarian culture

For those eager to step back in time, the Museo Canario is an essential stop. Founded in 1879, it showcases the fascinating history and culture of the island’s indigenous people. Inside, you’ll find remarkable artifacts, including jewelry, ceramics, mummies, and much more.

Another very interesting museum located in Las Palmas is the Casa de Colón (Columbus Museum), which explores Christopher Columbus’s voyages and his connection to the Canary Islands. It is claimed that Christopher Columbus stopped on Gran Canaria 1492. While they repaired his ship, he stayed in the house Casa de Colón. Over the years, renovations have transformed the house, so it doesn’t fit into one specific style. It blends Renaissance, Neoclassical, and traditional Canarian architecture. Inside, you can find Pre-Columbian artifacts, including ship models, a replica of a cabin from La Niña (one of Columbus’s ships), navigation tools, nautical maps, and many other items related to Columbus and the Canary Islands’ connection to America.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has something special waiting for you. 💕

While doing your hotel internship on Gran Canaria, you can easily take a bus to the capital and enjoy a day off at the beach while exploring the local culture and traditions.

6. Jardín Canario: The beauty of the Canary Islands

For anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature, especially in its purest form, Jardín Canario is a must-see destination during your practical training on Gran Canaria.

Located just outside Las Palmas, this breathtakingly garden is a true celebration of the island’s unique flora and fauna. 🌵🌺

Founded in 1952 by Swedish botanist Erik Ragnar Svensson, the garden was born from his vision to create a space that showcases the full spectrum of the Canary Islands’ flora and fauna, ensuring each plant and flower has the ideal conditions to thrive.

After seven years of dedicated work, he was able to open the garden’s doors in 1959.

At 27 hectares, Jardín Canario is the largest botanical garden in Spain. The garden is a paradise for nature lovers, with winding paths that lead you through caves, waterfalls, and an incredible variety of plant species. It’s home to the Canary giant lizard (Gallotia Stehlini) and over 300 of the 575 endemic species native to the Canary Islands. 🦎

The vegetation zones of the Canary Islands:

There is a palm garden that features all the palm species native to the Canary Islands, as well as a laurel forest. A bit further on, you’ll find a large grassy area with flower clusters arranged by their island of origin; the “Garden of the Islands”.

The Jardín Canario also includes a special section dedicated to endangered plants and flowers from the Macaronesian Islands, called the “Macaronesian Garden.” Macaronesia consists of four main island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean: Cape Verde, the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Azores. These islands are renowned for their unique flora and exceptional biodiversity.

Additionally, there is a small greenhouse known as the “Hidden Garden”, which houses plants with high moisture demands. The “Garden of the World” showcases representative flora from each continent, offering a global perspective on plant life. Lastly, the “Well of the Wise” pays tribute to the natural scientists who contributed to the exploration and understanding of the Canary Islands’ unique ecosystem.

We also visited the “Restaurante Jardín Canario” located within the garden. From here, we had a beautiful view of the entire garden while enjoying a delicious meal. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

7. Artenara: A very special place to visit for your practical training on Gran Canaria

Far from the beaches and towns of Gran Canaria, there’s a place where the mountains whisper stories and homes are carved into stone.

Welcome to Artenara; the island’s highest village and one of its most soulful destinations.

At first glance, Artenara appeared to be a quiet mountain village. But as we looked closer, we discovered something extraordinary: people live in caves here, and they have for centuries.

These aren’t damp, dark caverns, but real homes, carved into the volcanic rock and passed down through generations.

Some of these caves are open to visitors, showing how life once looked in the simplest, most honest way. Others have been turned into charming stays, meaning you can sleep inside history without sacrificing comfort.

But that’s not all

One of Artenara’s most breathtaking spots is the Mirador de La Atalaya. From this cliffside vantage point, we saw valleys, pine forests, and distant villages spread out below.

Just when you think Artenara can’t get more unique, you’ll find a Cultural Center built into a cave. It’s a small but powerful space, telling the story of the indigenous people who first lived here, and the deep spiritual connection they had with the land. The exhibits are thoughtful and real.

Above the cultural center rises La Cilla, a small mountain crowned by a statue you might not expect. El Sagrado Corazón de Jesús stands tall, with arms outstretched, on a globe supported by angels. Built by José Luis Marrero the statue draws clear inspiration from Rio’s Christ the Redeemer.

Before you we left, we took a walk through the village and stepped inside the Church of San Matías. With its classic Canarian design and peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect place to end our visit on a quiet, reflective note.

Artenara isn’t just the highest village on Gran Canaria, it’s one of the most deeply rooted. In its caves, its cliffs, and its people, there’s a rhythm that hasn’t changed much over time. Come here not for thrill, but for something deeper: perspective, peace, and a new way to see the island. 🏝️

8. Barranco de las Vacas

Gran Canaria is full of surprises, but few are as unexpected as this: a canyon that feels like it belongs in the American Southwest, not on a Spanish island in the Atlantic.

Welcome to Barranco de las Vacas; a short but stunning gorge that has become one of the island’s most photogenic spots.

#barrancodelasvacas can be found all over social media.

Located on the island’s eastern side, this natural wonder is known for its narrow rock passageways and swirling walls of golden tones. The formations are so distinct that many compare it to Antelope Canyon in Arizona, though this is definitely the mini version.

Still, its charm is undeniable.

Locals sometimes refer to it as “Las Tobas de Colores,” which translates to “the colorful rock formations.” And it’s easy to see why. When the sunlight hits just right, the rocks glow with a golden warmth that makes the entire space feel almost otherworldly.

The canyon itself isn’t large. The walk through it only takes 5 to 10 minutes.

But timing matters: visit too early and the canyon may still be in shadow; too late and you might run into crowds all trying to capture the perfect photo. For the best experience, aim for mid-morning around 10 a.m., when sunlight pours in and highlights every curve and layer of the rock.Barranco de las Vacas is located near Agüimes, on the east side of the island. There’s no big sign or flashy entrance. In fact, finding it is part of the adventure. Look for a small tunnel and a short trail that leads down into the pass. Parking is limited, so it’s best to go early and avoid the midday rush.

If you’re exploring during your internship on Gran Canaria and want something truly unique, add this little canyon to your list. Just don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to remember this one. 🥰

An extra tip for your internship on Gran Canaria:

Since this visit will be relatively short, it’s a great idea to combine this stop with other nearby destinations. The charming villages of Santa Lucía and San Bartolomé are close by and offer traditional Canarian food, quiet streets, and a taste of local culture.

Barranco de las Vacas may not have the scale of America’s great canyons, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. It’s a reminder that some of the most beautiful places aren’t the biggest; they’re the ones that surprise you, tucked away in unexpected corners of the world.

9. Amadores Beach: More than just a beach

White sand, turquoise water, swaying palms, and endless sunshine, what more could you ask for?

Welcome to Playa de Amadores! Our interns love and consider this one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria. Although this beach is man-made, it’s nothing short of paradise. In fact, its careful design is part of what makes it so special.

Thanks to its crystal-clear water, well-maintained facilities, and commitment to sustainability, Playa de Amadores has earned the Blue Flag year after year; a mark of clean, safe, and eco-friendly beaches. 🌊

But Playa de Amadores offers more than just sunbathing. If you’re looking for a bit more action, you can rent pedal boats with slides or have fun on giant inflatable climbing towers and water slides, there’s something here for every kind of beach lover.

Looking for a more chilled-out vibe? Just steps from the sand, you’ll find mini-golf, a relaxing spa, and plenty of seaside cafés and bars to sip a drink while soaking up the view.

As the sun sets below the horizon, Playa de Amadores transforms into a nightlife hotspot. With beachfront bars, live DJs, and dance floors under the stars, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away with the ocean breeze at your back.Whether you’re chasing adventure or just want to unwind, Playa de Amadores is a must-visit during your internship on Gran Canaria. Trust us, one visit won’t be enough. 🥰

10. Puerto Rico

Our final stop on our trip through Gran Canaria is the popular town Puerto Rico. Our interns know this town as the sunniest on the island. Almost 12 months of sunshine and blue skies. Here you can find countless beaches, activities, shopping opportunities and much more. ☀️

We took a walk along the marina and admired the boats. Puerto Ricos modern dock has around 530 spots for boats and yachts from 6 to 60 meters.

From here you can take a ferry and explore the neighboring islands.

The 16 kilometer long coast hosts around 20 beaches with each offering multiple water activities. The coastal walk from Puerto Ricos center to the Paya de Amadores is another must do.

The beautiful walk is one kilometer long and took us along the coast to the popular Playa de Amadores that we already mentioned before in this blog. You will not be able to see the beach until you turn right at the last corner of the path.

There, you will be rewarded with the sight of the whole beach surrounded by palms and bright, white sand.

But there’s more to explore than just the sea and the beach. Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria also offers great hiking and cycling routes for our interns who want to discover the landscapes. Moreover, Puerto Rico’s shopping options are quite varied, with everything from malls to markets. 💕

We hope our Top 10 must-see destinations help make your internship on sunny Gran Canaria even more exciting. Enjoy every moment of your time on the island of eternal sunshine! ☀️🏄‍♂️🌊

More about Gran Canaria

Application

Locations

The post Internship on Gran Canaria – Top 10 for your internship appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Top Fiestas during your internships on the Canary Islands

Conny — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 13:00:27 +0000

Intern in the Canary Islands and celebrate life with unique local Fiestas

Thinking about where to go for a memorable internship?
The Canary Islands don’t just offer sunshine and stunning views; they celebrate life with unforgettable festivals. From wild Carnival parades to flower-filled Romerías, the Canary Islands are bursting with unique and colorful traditions all year round. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, watching traditional sports, tasting local dishes, or seeing boats sail in honor of a saint, every fiesta is a chance to connect with the local culture. Get a taste of the island spirit and discover why doing your internships on the Canary Islands is anything but ordinary!

Carnival

Carnival of Santa Cruz (Tenerife) 📍

Experience the magic of Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival during your hotel internships on the Canary Islands! 🎭

During your hotel internships on the Canary Islands with us, you might get the incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most spectacular carnivals — the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It takes place each February-March and is considered the second most popular carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro! ✨

Not only do the music and colors inspire everyone, but the people who join the event also add to the excitement. Each year, a new theme is chosen for the Carnival. It celebrates joy, satire, and cultural expression before lent. The festivities start on a Friday with an opening parade. Over a hundred groups, including musical bands, bring energy and life to the official carnival. Carnival includes parades held during both the day and night, where participants wear imaginative and often funny outfits.

The vibrant Carnival celebrations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Puerto de la Cruz kick off several weeks before the main events, featuring a range of exciting activities, including:

Competitions among Carnival groups, costume contests
Free live concerts
Lively street performances
Various parades full of music and color
The grand election of the Carnival “Reina” (Queen)

In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the “Reina” 👑 (our Carnival Queen) is elected on the Wednesday before Carnival officially begins, with celebrations starting in full swing on Friday. The election is broadcast worldwide, as the candidates parade across the main stage. The jury consists of members of the municipal corporation and various celebrities. In addition, there is a public voting via SMS. Queen candidates wear very heavy and expensive costumes, that is why they rely on wheeled transportation and sponsorships to help them move and fund these extravagant outfits. Designers craft the costumes using feathers, plastic, metal, and paper. Some costumes weigh up to a couple of hundreds of kilograms.

The day-by-day magic of Carnival

The announcement parade on Friday begins at the Parque La Granja, concluding at the Plaza de España. It crosses the Ramblas, Avenida Islas Canarias, Plaza Weyler and Méndez Núñez to return to Las Ramblas, then turning onto the Avenida Anaga and ending at the Plaza de Europa or the Council of Tenerife building. The parade launches the carnival season, as each group proudly joins to announce the start of the festivities.

On Carnival Saturday there are parties around the whole town. The main locations are the Plaza de España and the Plaza del Príncipe with stages and party tents where people from around the world are dancing. Of course, there are many more places to dance. On Carnival Saturday you can find music and dances in all the bars and streets of Santa Cruz.

The Carnival Monday is one of the most fun and vibrant days of the celebration, with people creating a lively carnival party atmosphere. You can find various performances at the main Carnival locations in Santa Cruz, and many open-air shows fill the streets.

The Tuesday is the grand finale of Carnival. The coso parade features a wide variety of participants, including carnival queen candidates, dance groups, musical bands, carnival floats, and performers in extravagant costumes, and runs along the Avenida de Anaga. After the parade, street parties continue, with locals and tourists enjoying music and dancing.

Carnival officially ends on Wednesday with the Burial of the Sardine. Participants carry a giant paper sardine in a funeral procession, followed by howling widows. On this day the catholic church is mocked by the participants who are dressed up as clergyman.

Get ready to celebrate!

According to all the S-W-E-P interns who participated in the festivities in past years, the Carnival is always lots of fun! So, get your costumes on and make your way to Santa Cruz. 🥰 Don´t miss out on the parade on the Tuesday in case you have your day off!

Of course, our interns enjoy carnival in the other cities on Tenerife. After the official festivities conclude in Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz, the celebrations continue in the south of the island. One of the largest and most popular events in this region is the International Carnival of Los Cristianos. 🎭

Carnival in Los Cristianos (Tenerife)📍

All around Los Cristianos, the streets come alive with people gathered, chatting, dancing💃, and celebrating the vibrant spirit of Carnival. The cheerful, festive atmosphere lights up the town, creating a joyful buzz that’s felt everywhere. Even the days before the grand parade begins, the excitement takes over: vendors set up food stalls, a ferris wheel rises above the crowds, and performers dazzle on stage with drag queen acts, energetic dances, and more. Our S-W-E-P interns and everyone else wear colorful costumes, embracing the celebration with open hearts and wide smiles.
Carnival fever spreads across all the Canary Islands, so no matter where you’re doing your internships on the Canary Islands, you’ll be part of the festivities!

Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria) 📍

A vibrant carnival with drag queen contests, parades, and music. It is famous for its Drag Queen Gala, which became internationally famous for its spectacular costumes, choreography, and boundary-pushing performances.

Carnival of Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) 📍

Held in the famous tourist region, this carnival blends traditional celebrations with vibrant beachside parties. The event is famous for its diversity and welcoming spirit, attracting visitors from all over the world, including a large LGBTQ+ audience.

Carnival event Los Indianos (La Palma) 📍

A unique event where everyone dresses in white and playfully throws talcum powder at each other, symbolizing Canarian emigrants returning from Latin America. This particular event is very well known and a special highlight of the Carnival festivities.

And more…📍

Each island adds its own unique twist to the celebration, making every Carnival experience truly one of a kind.

From breathtaking parades to all-night celebrations, this once-in-a-lifetime experience will make your internships on the Canary Islands unforgettable!!!

Día de Canarias

Celebrate the Spirit of the Canary Islands on Día de Canarias! 🌴🎉🍷🌞

Every year on May 30th, the Canary Islands come alive with pride, tradition, and celebration! As a public holiday across the archipelago, Día de Canarias marks the anniversary of the very first session of the Canary Islands’ Parliament in 1983, led by the region’s first president, Pedro Guerra Cabrera. This day goes beyond a historical milestone; it vibrantly pays tribute to Canarian culture through traditional music, sports, food, and family gatherings. From lively folk performances to delicious local cuisine, it’s the perfect time to experience the true essence of Canarian identity!

History – A long road to Autonomy

The dream of autonomy for the Canary Islands began during the Second Spanish Republic, but the Franco dictatorship put an end to any hopes of autonomy for 46 years. It wasn’t until August 10th, 1982, that the Spanish Parliament in Madrid finally granted the Canary Islands their long-awaited autonomous status with even greater co-determination rights than any mainland Spanish region. A milestone that shaped modern Canarian history.
For Canarians today, autonomy is more than just a political status, it’s a symbol of their unique identity, culture, and the hard-fought right to shape their own future.

Celebration of culture, pride, and tradition during your internships on the Canary Islands

The main goal for Canarians is to showcase their tradition and pride in being a Canarian. They take particular pride in their traditional costumes on this day. Similar to the “Romerías”, each island has different traditional costumes that emphasize one’s origin.

Additionally, they celebrate by playing Canarian folks’ music with typical instruments like the “Timple”, which is a traditional Canarian string instrument and similar to a small guitar or ukelele. It usually has five strings and is played with the fingers or a pick. 💃🎸

Furthermore, there are a few sports that are only exercised on the Canary Islands. One example is “Lucha Canaria”, the Canarian Wrestling. 🏆

Lucha Canaria is not just a sport – it’s a living testament to Canarian heritage, passed down through generations. Historical records suggest that the native inhabitants once used it as a way to resolve disputes over land and territory. Today, this tradition remains as vibrant as ever, with each generation following the same traditional rules.

Fights take place in a circular sand arena know as a “terrero”, where two opponents challenge one another. The goal? To bring the opponent to the ground, making them touch the sand with any part of their body. Wrestlers use a mix of strength, skill, and strategy “mañas”. However, it’s not just about strength, analyzing the opponent’s weaknesses and outsmarting them is just as crucial.

Nevertheless, at its core, Lucha Canaria is built on respect and sportsmanship. Opponents embrace before the fight and shake hands afterward, which highlights the sport’s core value and keeps the camaraderie alive. 🤝😃

Our interns recommend taking the opportunity to try the local cuisine, watch “Lucha Canaria”, and celebrate Dia de Canarias with the Canarians during your internship to experience the culture and traditions of the locals. 💃💕

Romerías

Imagine you and your best friend are doing your internships on the Canary Islands, organized by us, while diving into the island’s rich cultural traditions – Romerías are the perfect way to do just that! These vibrant, traditional Catholic festivals happen between April and September and celebrate much more than just faith; they fill the air with culture, music, and fun. What makes them even more exciting? Communities hold Romerías at different times across all towns on the islands, so if you are lucky, you can join more than one festival. 🎉🍷 These festivals trace their roots to religious pilgrimages, originally inspired by people traveling to Rome, as the word ‘romero’ suggests.
Each place has its own unique twist on the Romería tradition, but one thing remains the same: it’s a festival full of life, community, and gratitude. 💕

Let’s take Tenerife📍 as an example, here, like in many other places, cities hold their Romerías to honor a saint, of who they believed has helped secure a good harvest. For this reason, food and beverages play such an important role in the festivities. Romerías were once an event for the upper class but have transformed into an inclusive religious festival open to everyone, with each town celebrating its own patron saint in a distinct way.

Religious traditions and regional highlights

The festival season officially begins on the last Sunday in April, with Tegueste📍 hosting Tenerife’s first and usually largest Romería. The festivities kick off with the election of the “Romera Mayor” 👑, the festival queen, before the streets transform into a fairground filled with traditional competitions. Participants, known as “romeros”, dress in traditional Canarian attire and offer local produce, wine, and food as they journey through the streets of Tegueste. The Romería itself is a vibrant celebration featuring traditional “barcos” (decorated carts), “danza de las flores” (dance of the flowers), and folkloric music.

This festivity follows a religious background centered around natural products, livestock, and traditional costumes. A priest blesses the livestock, and the people make an offering to the saint before and after the parade. Disclaimer: That offering does NOT involve animals but consists of carefully selected natural products.

In general, the Romerías in the north of Tenerife tend to be much larger than those in the south. Garachico📍 hosts the most spectacular celebration, and locals decorate the floats elaborately and breathtakingly. This mid-august festival is the highlight of the season and truly a must-see event. 🎉🍇🍌🍷

The Baile de Magos💃, or “country folk dance” 🕺🏼, is a fun, traditional celebration typically held the Sunday before the Romería in towns across the Canary Islands. It’s an exciting mix of traditional music, colorful traditional costumes, and dances. Originating in Tenerife, this vibrant dance is also enjoyed on other islands, though it shines brightest on Tenerife. ✨🌴 Don’t miss out on this cultural experience and make sure to rent or buy a traditional outfit to truly join the fun.

Internships on the Canary Islands: Dive into local culture with Romerías

Our interns always say it’s an exciting cultural experience you simply cannot miss during your internship! Imagine walking alongside decorated ox carts, hearing the sound of traditional drums and guitars, and being part of a community that opens its arms to everyone. Whether you’re on Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, or Fuerteventura, a Romería is the perfect chance to connect with locals and truly feel the Canarian spirit.

Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen: Canarian culture in motion

You and your new friends would like to experience a culturally and religiously meaningful event during your internships on the Canary Islands? ☀️🥂🥳

Then you have got to join the celebration “Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen”, which takes place every year in July in honor to Virgin Mary, as the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. The festival focuses on asking for protection for seafarers. Both locals and tourists eagerly attend this special festivity. The festivities have their roots in a Catholic tradition, especially prominent on Tenerife, but also take place on all the other Canary Islands📍.

A celebration that sets sail with music, dancing, and traditional food

The impressive procession forms a central part of the celebration. In many coastal towns, a statue of the Virgin Mary is carried by the faithful in a respectful and moving ceremony through the streets, eventually making its way to the sea. 🌊 In Puerto de la Cruz📍, for instance, this tradition peaks when people set the statue on a festively decorated boat and sailing across the water alongside a lively escort of fishing boats and yachts. ⛵This powerful maritime procession represents a symbolic gesture asking for the Virgin’s protection over the sea and its people.

The Fiestas del Virgen del Carmen are more than just religious events, they are vibrant folk festivals filled with culture, color, and community spirit. Believers festively decorate churches and attend services to express their gratitude and present their wishes to the patron saint. But it’s not just about faith, it’s a celebration that truly comes to life with traditional music, lively dancing💃🏼, and delicious local food. Traditional “parrandas” fill the streets with Canarian rhythms, inviting everyone to dance and enjoy the moment. Streets and market squares come alive with the scent of local cuisine, with stands offering Canarian specialities like “papas arrugadas” and spicy “mojo”.

As night falls, dazzling fireworks light up the sky and mark the end of the festivities. Many families consider this celebration the highlight of the year – a cherished occasion to come together in faith and joy. The Fiestas del Virgen del Carmen beautifully show how deeply tradition, religion, and community intertwine in Tenerife and across the Canary Islands. 🥳☀️

Fiesta de la Rama: A cultural highlight for internships on the Canary Islands

Imagine the excitement on August 4th, when the town of Agaete📍 in northern Gran Canaria comes alive with a vibrant celebration. At 5 a.m., the festivities kick off with fireworks to announce the start of one of the island’s most beloved festivals: the Fiesta de la Rama.

Every year, this event honors Nuestra Señora de Las Nieves (Our Lady of the Snows), whose image remains in Puerto de las Nieves year-round, except from August 5-17, when the church moves it temporarily to the Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción in the town center. The festival, which has been recognized as a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest since 1972, is a profound expression of the island’s cultural identity.

Let the celebration begin

The highlight of the fiesta is the “Bajada de la Rama” at 10 a.m., where thousands of locals and visitors gather in the streets, eagerly picking up branches “ramas🌿” placed by the town hall in the Callejón de la Rama. Participants dance💃🏼 their way up the hills toward the Virgen de Las Nieves Sanctuary. The crowd transforms into a sea of green dancers, all moving in unison as the music from the two municipal bands fills the air.

What makes this event even more spectacular is the presence of giant “papagüevos”, large papier-mâché figures with oversized, comical heads that represent popular local characters. They lead the procession, making their way through the crowd. The whole town transforms into a moving forest, with everyone joining the vibrant green wave that winds its way through the streets, creating a truly unique and authentic experience.

While people celebrate most in Agaete, Gran Canaria, people honor this tradition throughout all the Canary Islands. You won’t want to miss this experience, so if you are S-W-E-P interns doing your internships on the Canary Islands, go get the “ramas” on August 4th and join the celebration of the island’s rich cultures while discovering the deep connection to nature. 🌴☀️

Fiesta de San Andrés: Slide, Sip, Celebrate

Every year on the night of November 29th, you can see people on wooden boards sliding down the streets and drinking lots of wine. 🍷 You might wonder, that sounds fun what is that about? That is the Fiesta de San Andrés. 🎉 Another fiesta that our interns like to enjoy.

The fiesta de San Andrés is mainly celebrated in northern Tenerife📍, especially in towns like Icod de los Vinos and Puerto de la Cruz. Even though the festival bears the name of the patron saint, San Andrés, its origin lies more in wine-making traditions than in religious rituals. It marks the opening of the wine cellars and locals first taste the new wine here after the grape harvest🍇. Townspeople began turning it into a special occasion by sharing with their neighbors and friends. Over time, the celebration evolved into a festival full of local pride, fun, and tradition.

Where tradition echoes through the streets

In the evening, the streets come alive with a tradition called “Los Cacharros”. Adults, but especially children and teenagers, tie strings of pots, cans, scrap metal, and pans together and drag them noisily down the streets, particularly those with steep inclines, creating a sound that echoes through the town. Originally, people may have started this tradition to ‘wake up’ the barrels and signal the town that the new wine was ready to enjoy. 🥳🍷

Another very fun and spectacular tradition taking place in Icod de los Vinos📍, is known as “Las Tablas”, where young people slide down the streets on wooden boards. They ride down on large planks polished with wax and can build up speed easily, all surrounded by enthusiastic crowds cheering them on.

Not to be missed, families and friends make the Fiesta de San Andrés complete by enjoying the lively atmosphere with roasted chestnuts, Canarian delicacies, and most importantly plenty of local wine. 🍷 Town squares fill with parties, music, and food, creating a true sensory experience that blends heritage and youthful energy.

Sounds like lots of run right? So, if you are S-W-E-P interns doing your internships on the Canary Islands, you should definitely join the celebration and experience the vibe with the locals! 🌴🥳

Your internships on the Canary Islands filled with music, culture, and sunshine

No matter which festivity you take part in, whether it’s the colorful Carnival, the lively Romerías, or the unique Fiesta de la Rama, you’ll experience the rich cultural heart of the Canary Islands. Local traditions, music, food, and the joyful spirit of the people shape each celebration’s story. From dancing in the streets to tasting traditional dishes and wearing Canarian costumes, these moments are unforgettable highlights of any internship experience. Join in, celebrate with the locals, and create lasting memories while you discover the soul of the islands. ☀️🏖️🌊💖

Our vacancies

Spanish Crash Course

Language Courses

The post Top Fiestas during your internships on the Canary Islands appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Spanish Cuisine – practical training in Spain

Conny — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 13:00:09 +0000

Exploring the Spanish cuisine during your practical training in Spain

The Spanish cuisine is a combination of bold flavors, simple ingredients, and rich culinary traditions. From the big cities to the serene villages, your practical training in Spain offers a diverse range of dishes that represent the country’s culture, climate, and history. Spanish food is all about enjoying fresh, high-quality ingredients, prepared in ways that enhance their natural flavors. Whether you’re doing your practical training on the Spanish mainland, Mallorca, Ibiza or the Canary Islands, Spain’s iconic dishes are sure to delight and inspire your taste buds.

The heart of Spanish cooking: Fresh ingredients and simple techniques

At its core, Spanish cuisine relies on a few essential ingredients that are used across the country: olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, peppers, and a variety of fresh herbs. Olive oil, in particular, is a key element in almost every Spanish dish and serves as a base for cooking, dressing salads, and dipping bread.

In Spain, meals are often prepared with care and pride, whether it’s a simple lunchtime sandwich or a complex dish like paella. Spanish chefs focus on preserving the integrity of ingredients, using minimal seasoning to allow the natural flavors to shine through. This simplicity is key to the appeal of Spanish food. During your practical training in Spain, you will have the chance to experience the taste firsthand.

Iconic dishes of Spain: A must-try culinary experience during your practical training in Spain

Paella

No blog post about Spanish cuisine would be complete without mentioning paella, one of the most famous dishes in the world. Originating in the region of Valencia, paella is a rice dish that’s typically cooked with saffron, vegetables, and a variety of proteins. While seafood paella is perhaps the most well-known, it can also be made with chicken, rabbit, and even a mix of meats. The secret to a perfect paella lies in the rice, which should be tender yet slightly crispy at the bottom – a texture known as socarrat.
At most Spanish restaurants, paella is often served in the traditional wide, shallow pan it’s cooked in, making it a visually striking dish that invites sharing. Depending on the restaurant, it might be brought to the table in individual portions or as a large serving to be shared among a group. The rich aroma of saffron and grilled meats or seafood fills the air, enhancing the dining experience.
Although paella is often considered a festive dish, it’s enjoyed by people of all ages in Spain, especially during family gatherings and celebrations. So be sure to try paella during your practical training in Spain, it’s a culinary experience not to be missed.

Tortilla Española (Spanish omelet)

Another classic Spanish dish is the tortilla Española, also known as Spanish omelette. This dish is made with eggs, potatoes, and onions – often with a generous splash of olive oil. It can be served hot or cold and is a common choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether served as a tapa (small appetizer) or as a full meal, tortilla Española represents comfort food in Spain. Some variations include the addition of chorizo, peppers, or other ingredients, but the classic version remains a favorite across the country. While doing your practical training in Spain, you’ll likely find tortilla Española on the menu at various restaurants and discover how it varies depending on regional preferences.

Tapas: A social culinary tradition

Tapas are small portions of food, often served alongside drinks, that embody the social spirit of Spanish dining. Tapas can range from simple snacks like olives, cheese, and cured meats to more elaborate dishes such as albóndigas (meatballs), gambas al ajillo (shrimps in garlic oil), and patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a spicy tomato sauce).
The beauty of tapas is in the variety. It’s a dining experience that encourages sharing and trying a little bit of everything. Whether you’re enjoying them at a local bar or served in a traditional restaurant, tapas offer a great introduction to the flavors of Spain. It’s also an ideal way to enjoy a relaxed, casual meal with friends or colleagues—something that is common during evenings in Spain. We are sure that during your practical training in Spain, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy tapas with fellow interns and colleagues.

Jamón Ibérico

You can’t visit Spain without tasting jamón ibérico, the prized cured ham made from black Iberian pigs. This delicacy is typically served thinly sliced and is often eaten as a tapa or appetizer. The flavor of jamón ibérico is rich and complex, with variations depending on how long the ham has been cured. The finest variety, jamón ibérico de bellota, comes from pigs that are fed a diet of acorns, which imparts a rich, nutty flavor to the ham.
It’s not uncommon to see a leg of jamón ibérico displayed in restaurants, supermarkets, and homes, where it is hand-carved. It’s a cultural symbol of Spain and a true delight for food lovers.

Churros con chocolate

For those with a sweet tooth, churros con chocolate is a beloved Spanish treat, often enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Churros are long, deep-fried pastry sticks, dusted with sugar, and served with a warm, thick chocolate sauce for dipping. The indulgence of churros paired with rich, velvety chocolate is the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a mid-afternoon treat. It’s common to enjoy churros with coffee or hot chocolate, and it’s a must-try during your practical training in Spain or during a language course in Málaga.

Gazpacho

As Spain’s summers can get quite hot, gazpacho is a refreshing and cooling dish that is particularly popular in southern Spain. This cold tomato-based soup is made with raw vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers, onions, and garlic, all blended together with olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings. The result is a smooth, chilled soup that’s perfect for cooling off during the warmer months. It’s not just a meal; it’s a Spanish tradition that brings the freshness of local produce to the table.

Drinks that complete the Spanish experience during your practical training in Spain

No meal in Spain is complete without a drink to accompany it. Here are some iconic Spanish beverages you should know about before you do your practical training in Spain:

Café

In Spain, coffee is an essential part of daily life, and it’s served in a variety of ways. When ordering a café, you’ll typically get an espresso. If you want a milder version, you can ask for a café con leche (espresso with milk) or a café cortado (a short espresso with a splash of milk). Another favorite is the café solo (single espresso), which is the most common choice for coffee lovers. Spanish coffee is often enjoyed alongside a sweet treat or a small pastry, particularly in the morning or afternoon.

Sangria and tinto de verano

For a refreshing and fruity drink, sangria is a popular choice, particularly during the summer months. This wine-based cocktail is made with red wine, fruit juices, soda water, fruit, and sometimes a splash of brandy. It’s served chilled and is ideal for relaxing on a warm evening.
While sangria has become a beloved drink worldwide, it holds a special place in Spanish culture, often associated with festive gatherings and family celebrations. The drink’s origins can be traced back to Spain, where it was traditionally made with local wines and fresh, seasonal fruits like oranges, lemons, and berries. Over time, it evolved into the colorful and flavorful beverage that we know today, with various regional variations depending on the area of Spain.
In Spanish restaurants, sangria is often served in large pitchers, making it perfect for sharing among friends and colleagues as part of your practical training in Spain.
Another beloved summer drink is tinto de verano, a simpler version of sangria, made with red wine and lemon soda or lemonade. It’s less sweet than sangria, making it a perfect option for those who prefer a lighter, more refreshing beverage.

Canarian cuisine: A flavorful journey through the Atlantic

While Spanish cuisine is incredibly diverse, the Canary Islands offer a distinct culinary experience that blends African, Latin American, and Spanish influences. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands have their own unique food traditions that reflect the island’s geography, history, and cultural exchanges. As you explore the islands during your practical training in Spain, you’ll not only get to experience the culture and landscapes but also dive into the local flavors that make Canarian cuisine special.

For starters: Hearty soups to begin your meal

Canarian meals often start with soups that are both satisfying and flavorful, setting the stage for the rest of the meal. These hearty dishes reflect the islands’ rural and coastal lifestyle, making them the perfect introduction to local cuisine during your practical training in Spain.

Potaje de berros (Watercress soup)

A staple in Canarian cuisine, potaje de berros is a hearty soup made with fresh watercress, potatoes, beans, and chunks of pork or chorizo. This rustic dish boasts earthy, comforting flavors and is perfect for colder days on the island.

Rancho Canario

If you’re looking for something even heartier, rancho canario is the way to go. This thick soup combines noodles, chicken, pork, chickpeas, and a medley of vegetables. Filling and wholesome, it’s a reflection of the Canarian love for rustic and nourishing cooking.

Main courses: Signature dishes of the Canary Islands

The main courses in Canarian cuisine celebrate the islands’ natural bounty and rich culinary heritage. With access to both land and sea, Canarian meals often feature a perfect balance of fish, meats, and vegetables. Many dishes carry a long-standing history of local traditions, which you can explore during your practical training in the Canary Islands.

Papas arrugadas con mojos

Perhaps the most iconic dish of the Canary Islands, papas arrugadas are small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in heavily salted water, giving them a unique texture. Served with mojo verde (a fresh cilantro-based sauce) or mojo rojo (a spicy red pepper-based version), they are simple yet irresistible. You can find this dish during your hotel internship in Tenerife almost on every menu.

Gofio

Has been consumed since pre-Hispanic times by the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands. It remains an emblematic food of Canarian identity. Making gofio involves roasting grains (or legumes) and grinding them into a fine flour. For many locals, it’s a comfort food associated with childhood, family, and tradition. While its preparation and pairing vary, it remains a beloved and nutritious staple on the Canary Islands.

Sancocho Canario

This traditional stew is a showcase of the islands’ fishing heritage. Made with salted fish (often cherne), potatoes, sweet potatoes, and corn, Sancocho Canario is usually served with a side of papas arrugadas, gofio and mojo rojo sauce. It’s a dish that embodies comfort and tradition.

Ropa Vieja Canaria

Translating to “old clothes”, Ropa Vieja is also a stew made from chicken, pork, or beef combined with vegetables, chickpeas, and potatoes. This dish is a beloved traditional dish in the Canary Islands, with its roots in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. The Canarian version often includes local touches that distinguish it from other variations found in Spain or Latin America.

Carne de cabra

Goat meat plays a significant role in the rural traditions of the Canary Islands. In carne de cabra, the meat is marinated with garlic, oregano, and bay leaves, then slow-cooked to tender perfection. This dish is particularly popular in the cooler months and pairs wonderfully with a robust local wine.

Sweet endings: Canarian desserts

No meal is complete without dessert, and Canarian cuisine offers a selection of sweet treats that delight the senses. After enjoying the savory dishes of the islands, these desserts are the perfect way to finish your meal and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Bienmesabe

Literally meaning “it tastes good to me,” Bienmesabe is a creamy, rich dessert made with ground almonds, sugar, egg yolks, and lemon zest. Often served as a mousse or paired with ice cream, this indulgent treat is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Quesillo Canario

A Canarian twist on flan, quesillo is made with condensed milk, eggs, and caramelized sugar. Its creamy texture and sweet, comforting flavors make it a delightful way to finish your Canarian meal. Some variations include hints of vanilla or lemon zest for added depth.

Dining Out: The perfect way to immerse yourself in Spanish culture

Whether you’re or enjoying your internship in the Canary Islands or Spain’s mainland, the cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors that are both comforting and exciting. From the iconic paella to unique Canarian dishes, Spain’s food invites you to explore its history, culture, and traditions.

Don’t miss the opportunity to dive into the heart of Spanish cuisine during your practical training in Spain. You’ll find that the food is just as much a part of the experience as the places you visit. By dining out, you can gain valuable insights into the culture and its people. With so many delicious dishes to discover, we’re confident you’ll find yourself dining out often. We hope you savor every bite and enjoy this wonderful culinary adventure.

¡Buen provecho!

Language courses

Spanish Crash Course

Our vacancies

The post Spanish Cuisine – practical training in Spain appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

The Canary Islands by ferry

Conny — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:00:40 +0000

The Canary Islands are all unique and beautiful. So why settle for one island during your vacation or internship on the Canary Islands? Under the term island hopping, changing islands, within a group of islands, has been popular and known for a long time. We also think it’s a great way to see as much of the Canary Islands as possible. The Canary Islands are each accessible by ship or by plane, especially between the islands exist many and good ferry connections. We think that it is a nice way to travel by ferry. Today we would like to give you the most important information about traveling by ferry around the Canary Islands. In addition, we will tell you about our experiences with island hopping.

To the internship on Canary Islands by ferry

If, like us, you like to explore and get to know as many places as possible…. you’ve come to the right place! We would like to give you a lot of information that you need for island hopping by ferry.

The two shipping companies that serve the islands are Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas. The former is an offshoot of the Norwegian shipping company Fred. Olsen S.A. The ferries are yellow and share the typical blue and red logo. Naviera Armas, on the other hand, is a Spanish shipping company. It is based in Gran Canaria, with white and red ships. The two competitors often offer the same routes, so it is always worthwhile to make a price comparison. Such are offered by many websites.

In addition to routes between the Canary Islands, they also offer trips to the Spanish mainland. Fred. Olsen Express only offers the connection from Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Huelva. Naviera Armas, on the other hand, offers connections to both Huelva and Cádiz. It connects a total of five Canary Islands with the Spanish mainland. Those are: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Palma. These routes are of course operated in both directions. So, for your vacation or internship on the Canary Islands, you can also travel by ferry and bring your car with you, for example. There is also a desire to establish a ferry service to Western Sahara or Morocco, but negotiations are stalling. Currently, the African continent is not served by any shipping company from the Canary Islands.

Preparations for island hopping during your internship on the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean next to the Western Sahara and politically belong to Spain. Geographically, the archipelago is assigned to Africa, which is especially noticeable in the climate and vegetation. Every single island has beautiful beaches and much more to offer. We will show you now how you can visit the other islands by ferry during your vacation or internship on the Canary Islands, and what you should keep in mind.

What do I need for my trip to the neighboring islands?

First of all, you need a ticket, which you can easily book on the website of the selected shipping company. Comparison portals will help you choose the best connection for you. On the day of the trip, you need to bring your ticket and your ID card with the ID card number you used when buying the ticket. You will not be able to board the ferry without your ID card. It is advisable to bring a jacket for the crossing, as well as anti-nausea medication in case you are prone to seasickness. In any case, you need a sense of adventure and energy, but also a plan of how to get from the port to your destination and from there to your planned activities. Especially on the smaller islands, bus connections are good and it is advisable to rent a car or make a detailed plan in advance.

Where can I stay overnight?

Overnight accommodations are available on all Canary Islands, but of course the easiest option is not to plan an overnight stay at all, but just to make a day trip. This is a good option on many islands, as some neighboring islands are barely an hour apart. If you decide for an excursion without an overnight stay and return to your main island the same evening, you will save the costs for accommodation.

However, if you would like to visit a more distant or larger island, accommodation is recommended. You will find them on all known booking sites. Alternatively, there are also campsites on many islands where you can book a pitch. However, when booking, pay attention to the distance to the activities you want to do. Without good planning, you will quickly waste time unnecessarily.

Ferry connections between the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands differ in size and location. Accordingly, ferry connections vary in quality and travel times. For example, it is easier to visit several other islands from the central islands of Tenerife or Gran Canaria than from the more remote islands of El Hierro or La Palma. Therefore, in the following we will explain only the ferry connections from the four largest Canary Islands. These islands not only have the most convenient ferry connections, but are also the most suitable for an internship on the Canary Islands.

Ferry routes from Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and from here you have the possibility during your vacation or internship on the Canary Islands to reach all other Canary Islands with a direct ferry. In the following we show you which islands you can visit especially well by ferry from Tenerife.

Our recommendation for a day trip from Tenerife:

The small island of La Gomera, which is still free of mass tourism, is served by both ferry companies from Los Cristianos in the south of Tenerife. There are a couple of ferries a day. The trip takes less than an hour each way. Therefore, exploring La Gomera is very suitable as a day trip! Possible activities on La Gomera include guided tours, hiking, or sightseeing in the capital city of San Sebastián de La Gomera. This is the city where Christopher Columbus prepared himself for his great voyage to India (and landed in America).

For longer trips:

Both providers offer ferries to Gran Canaria from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Destinations on Gran Canaria are either the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or the port city Agaete. The journey takes less than 2 hours and the ferries run several times a day.Gran Canaria is a very large and varied island. Here you have a lot of leisure activities: You can hike, look at picturesque towns, go shopping, enjoy the party life in the south of the island, or relax on sunny beaches. Famous are especially the dunes of Maspalomas, where you feel like in a desert.

La Palma is one of the smaller Canary Islands and is still very natural. You can reach the island from Los Cristianos with both ferry companies and with Naviera Armas also from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The trip takes about 3 hours from Los Cristianos and much longer from Santa Cruz. There are many beautiful waterfalls to hike to, a volcano that erupted only a few years ago, and impressive natural swimming pools.

The island of El Hierro, which is located in the very southwest of the archipelago, offers above all beautiful nature experiences and is also particularly suitable for hikers.

It can only be reached by Naviera Armas from Los Cristianos. The trip takes about 2.5 hours, but it is worth it, because the island is beautiful and also great for diving.

Currently you can only get to Fuerteventura from Tenerife with Naviera Armas. But there are two different ports of call: Puerto del Rosario and Morro Jable. The trip is a bit longer and takes at least 4.5 hours to Morro Jable and even longer to Puerto del Rosario. There, however, are particularly beautiful sandy beaches and stone formations to marvel at. We recommend the ferry ride from Tenerife to the surfer’s paradise Fuerteventura only for stays of several day

Ferry routes from Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is one of the most popular islands of the Canary Islands and also there are ferry connections to almost all other islands. The exception is the western island of El Hierro, which is only served from Tenerife. Except for Tenerife, all islands are served exclusively from the capital Las Palmas.

Our recommendation for a day trip from Gran Canaria:

Fuerteventura can be reached quite quickly from Gran Canaria during your internship on the Canary Islands. The rides start from a duration of 2 hours to Morro Jable. The volcanic island has many beautiful beaches and towns to offer and is especially popular among surfers! The ferries leave several times a day and ensure you an unforgettable trip! The island is equally suitable for longer trips, if you would like to experience more of this great island.

For longer trips:

The largest Canary Island, Tenerife, is very diverse and has a special center with the Teide National Park. Around the highest mountain in Spain you can marvel at many unique natural wonders. Tenerife also offers you a lot of fun during your visit to the Canary Islands. Here you can find everything: nature, party centers, great beaches, action like paragliding and much more! Another advantage: with a fast connection you can reach the island in under 2 hours.

If you have a lot of time (a few days), you could also go all the way to Lanzarote by ferry. The island is the home of the green stone olivine, which you can buy everywhere throughout the Canary Islands. The trip to Lanzarote by ferry takes at least 5 hours, so for this route most people prefer to get on a plane and reach their destination faster.

Ferry routes from Fuerteventura

From Fuerteventura there are four other islands that can be reached by ferry.

Our recommendation for a day trip from Fuerteventura:

The absolute recommendation from Fuerteventura is to take the ferry to Lanzarote. The trip only takes half an hour and is therefore perfect for day trips. And you always have a day off during your internship on the Canary Islands, don’t you? On the neighboring island of Lanzarote, rock formations and enchanting sandy beaches are just waiting to be explored!

For longer trips:

Within 2 hours the ferry from Morro Jable reaches Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. There is a lot to see and do on Gran Canaria, which is why we recommend spending more than just one day here. The capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is picturesquely beautiful and very historic. But there are also many other great cities, beaches, hiking destinations and much more. Around Playa del Inglés in the south there are additionally many places to party.

To Tenerife, the connections are not quite as good and a trip takes at least 4.5 hours. Nevertheless, the largest island of the Canaries is suitable for longer stays, as there is a lot to discover here in all areas.

Ferry routes from Lanzarote

From Lanzarote you can reach 5 other islands during your vacation or internship on the Canary Islands. Some trips unfortunately take a long time, but with the right planning a lot is possible!

Our recommendation for a day trip from Lanzarote:

For a day trip from Lanzarote, we clearly recommend exploring the small neighboring island of La Graciosa. The trip to La Graciosa takes only 25 minutes with the ferry company Líneas Romero and goes several times a day. On the smallest of the Canary Islands there are few inhabitants, neither paved roads nor cars. So enjoy the beautiful beaches there in peace or take a walk through the breathtaking landscape.

For longer trips:

The larger neighboring island of Fuerteventura, however, offers much more action. There are great beaches for surfing, some beautiful villages to discover, hikes, special rock formations, animal parks to visit, jeep safaris, sailing tours, buggy tours and much more. The second largest of the Canary Islands offers you in any case a varied stay and many attractions such as the Popcorn Beach. The ferry ride from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura takes about half an hour and makes the island also a good destination for a day trip.

Within more than 5 hours you can reach Las Palmas de Gran Canaria from the port of Arrecife. The large neighboring island is very well suited for longer trips with overnight stays. The landscape and vegetation change here very much and the island has something to offer for every taste. If the ferry ride is too long for you, you can of course reach Gran Canaria just as well by plane!

Locations

Videos

Photo gallery

The post The Canary Islands by ferry appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internships on Rhodes – 5 things to experience

Conny — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 08:27:58 +0000

1. Spend your leisure time of your internships on Rhodes at the beach

During your internships on Rhodes you can swim in the gorgeous turquoise ocean before relaxing in the sunshine. Rhodes is a very popular destination for beach lovers. Wherever you will go and however long you will drive to start your beach day you will always find a nice beach to enjoy on Rhodes. So come here for your internships on Rhodes and see the beauty of the beaches by yourself! Our favorite beach is called Agathi Beach in Haraki. This beach has golden sands, shallow waters and you can eat here in a small Greek taverna. Which beach is your favorite one?

Undoubtedly, the title of Rhodes’ most breathtaking beach belongs to the dual shores of Prasonisi, located at the island’s southernmost point. While Prasonisi’s beauty is unmatched, it is often hit by strong winds, turning this scenic locale into a haven for kite surfers rather than those looking to sunbathe. You can reach it by bus, but keep in mind that buses are infrequent, requiring you to spend a few hours there before the return trip. Therefore, it’s wise to come prepared with water, snacks, and sunscreen.

Instagram enthusiasts will be thrilled with the picturesque beaches at Kallithea Springs, conveniently located a brief bus journey away from Rhodes Town. Rather than heading into the thermal springs, if you take a right, you’ll find yourself in front of four rocky beaches, each boasting unique shapes sculpted by the sea and wind. However, it’s important to note that, despite their photogenic appeal, these beaches have sharp and rocky sand that can be uncomfortable to walk on. Securing a sunbed directly on the rocks is advised for a more enjoyable experience.

2. Two places you want to visit during your internships on Rhodes

You want to use one of your free days of your internships on Rhodes and plan a little trip?

If so, we recommend the Acropolis of Lindos and the Acropolis of Rhodes to you! Lindos is a beautiful town that promises a lot of Greek flair. It is the former capital of Rhodes and you can visit the wonderful Acropolis of Lindos. You will see that’s awesome!

The scale of the huge structure will impress you because everything has been built so much bigger than you can imagine. Additionally, the human beings look so tiny on this huge building it is wonderful to see and unbelievable to imagine that also just people like us have built this.

A myth surrounds the Acropolis of Lindos. Kleoboulos, the tyrant of Lindos, constructed a temple, presumably on the location of a pre-existing one. Legend has it that Kleoboulos was punished by being turned into a rock for showing disrespect to Athena. This tale is still alive among the inhabitants of Lindos, who believe that the rock into which Kleoboulos was changed lies at the entrance of the Acropolis.

If you cannot get enough of this kind of impressive construction, you can also visit the Acropolis of Rhodes. Here you can enjoy an spectacular view from the hill, especially at sunset. Situated on the city’s western edge, atop the Ayios Stefanos hill, the Acropolis of Rhodes and the majestic Temple of Apollo dominate the surrounding view. Uniquely, this ancient acropolis was not fortified. It featured a grand zone comprising Sanctuaries, extensive temples, public structures, and subterranean worship sites. Both buildings are different in their kind but both are absolutely worth a visit! So, if you’re looking for an interesting excursion for a day these both ancient monuments would be very good choices.

3. The tree of the island is the olive tree

Olive trees grow all over the island more than everywhere else. You will see them at the hotel complex, at the edge of many roads and simply everywhere grows one next to another.

You can also find the oldest Olive Tree in the Dodecanese group of islands in Rhodes. A discovery has been made of an olive tree that is more than 2,000 years old. The olive tree is found in the ‘Labra’ region within the village of Asklipeio, situated in the southeast of Rhodes.

The initiative by the Directorate of Agricultural Economy focuses on locating and safeguarding ancient trees along with the islands’ cultural legacy. To date, it has catalogued 71 trees across the Dodecanese that are more than 400 years old, including 9 trees that are at least 800 years old. These trees look totally dried out from outside but have the ability to store liquid inside, which allows them to bear fruit despite the enormous heat in the months of April to October. Never before, we have tasted such delicious olives and olive oil. It is no wonder that people all over the world love the delicious olive products from here.

4. A little but wonderful detail you will see here on Rhodes

We would say it is the island of scooters and motorcycles. It is so great to see more scooters than cars on the roads. People are driving slowly and carefully here, you will love the relaxed mood that the easy-going people and the sun on this island are giving to you.

Opting for a scooter rental on Rhodes Island is not just cost-effective but also provides an exciting and practical method to uncover its secret spots. Scooters, known for their slender build and agile handling, are particularly adept at maneuvering through cramped streets, crowded markets, and sharp turns. This nimbleness renders them perfect for venturing through the winding alleys of Rhodes Town and discovering secluded treasures beyond the usual tourist trails.

It is an unbelievable feeling sitting on a scooter when the sun goes down and you can feel the warm wind in your hair and on your skin. If you cannot rent a scooter do not worry because every walk will also give you this unique relaxed feeling here on Rhodes.

Exploring Rhodes Island by scooter is undoubtedly thrilling, yet it’s vital to put safety first and comply with traffic regulations. Make sure to always wear a helmet, observe speed limits, and proceed with care on the island’s roads. It’s important to stay aware of other motorists, particularly in the high tourist season when roads become more congested.

5. Do you know the legend of the Colossus of Rhodes?

We don’t know if you have heard of it before but during your internships on Rhodes you can visit the former location of the Colossus of Rhodes, which was one of the 7th world wonders of the ancient.

The legend tells about this largest statue of the antiquity that have been built within 12 years, started around 292 BC. It was a huge and impressive figure within its 33 meters and the legend says it was a gift from Greek gods.

The immense bronze statue depicted the sun god Helios. In Rhodes, Helios was especially venerated as the island’s paramount deity and patron god. He was celebrated with the Halieia festival, a ceremonial highlight that marked the zenith of the island’s religious festivities. At that time, Rhodes was a pivotal trading hub in the ancient Mediterranean, and the statue was revered as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Unfortunately, it was destroyed by an earthquake only 66 years later but on the Island Rhodes and also in the whole world this legend and also this certain magic of this place lives until today. Where once the ships passed directly under the Colossus, today you can see only the harbour entrance, on which that colossus was standing.

If you do your internships on Rhodes and visit this place you can imagine the incredible size of this statue. We recommend you to visit this location and let the history take effect on you.

If you decide to do your internships on Rhodes there is so much to explore here… One internship will not be enough to see all these historical monuments and beauty of this island. 😊

More about Rhodes

Our vacancies

Application

The post Internships on Rhodes – 5 things to experience appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Living and working in Spain

Conny — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 09:59:14 +0000

Some aspects of the Spanish culture

Working in Spain and living in the Spanish society means to be confronted with a different culture and requires you to identify with a lifestyle and customs that could possibly differ from your life at home. Facing a new culture can be both exciting and challenging. Language, food, interactions with local people, and many other impressions will appear fairly new at first. Being used to a certain way of handling things in your own culture can initially cause a lack of understanding when realizing that things are done differently elsewhere. Either way, it is an enriching experience and allows you to broaden your horizons.

Spanish “clichés

Trying to define and describe one particular culture is usually not that easy. How should you be able to attribute certain “typical” features to an entire culture while there is certainly more to a culture’s character than just some universally accepted stereotypes that do not take into account the diversity of individuals within this culture. Frankly speaking, it is possible to claim that there is some truth to different cultural clichés; however, it is always important to look at them critically and with a differentiated view. There is no such exclusive thing as “the typical Spanish person” (or British/German), but rather certain aspects of the Spanish culture and values lived by, that are common among the Spanish people and maybe distinctive in comparison to other cultures such as for instance the British or German one.

Going to another country, if it is work-related or just for pleasure, demands open-mindedness and the willingness to learn from a new culture rather than expecting things to go as they would back home. Living and working in Spain during one of our hotel work placements is a great chance to embrace new cultural influences and to get a better understanding of cultural diversity. In order to give you a little head start in regards to what to expect when coming to the Canary Islands or other places in Spain, we will go over some aspects of the Spanish culture that might be interesting for you. Again, the things mentioned are not to be seen as the ultimate truth about every Spanish individual but rather try to point out overall characteristics and some interesting aspects of life in Spain.

Language

Let us start off with a very obvious aspect: language. Knowing Spanish or at least some basics can make life easier. The degree to which local people are able or willing to talk in a different language besides Spanish depends, of course, on the individual and also the place you are at. Being very popular tourist destinations for mainly British and German travellers, Spanish people on the Canary Islands will most likely be able and used to talk to foreigners in English. Nevertheless, it is always a good approach to pick up some phrases and to make an effort to communicate in the local language, considering you intend to spend at least a couple of months in the country. After all, working in Spain is the perfect opportunity to polish up your language skills and allows you to learn the language much more authentically and also more effectively than in the class room. 😉

Food Culture

Another point, and probably one of the most appealing ones, is the Spanish cuisine and food culture. Living in Spain, you will quickly become aware of the huge number of cafés, bars and restaurants, which are filled with people nearly any time of the day. A significant part of Spanish life is lived outside in those public places, causing an overall vibrant feeling in the streets. When it comes to time, it can be said that lunch and dinner are usually eaten relatively late, compared to other cultures. Thus, people have lunch at two or three in the afternoon, after which they tend to rest for some time (“siesta”) if the circumstances allow. Dinner time can often be after nine in the evening. Known as a country with a strong coffee culture, coffee is consumed pretty much throughout the entire day, also in the evenings, in many different variations. For some people it is nothing unusual to drink four to five cups of coffee per day while sitting and chatting with colleagues, family or friends.

Society and lifestyle

Speaking of spending time with friends or co-workers, it can be said that people live in a collectivistic rather than an individualistic society, and the Spanish culture puts a lot of value on social gatherings. While there might be other cultures that show a stronger tendency for tight schedules and time pressure, Spaniards have a strong sense for socialising, and somehow seem to have maintained a less rushed and more relaxed way of living. Even though this does not apply to every worker or every industry, working in Spain might in some ways appear less stressful than in other, more performance-oriented, cultures. Leisure time and the time spent working seem to be well balanced (work-life-balance), which results in an overall higher life expectancy of 83.9 years (as of 2022), which is among the highest in the world!

Another aspect contributing to a comparably high quality of life, especially on the Canary Islands, is the exceptional climate with constantly pleasant weather conditions, guaranteeing warm temperatures and sunny days with only very few rainy days basically all year round. The amount of sunlight hours on the Canaries is one of the highest to be found in Europe, which, hypothetically, has an overall positive impact on people’s psychological state, and can lead to a lower number of depressions thanks to the increased level of vitamin D. Therefore, the climate is likely to encourage people to live a more sociable and active life by spending more time outdoors and in nature.

Perception of time

Living and working in Spain together with Spaniards, you might soon realize that the concept of timing things, and completing tasks can indeed be a slightly different one than in other European cultures. It is a well-known cliché that things in Spain can take comparably long to be done or completed. It is a stereotype that is, of course, no ultimate truth; however, it can be said that there is a tendency not to stress about many things such as tight schedules as much as, for instance, in the German culture. “Mañana, mañana” – an expression often associated with life in Spain, demonstrates a specific approach to time orientation: Spanish culture is rather based on a polychronic time orientation, which means that people tend to work on several tasks simultaneously instead of focussing on the completion of mainly one task at a time, which would be described as a monochronic culture. Consequently, it could be argued that in Spain adhering to deadlines is sometimes not as fundamental as in other cultures, which leads to the assumption that one tries to avoid unhealthy stress and pressure as it is often encountered in some other countries.

Siesta

The concept of siesta, as mentioned earlier, is a well-established tradition in Spain that is meant to contribute to an overall less stressful life. It is probably one of the most known features of the Spanish culture and influences everyday life and the “Spanish rhythm” still today. The siesta, a time of rest in the afternoon, was brought into the culture as a means of avoiding work during the hot and exhausting times of the day, and get some rest instead. Hence, businesses, stores etc. tend to be closed between 14-17 o’clock, and people pick up their work in the early evening again. This typical Spanish concept has been an important and integral part of a regular working day, especially in the past, and despite not being as prominent anymore today, especially in larger cities or holiday destinations, it is still practiced in wide parts of the country and a crucial aspect of the country’s cultural identity. 🧡

Ending our brief overview of cultural aspects in Spain, we would like to provide you with some random but nonetheless interesting facts:

The usual way of greeting each other among friends and family or in informal contexts is to give an “air kiss” on both cheeks (meaning touching both cheeks together, rather than actually kissing them), starting with the right side. Depending on their relationship, men might do a regular handshake. Formal contexts normally always require a regular handshake.
In Spain, every person traditionally has two surnames, with the first one usually being the paternal surname, “apellido paterno”, which is the father’s first surname, and the second being the mothernal surname, “apellido materno”, which is the mother’s first surname. Consequently, mother, father and child essentially all have different surnames, and unlike traditional naming conventions in some other European countries, women do not adopt their husband’s surname when getting married.
While Friday the 13th is widely believed to be the day of bad luck in many other countries, Spanish people regard Tuesday the 13th an unlucky date. There even is a saying concerning Tuesdays: “En martes ni te cases ni te embarques ni de tu casa te apartes”, meaning “Don’t get married, go on a boat or leave the house on a Tuesday”.

We think that the best way to find out if you agree with the things mentioned in this article, is to come to Spain for an internship and to see for yourself. Living and working in Spain will give you the opportunity to experience Spanish culture at first hand and develop both personally and professionally. Doing a hotel internship abroad is a promising time and an amazing experience. Read up on the experiences of former S-W-E-P interns here.

Spanish Fiestas

Spanish Crash Course

Application

The post Living and working in Spain appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internship on Fuerteventura – Top 10

Conny — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 15:42:47 +0000

Our ideas for your internship on Fuerteventura

1. Surfing

Fuerteventura is widely known as a surfer’s utopia, a reputation it well deserves due to its impressive waves and welcoming surf culture. During your time here, particularly if you’re here on an internship on Fuerteventura, you’ll be delighted to discover that the island is dotted with numerous sport schools. These establishments not only offer comprehensive surfing courses that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers, but they also provide all the necessary equipment you might need. This makes it incredibly convenient for anyone looking to dive into the sport or polish their surfing skills.

Therefore, if you find yourself yearning to conquer the majestic waves on your days off, Fuerteventura presents itself as the ideal destination. Its friendly surf community, coupled with the easy access to high-quality surf education and gear, ensures that your surfing adventure here will be both thrilling and fulfilling.

2. Molino de Antigua

The mill of Antigua – have a look at its inside! The mill is located at a huge area where you can see lots of different things. If you are interested in art, there is the possibility to visit exhibitions where you can have a look at canary craft. Since 1998, there has been a museum inside the restored large windmill, which, among other things, provides information about the life of a miller and the production of gofio.

There is also a shop, where you can buy some of the crafts – maybe you find a nice souvenir! A restaurant, a cafeteria and a gallery are also located there. Outside you find a cactus garden, where you can take a walk.

If you are interested in culture, you can have a look at an archaeological collection of the lava cave of Villaverde. The Cueva del Llano came into existence following the eruption of the Escanfraga Mountain volcano, an event that dates back over 800,000 years. To date, its mapped length reaches 648 meters, with the final 200 meters presenting challenges for exploration. In certain areas, the cave’s ceiling rises to heights of more than six meters. Within the cave, there is a fascinating assortment of fossils, including those of species that are now extinct. Notably, it houses the remains of the lava mouse, a species that was prevalent around two thousand years ago but disappeared following human arrival and the introduction of the common mouse.

You can also visit the Museo del Queso Majorero in this area. Come and discover the origin and production of Majorero cheese. Did you know that the Majorera goat is recognized as one of the most productive in the world? The excellent quality of its milk, dense, aromatic, and fatty, is one of the main secrets of Majorero Cheese.

3. El Jable – Las Dunas de Corralejo

Do you like hiking? Visit the 20 Squarekilometers big dune area El Jable – Las Dunas de Corralejo. The area is under conservation and close to the 7 km long white beach of Corralejo.

In 1969, a German company built two hotels on the dune area. This company previously bought up parts of the beautiful, ever-moving landscape. Fortunately, the area is no longer ‘approved’ building land today. Since 1982, the beach and shifting dunes have been designated as a special EU nature reserve because the shifting dunes are always in motion due to the constantly present winds. It can happen that the road from Puerto del Rosario to Corralejo (it divides the dune area) is blown away by sand and sometimes winds whip the fine grains of sand through the air. An impressive image that you should definitely take a picture of. You can reach the public, extensive beach area with bus number 6. Bus stops are at the train station and the port of Corralejo.

4. Punta de la Entallada

The small fishing village Las Playitas is only a few kilometres eastern of Tarajal. There you can enjoy delicious fish plates in one of the small restaurants or go for a walk. Before you come to the village, you can follow a small street to the east, which leads to the south. At the highest point of Punta de la Entallada you find a beautiful lighthouse. There you have a wonderful view over the Atlantic Ocean.

The Faro de la Entallada at Punta de la Entallada is the last lighthouse in Spain built according to the old standard design from the 1850s. That’s exactly what makes it so beautiful. The lighthouse was built to help ships navigate in a direct line from Spanish Western Sahara to the port of Gran Canaria or Tenerife. At that time, the western part of the Sahara was still Spanish and occupied by the Spanish Foreign Legion.

The Faro de la Entallada lighthouse is almost exactly the ideal image of a lighthouse that most people have in their minds. 187 m high above the sea, it towers spectacularly into the sky, freestanding on a cliff. The rocks fall dizzyingly and vertically into the sea beyond it.

5. Oasis Park

You should definitely visit the Oasis Park in the west of Tarajalejo during your internship on Fuerteventura!

Join amazing parrot shows, see lots of different animals or take part in an exciting safari with camels. You will be lead past tropical plants and palm trees up to a hill from where you will have the chance to enjoy an amazing view over the botanical garden and the beautiful beaches of the cost.

The most sought-after attraction is the camel experience. Camels have become synonymous with Fuerteventura’s character. Having been introduced to the Canary Islands over five centuries ago, they have been companions to both residents and tourists alike. Today, you have the opportunity to engage with their storied presence. Allow these ancient creatures to lead you across the stunning desert landscapes that encircle this oasis, guiding you until the sea comes into view.

Here is the link to the homepage for further information: http://www.fuerteventuraoasispark.com/en

6. Trip to Punta de Jandia

Punta de Jandia is located at the southwest of the island. From Morro Jable you can follow a route through a semi-desert with minimal vegetation. The view you get there is impressive. Everybody will enjoy it!

The remote cape of Punta de Jandía can only be reached via a 19 kilometre long gravel road that begins behind the cemetery of Morro Jable. Along a mountain range on the right, the gravel road winds through endless expanses, while the blue Atlantic stretches out to the left. Winds, drought, dust, stones, and orange-yellow sand characterize the landscape, which is a true beauty when you look closely.

Close to Punta de Jandia the village Puerto de la Cruz offers lovely places for a break. There you can eat one of the typical canary dishes. Arrived at Punta de Jandia you can see a beautiful lighthouse. At the southernmost point of this cape is the very photogenic Faro de Punta de Jandía. At the foot of the lighthouse, you can have a picnic on several seating areas and enjoy the raw and minimalist nature.

Tip: The most beautiful time in this place is at sunset. As the sunlight turns orange and the shadows become longer, the view over the Atlantic also changes. When the air conditions are clear, Gran Canaria appears out of nowhere in the last hours of the day and, with a bit of luck, even Tenerife with the 3,718-meter-high Pico del Teide volcano.

7. Playa de los Lagos

The beautiful beach is located northern of the small village El Cotillo. The bays are good protected and if you are lucky there are almost no other people. Turquoise water and white sand are the highlight of your free day during your internship on Fuerteventura at your dream beach.

Los Lagos beach impresses above all with nature. Most people come here to relax. A bit of entertainment is provided on the sand, as there are two small soccer goals and poles for a volleyball net. Apart from snorkelling, you cannot do any other water sports directly in the lagoons.

The serene atmosphere and picturesque lagoons create ideal conditions for a peaceful beach day. While there are no dining or restroom facilities directly on the beach, a short distance away with a view of the beach, you’ll find the “Ocean Deli”. Here, you can indulge in tasty food and drinks, and you’re likely welcome to use their restrooms in exchange.

8. The holy mountain Montaña de Tindaya

For years people say the mountain has magical powers.

The Montaña Tindaya may have had a wide variety of cultic significance. One was the determination of the winter solstice. The whim of nature would have it that the shadow of the Montaña de Enmedio (523 m) is cast symmetrically on Mount Tindaya before and after the days of the winter solstice. The small bulges and caves at the summit of Tindaya may have been places of sacrifice. Potsherds were found there. But the “podomorphos”, the rock carvings, pose a mystery. 312 of them have so far been found on Montaña Tindaya. They are rock carvings that resemble feet. Whether they should be is questionable.

On the southwestern ridge of Mount Tindaya there is a path that allows the visitor to get to know the sacred mountain and the beauty of its colors up close. It lies in the middle of a landscape that radiates peace and mystery. At its southern foothills lies a small village where a few shops and restaurants make a visit to this magical landscape more pleasant.

Get inspired by the mysterious atmosphere! Traces of the native inhabitants remind of the history of the Montaña de Tindaya. Art and nature get connected there – be enchanted!

9. Viewpoint of las Peñitas

Discover nature from the viewpoint of las Peñitas. After you left behind the oldest village of the Canary Islands, you will get a beautiful view over mountains and the amazing Atlantic Ocean.

Las Peñitas serves as a canvas for the imagination, inviting you to journey back to a time millions of years ago when the island featured towering mountains instead of its current gentle slopes. Those motivated by the scenic landscape can venture to the adjacent town of Vega de Rio Palmas by car and embark on the SL-FV-27 trail. This path meanders past the dam, offering hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the fresh air and distinctive ambiance of this remarkable location. At the Las Peñitas viewpoint in Betancuria, you are greeted with a breath-taking sight: a lush oasis amidst the desert expanse. Beneath the ravine of Las Peñitas, an underground river surfaces via an artificial dam, giving life to a quaint lake adorned with indigenous flora. This expansive lookout point provides an ideal pause on a drive through Fuerteventura’s heartland, offering a chance to savour this stunning and unexpected scenery.

10. Release of turtles

A unique experience of nature! You have the possibility to help baby turtles to begin their life at the impressive beach of Cofete.

The Morro Jable Sea Turtle Recovery and Conservation Centre is situated in the Port of Morro Jable, approximately a 1km distance or a 15-minute walk from Playa Morro Jable. Admission to the center is entirely free, though its limited size necessitates a maximum visit duration of 20 minutes. However, this should not deter you, as the center can comfortably be explored within this time limit.

Among the eight species of sea turtles, four are found in the waters surrounding the Canary Islands, with the Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles being the most prevalent. The Morro Jable turtle nursery is driven by two primary objectives: 1. The recovery of sick and injured sea turtles and 2. The conservation effort of reintroducing an endangered species back to the island.

You can visit the `kindergarden´ for turtles from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 1 pm.

More about Fuerteventura

Our vacancies

Application

The post Internship on Fuerteventura – Top 10 appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internships Spain – Spanish Crash Course

Conny — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 11:06:35 +0000

Do you want to learn Spanish?

Are you interested in learning a new language? In the following we would like to give you during your internships Spain or in Costa Rica a Spanish crash course. It is good to learn some Spanish for your hotel placements. This little blog entry is supposed to give you an insight into the basics of this beautiful language and hopefully will help you to learn Spanish.

Some facts

Do you really need to speak Spanish?

If you are planing to realise an internship Spain you have to learn Spanish. Of course you cannot learn a language over night but you should at least learn some phrases. It makes a huge difference if you approach people in their native language even if you just say “Hola” much better than immediately approach them in English. In general Spaniards love it if they see (or hear 😉) that you put some effort in learning their language.

People will be grateful!

Also if you want to do your internships in Spain you will realise that not a lot of Spanish people speak good English. To learn Spanish can become handy in many countries not just if you are doing an internship in Spain. Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world (over 400 million native speakers!!!). Spanish is the majority language in 21 sovereign states and few dependent territories with lots of different dialects and some different words. But if you learn Spanish you will be understood and you will understand the different dialects as well (sometimes it will be harder but never impossible).

Pronounciation

If you learn Spanish the right pronounciation is key or you will have trouble being understood proberly. Luckily Spanish is pretty easy when it comes to pronounciation and reading. You pronounce every word the way you read it. There are only a few exceptions but once you have learned those rules you can already read Spanish! After each letter we will give you example words and recommend you to listen to those words online (for example on Youtube) to get the right understanding of the sounds. In the following we will explain the letters you have to learn the others are basically prounonced as they are read.

1. Vowels

C – The “C” is a bit tricky. First of all you have two different pronounciations depending which vocals will follow the “C”. Is the “C” followed by an “A”, “O” or “U” it is pronounced like a “K”. If the “C” is followed by an “E” or “I” it is pronounced either like an “S” (like in son) or (in some parts of Spain) like a “TH” (like in think). It depends where you want to use your Spanish you might want to adapt but you will be understood no matter if you pronounce it like “S” or “TH”.

Example: carne, gracias

G – The “G” has the same like the “C” it depends on the vocals that follow on how you will have to pronounce it. If it is followed by an “E” or “I” it is pronounced like a guttural “CH” (this sound does not exist in English the only exception would be the proper pronounciation of “Loch Ness”, for German speakers it is a lot easier it is the same sound as in “Buch”). If it´s followed by an “A”, “O” or “U” it is pronounced like a “G” (like in get) à also note the “gue” and “gui” in the explanation of the “U” below.

Example: gente, garganta

á, é, í, ó, ú – If you see the accent over a vocal it means you have to stress this vocal in your pronounciation.

2. Letters that are silent

H – The “H” in Spanish is always silent.

Example: hola

3. Letters with different pronounciation

U – The “U” is pronounced like “OO” in food. The “U” is silent when it comes after a “G” and is followed by an “E” or “I” (gue, gui) (but in this case the “G” is pronounced like a “G”). There are Spanish words where the “U” is pronounced after the “G” in order to make it notable those words are written with a “Ü”.

Example: urgente, guitarra, pingüino

V – In some Spanish dialects the “V” is pronounved like a “B” but it´s up to you if you want to pronounce the “V” like a “B” or “V” either way you will be understood.

Example: ver

W – The “W” doesn´t really exists in Spanish only for loanwords so the pronounciation will differ.

Y – The “Y” is pronounced differently depending where it is. If it is at the end of a syllable, it is pronounced like the English “Y” in say. If it stands at the beginning of a syllable, it is pronounced like “Y” mixed together with various amounts of “D”.

Example: y, estoy, ayudar

4. Letters that seem to stay the same but are different

J – The “J” might sound harsh to some ears. It is pronounced like a “CHR” again this sound does not exist in English the only exception would be the proper pronounciation of “Loch Ness”, for German speakers it is a lot easier it is the same sound as in “Buch”.

Example: jamón

LL – The double L is pronounced like the “Y” in yes.

Example: llamar

Ñ – The “N” with the wiggly line on top is pronounced like “ny” in canyon.

Example: Español

Q – This letter is always pronounced like “K” in key and is always followed by a silent “U”.

Example: aquel

R – The “R” at the beginning of a word is rolled in Spanish and might be tricky for many learners. Just practice this sound and try to roll it as good as you can. Is this letter in the middle of a word you have to quickly touch the upper palate with the tip of your tongue. It is hard to explain you are better of listening to an example.

Example: real, querer

X – The “X” is pronounced as in English “KS”. There are some exception for example “México” is pronounced “Mejico” (with the Spanish “J”).

Example: extranjero, México

Learning to crawl

You gotta learn to crawl before you can walk. After you have learned how to actually read the words we want to introduce you to some phrases to help you to learn Spanish. Especially when you undertake your internships Spain or in Costa Rica you have to learn some phrases to make your start easier. (In some countries you will see the double exclamation or qestion mark ¡Hola! / ¿Cómo estás? In the following we will write the phrases with the single exclamation or question mark but again it is up to you which variant you choose to learn and use 😉)

Greetings

Hola!	Hello!
Buenos días!	Good morning!
Buenas tardes!	Good evening!
Bienvenido!	Welcome!

How / What are you doing?

Cómo estás?	How are you? (informal)
Cómo está?	How are you? (formal)
Cómo te va?	How’s it going?
Cómo te ha ido?	How’ve you been?
Qué tal?	How are you?
Y tú?	And you?
Qué pasa?	What’s going on?
Qué haces?	What are you doing?
Estoy bien, gracias!	I’m fine, thanks!
Bien	Good
Así así	So-so

Being polite

Gracias!	Thank you!
Muchas gracias!	Thank you very much!
De nada!	You’re welcome!
Perdoname!	Excuse me!
Oiga!	Excuse me! (to ask for something)
Perdone!	Excuse me! (to get past)
Disculpe!	Excuse me! (to get past)
Disculpe!	Sorry! (if you didn’t hear something)
Lo siento!	Sorry! (for a mistake)

???

qué…?	what?
cómo…?	how?
cuándo…?	when?
dónde…?	where?
quién…?	who?
por qué…?	why?
cuál?	which?
cuánto?	how much?
Como te llamas?	What is your name?
Qué hora es?	What time is it?
Cuántos años tienes?	How old are you?
De dónde eres?	Where are you from?
Dónde vives?	Where do you live?
Tienes hermanos?	Do you have brothers or sisters?
Cuánto cuesta eso?	How much is that?
Qué es esto?	What is this?
Entiendes?	Do you understand?
Comprendes?	Do you understand?
Hablas inglés?	Do you speak English?
Dónde está el baño?	Where is the bathroom?

Answers

Me llamo…	My name is…
Mi nombre es…	My name is…
(Yo) tengo … años.	I am … years old.
(Yo) soy de…	I come from ….
Sí	Yes
No	No
Tal vez	Maybe
Siempre	Always
Nunca	Never
A veces	Sometimes
Claro	Of course

Numbers

1	uno	13	trece	25	veinticinco	37	treinta y siete
2	dos	14	catorce	26	veintiséis	38	treinta y ocho
3	tres	15	quince	27	veintisiete	39	treinta y nueve
4	cuatro	16	dieciséis	28	veintiocho	40	cuarenta
5	cinco	17	diecisiete	29	veintinueve	41	cuarenta y uno
6	seis	18	dieciocho	30	treinta	50	cincuenta
7	siete	19	diecinueve	31	treinta y uno	60	sesenta
8	ocho	20	veinte	32	treinta y dos	70	setenta
9	nueve	21	veintiuno	33	treinta y tres	80	ochenta
10	diez	22	veintidós	34	treinta y cuatro	90	noventa
11	once	23	veintitrés	35	treinta y cinco	100	cien
12	doce	24	veinticuatro	36	treinta y seis

Learning on- and offline during your internships Spain or in Costa Rica

There’s nothing like learning a language in a country where it’s spoken, or in a language course with a teacher. But there are many ways to learn Spanish online, with apps, or the old-fashioned way.

1. An app that we can recommend

One app that is good to get your Spanish going is “Duolingo” you won´t become fluent with this one but you will learn many gramatical rules, words and phrases. You will have many listening, talking, writting and reading excercises. Another good thing about this app is that it´s for free (if you don´t want to learn Spanish you can still use this app since it offers many more languages).

2. Learning trough watching: TV shows and Videos

If you like to learn Spanish with a TV show you can find “Extra” on Youtube. “Extra” is a Spanish comedy TV show for foreigners to learn the language. The episodes are in Spanish but easy to understand 😉. It is definetely a fun way to learn and you will get used to the sound of Spanish natives (from Spain).

You also have the option of Youtube. We personally like the Spanish course “Spanish with Paul”. Although he is not native his videos are amazing. He explains how the language works and does step by step excercises so you easily learn to build complex sentences.
Spanish documentaries on Youtube about a subject that you are familiar with and that are easy to understand is as well a great way to learn a language.
Youtube also offers various audio books in Spanish. Those are the free options online of course there are more possibilities to learn Spanish online but you´ll have to pay.

3. The old-fashioned way

Starting with reading kids books or newspapers is also a great way of getting used to Spanish and to learn the structure of the language and words. You can also go around your room or apartment and attach sticky notes to various things. So everytime you will look into the mirror you will see “el espejo” (the mirror) and so on. It is important to learn a language constantly even if it´s just a bit of vocabulary a day.

Another option to learn Spanish is to listen to Spanish radio. The app “Radio España FM” offers many radio stations and you can listen to where you want. It´s a nice musical way to learn it. If you listen to the news reporters you might understand a little bit but if you listen to songs you like and maybe translate the lyrics you will easily learn a lot.

If you are very serious and you want to learn Spanish we can also organise a Spanish language course in Spain mainland or on the Canary Islands for you. Afterwards you could undertake an internship in Spain and your success will be guaranteed. Because after all the best way to learn a language is to talk to Spanish speakers as much as you can and to live in a Spanish speaking country. 😊

Language courses

Locations

Application

The post Internships Spain – Spanish Crash Course appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internship positions

Conny — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 12:34:09 +0000

Internship positions on the Canary Islands

Do you want to escape the cold temperatures in Northern Europe? Then just come to the south… 🙂

If you have to do an internship for your studies or for the completion of your education where could it be more beautiful than under palm trees? We are looking forward to receive your application for our internship positions on the Canary Islands.

Is it possible for you to realize an internship for 3 to 6 months? A 5-star hotel on Gran Canaria is looking for a short-term trainee in the reception area. The hotel offers you free board and accommodation and also pays a remuneration of 300 € per month.

Your tasks during your hotel internship:

Bit by bit you will learn all the tasks in the hotel reception area and will try to apply them. These include the check-in of guests, inform the guests about the hotel services, answer questions from the guests, answer the phone, exchange (money) currencies, handle international correspondence, enter data of reservations to the hotel-specific computer program, check-out of guests and much more.

You will learn from your more experienced colleagues and “learning by doing”. The new experiences you will be able to gain in a multicultural environment will help you to learn how to apply your theoretical knowledge into practice. You are currently studying or realising a vocational training in hotel management, leisure, tourism, foreign language correspondence, communications, office management, business administration, etc. It makes you happy to work with people of different nationalities, you like to communicate with them, you have a friendly personality and you can still smile in stressful situations.

Take your chance to add an internship in an exclusive 5-star hotel to your resumé. Just send your CV with a photo to:

info@s-w-e-p.com

Interniship positions in Greece – Intern in the reception department in a 5-star hotel on Crete!

Do you want to experience something new – to get out of the dreary everyday life? Do you want to leave the grey weather behind and enjoy the sun? Have you had enough theory and want to improve through practice now?

Then apply for an exclusive hotel practical training in Greece in one of the most popular tourist destinations – Crete!

One of our 5-star partner hotels on Crete is looking for a trainee in the Reception/Guest Relations department. You will get free board and accommodation and an additional monthly remuneration of €350. The minimum internship period is 3 months and the internship is available from now on.

Your tasks during your hotel internship:

Welcoming guests, answering their questions and giving information, dealing with complaint management, check-in of guests, answering the phone, exchanging (money) currencies, dealing with international correspondence, entering reservations into the hotel specific computer program and processing the check-out of guests, etc. …

Gradually, you will learn all the tasks in the hotel reception area and try to implement them step by step. This will help you to implement your theoretical knowledge into practice. You will work in a multinational environment with the opportunity to gain new experiences, expand your already existing knowledge and develop new skills. Time to explore the island or just relax at the beach on your days off is guaranteed.

Do you like working with people of many different nationalities? Are you communicative, have a friendly and outgoing personality and you can still smile in stressful moments? Then this internship is just right for you! A student status is not required. Your German language skills should be at a good level. Don’t worry – you do not have to speak Greek 🙂.

One of our 5-star partner hotels on Fuerteventura is searching for an intern in the Reception Department

For this vacancy an internship period of 3 to 6 months is required. Your duties in the reception area are welcoming guests, handling the check-in (computer registration) and providing information about the hotel services. You will also answer incoming calls, pass them on, inform the guests about the island, deal with hotel reservations, show guests their hotel rooms and correspond with them. Furthermore, you will translate documents into English and Spanish, pass on complaints, and fulfil the guests wishes. As you become more experienced you will generate hotel bills, arrange checkouts of departing guests, help with reservations, as well as with other tasks. You will work 40 hours per week with two days off. Free board and accommodation are provided by the hotel and you will get at least €150 remuneration per month.

Do you want to gain more practical experience, make use of your already acquired knowledge and improve your language skills? – Then take the chance and apply for an exclusive hotel internship on Fuerteventura!

⟶ Here you can also find internship positions on the Canary Islands

Internship positions in the Public Relations & Quality Management Department

Are you looking for an opportunity to go abroad, to gain experiences in another country? What are you waiting for? Take the next plane and fly to the Canary Islands! We have the perfect internship abroad for you!

We have 2 vacancies in the PR/Quality Management Department in one of our 5-star partner hotels on Tenerife. For both internship positions you will get at least 150 € per month as well as free accommodation and board.

So, if you are interested in the hotel industry, you are motivated and enjoy working with people, you are already studying or completing an apprenticeship and your English skills are good and you have a basic knowledge in Spanish – then these vacancies are right for you.

One of our partner hotels on Lanzarote is looking for an intern! This is your chance to do an internship abroad!

One of our partner hotels in the 4-star sector on Lanzarote offers a vacant position for October in the Reception Department.

The hotel is looking for an intern who is available for at least 3 months, reliable and has good communication skills in dealing with international guests. Are you interested to spend your practical training on the Canary Islands?

If you would like to get to know the daily work of a receptionist, please apply now by sending your English or Spanish CV to: info@s-w-e-p.com

We are looking forward to receive your application!

Hotel internship positions on Malta

Do you want to enhance your English language skills? Do you want to get to know a new culture and enjoy the wonderful weather during your leisure time? We offer voluntary internships on Malta. This means a student status is not necessary and we can also organize internships for high school graduates.

On Malta, English is predominantly spoken, so usually quite good English skills are required by the hotels. Other language skills are desirable but not a requirement.

Currently our intern Bob is working in one of our partner hotels in the Restaurant Department on Malta. To work in the Restaurant Department means to be very attentive and sociable, communicative and to have very friendly manners. Since he started his internship his language skills are improving and he is developing new personal skills, such as better time management and dealing with stressful situations.

His tasks are welcoming the international guests in the restaurant of the hotel, ensuring a professional and friendly service during breakfast, lunch and dinner, also helping out at the pool bar during the day, arranging tables and laying out dishes in the dining room to prepare it for the evening service, giving recommendations to each guest on their choice of food and wine and taking their orders. He is enjoying his time on Malta and therefore he clinks glasses with his new friend while having a very beautiful ocean view.

The hotels offer the interns free accommodation + free board and a remuneration. For example, a 5-star hotel offers several paid internship positions with a remuneration of 200 € per month on Malta in the departments Reception or Food & Beverage.

⟶ Please find more information about Malta here.

We have a new vacancy as Caddy in a Golf-Club. Read more about this exciting internship positions abroad!

Our internships offer a unique combination of working experience and fun. Currently we have a free internship golf vacancy available as a Caddy in the Golf-Club of a 5-star Hotel on Tenerife. Free accommodation and board will be provided by the hotel and additionally you will receive a monthly remuneration of at least 150 €.

Your tasks will be assisting the golfers on the golf course, answering queries regarding the pitch condition as well as the driving the golf carts. Consequently, you should have an affinity to playing golf, ideally you have a minimum handicap and you are at least a little familiar with the golf sport.

Do you enjoy daily contact with people? Are you open-minded and communicative? Do you have basic knowledge in Spanish and English is no problem for you? If so, then you are the perfect candidate for this traineeship. This is your chance to do an internship abroad!

What are you waiting for? Apply now by sending us your CV in English or Spanish with a photo to: info@s-w-e-p.com

We are looking forward to see you on the golf course soon!

Internship positions in the Public Relations Department in a 5-star hotel on Lanzarote

Do you want to escape the cold and rainy weather, and enjoy the sun on beautiful beaches instead? During your practical training on the Canary Islands, you will have summerlike temperatures even in winter time and you will get the chance to choose between different leisure time activities. Whether you prefer a camel ride through the volcanic landscape, explore an impressive lava cave or spend a relaxing day at one of the numerous beaches all possible during your hotel internship on Lanzarote!

One of our 5-star partner hotels on Lanzarote is looking for an intern in the Public Relations Department.

For this internship a period of 2 – 6 months is required. You will work 40 hours and have two days off per week, accommodation and meals are provided by the hotel for free and you will receive a remuneration of 300 EUR per month.

Are you studying or doing an apprenticeship? Are you planning to do your compulsory internship abroad? Then this is the right internship for you!

Your tasks during your hotel internship:

During your practical training in a hotel on Lanzarote you will be permanently in contact with the international hotel guests. Your tasks will be welcoming the guests and showing them the hotel facilities as well as forwarding any complaints received to the respective department. Furthermore, you will analyse the results of the hotel questionnaires, prepare international correspondence and learn about Customer Relationship Management.

For this internship you should have a friendly personality and self-confidence. You like to deal with international guests and you are able to solve even difficult situations in a diplomatic way. Your English has to be at a good level and you will need at least basic Spanish skills.

Hotel internship positions on the Greek Islands

Would you like the opportunity to experience a new culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery in your leisure time? We offer voluntary placements on the Greek Islands, giving you the opportunity to gain new skills in a hotel where others go for their holidays. The positions in Greece do not require you to be a student!

Good English skills are required by the hotels. Other language skills are desirable.

The hotels offer the interns very different conditions. Free accommodation + free board + remuneration are often provided.

For example: A 5-star hotel is offering internships in the Reception, Hostess, Restaurant and Guest Relations Departments with free board and accommodation, plus a remuneration of 600 € per month.

Locations

Our vacancies

Application

The post Internship positions appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Star Gazing during my internship abroad on Tenerife

Conny — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 12:01:33 +0000

Excursion to the Teide National Park

When I started my internship abroad on Tenerife, I made a checklist what to see and to do here on the island. First and foremost, I wanted to explore the beaches of Tenerife and enjoy the sight of the palm trees and the Atlantic Ocean. However, one particular highlight was set to enrich my stay on Tenerife even further… My visit to the Teide National Park with its fascinating lava fields which look a bit like the surface of the planet Mars.

Photo by @krastevdeyan

Longing for a hike through the landscapes of Tenerife and hoping to catch a glimpse of the twinkling stars, I started my internship abroad on Tenerife. The sight of a clear night sky has always captivated me, and every time the opportunity arises, I am filled with joy. Naturally, it was also my goal to explore the island and its unique wonders during my internship abroad on Tenerife. Consequently, I was determined to discover every corner of this beautiful island and uncover all that it has to offer.

The main attraction of the Teide National Park is undoubtedly the impressive and still active volcano, Mount Teide, which last erupted in 1909. With a height of 3,700 meters above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Spain. Even before starting my internship abroad on Tenerife, I had heard of the fascinating landscapes of the island and the extraordinary opportunities to observe the night sky. As a result, I was filled with excitement to do my internship on Tenerife!

When I came online across pictures of the night sky over the Teide, I was left speechless. Mount Teide had long been at the top of my personal bucket list for my internship abroad on Tenerife, along with many other exciting places I wanted to visit on the island. If you want to get a glimpse of what Tenerife and the other Canary Islands have to offer, I invite you to visit our Instagram account. There, we regularly share exciting posts about the experiences and activities of our interns during their internships abroad: @spanish_work_exchange_programm.

At that point, I didn’t have a concrete plan on how to turn my dreams into reality. I wanted to approach the journey just as spontaneously as many other things during my internship abroad on Tenerife. However, one thing was clear to me from the beginning: I was never a big fan of pre-planned tourist tours. Therefore, I decided to organize the entire trip myself.

Fortunately, I had the pleasure of having a friend visiting me during my internship abroad on Tenerife, and together, we planned an unforgettable excursion. In this blog post, I am excited to share my personal impressions and experiences with all of you. I will not only talke about the majestic Teide and the captivating stars, but I will also provide valuable tips for your own journey. If you’re not particularly interested in astronomy, but still wish to visit Teide, be sure to read the section “Ways to do it”. There, you will find advice on how to reach Teide.

Why go to Teide to see stars?

There are approximately 200 billion stars in our galaxy and 200 billion galaxies in the universe. These numbers are so immense that they are almost incomprehensible. However, there is one number that is somewhat more tangible: 88. That is the exact number of officially recognized constellations. And you know what? From Teide, 83 of these constellations are visible! Isn’t that absolutely incredible? Just imagine the view! The majestic Saharan desert on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other side of the island, make Tenerife the perfect place to gaze into the night sky. You don’t even have to be a big fan of stars to appreciate the breath-taking and unique sight that awaits you here.

Our expectations were more than fulfilled during our little adventure. During our hike through the night, we cherished every moment. Each time we paused, sat down, and enjoyed a snack, we were left speechless. It felt as if we were sitting right next to the stars in the night sky, walking through them. We will never forget the view nature presented us.

It is is impossible to put in words how beautiful and unique this experience was. Therfore, I highly recommend everyone visiting Tenerife, to seize the opportunity and explore Teide at night. There is nearly no light pollution that would disturb the view or hide the stars. The high elevation, clear sky, and clean air make this experience truly exceptional. Alongside Hawaii and Chile, Tenerife ranks among the world’s best locations for stargazing.

Ways to do it

There are various ways to explore Teide and enjoy the national park and its astronomical phenomena. However, my friend and I decided for the easiest way and rented a car to reach Montaña Blanca, at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. To get there, we drove through a village called “Vilaflor” and parked at a visitor’s parking lot, near a hiking trail. The trail led us straight up. The path was winding and had some inclines and declines. Our hike began late at night as we wanted to witness the sunrise at the summit. It took us approximately 4-5 hours to reach the summit from the starting point (depending on fitness and experience, some may reach the summit in 3 hours). Since we were there in April, it was extremely cold at night! On the way to the summit, temperatures dropped to 0 degrees Celsius! If you are planning to hike through the night, it is essential to prepare for the cold. Make sure to bring warm clothing and enough water with you. It is super important to stay hydrated during the hike, sice this can help prevent headaches due to the altitude changes.

Photo by @krastevdeyan

How to go to the very top of the Teide?

A little side note: A permit is required for the final 300 m to the summit. You can apply for your permit through the following link: reservasparquesnacionales.es

I can definitely recommend going all the way to the very top! The final meters may be challenging, but they are absolutely worth it. Despite the cold, the wind, and the slight smell of sulfur in the air, it is an experience like no other. Once you stand on the summit of Teide and look down upon the clouds, with nothing above you except the sky, you will surely agree with me.

We started our hike at 2 am. Our goal was to reach the summit early enough, to watch the sunrise above the clouds. During our trip, the sunrise was at 7:30 am, but this can vary depending on the season and should be checked beforehand. We planned enough time to hike slowely and take plenty of breaks to rest and eat. Thankfully, we were equipped with headlamps, so there was no danger of tripping or falling.

A night on the Teide

For those who don’t want to hike throughout the entire night (which is completely understandable), but still want to experience the stars and the sunrise (or even the sunset, which I heard is also breathtaking), there is the option of spending the night at around 3200 meters above sea level. Above the clouds, there is a charming little cabin where you can book a night in a warm, comfortable bed. An important note: It is advisable to book in advance! The route to the summit of Teide is extremely popular, and the accommodations near the summit are equally desired. Here is the link to check for available dates and make a reservation: volcanoteide.com

If you choose to stay overnight in the cabin, the previously mentioned permit is not required as it is included in the accommodation arrangement. For those who are either too comfortable or not physically fit enough to walk to the top, there is another option to enjoy the stars. This is particularly recommended for older individuals and children: the famous cable car of Tenerife. To enjoy the stars, it is of course necessary to book an additional night in the refuge as well.

There are various tour operators that offer special stargazing tours. You can find many options on the internet or by walking through the streets of Tenerife. So, if you’re not keen on hiking, there is also the option to book a tour that includes transportation by bus, cable car, and even additional telescopes.

If you don’t want to book a tour, rent a car, or take a taxi, you can also use public buses to get to Teide National Park, such as to the base of the cable car station. To see the stars, an overnight stay at the refuge is necessary, but for a day trip, you can take the bus in the morning and return in the afternoon. You can find information about bus connections on the following website: titsa.com

On the top of the world

It seriously felt this way when we were standing on the summit of Teide, high above the clouds, with nothing blocking the view. After an exhausting but magical hike through the night, under a breathtaking sky, we finally reached the top and enjoyed a well-deserved breakfast (consisting of bread, cheese, oranges, and chocolate) as the sun rose.

As the first rays of sunlight reached us, the stars began to slowly fade. Although it was cold and windy on the summit, as soon as the sun rose, it warmed our faces. This breathtaking sunrise made every single step of hiking up 3200m worth it. On the way up we even passed through passages of ice. Imagine how cold it was.

The sulfur smell, which becomes more intense as you get closer to the summit, is truly distinctive. There are green sulfuric areas from which smoke rises up. Combined with the altitude of over 3000m above sea level, this makes deep breathing challenging. This is especially the case if you’re not used to hiking at such heights. The final meters to the summit are particularly difficult, but that’s completely normal. You will also encounter other people struggling with the path on the way to the top.

Just take your time and once you have reached the top, all the troubles are forgotten because of the view!

I want to take this opportunity to thank my friend for the amazing hike, his equipment, and especially the beautiful photos he took! This hike was a highlight of my internship abroad on Tenerife. If you are interested in travelling, I reccomend checking out his Instagram-profile to discover more beautiful spots of our planet.

Photo by @krastevdeyan

More about Tenerife

Our vacancies

Application

The post Star Gazing during my internship abroad on Tenerife appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Your PR Internship in Greece

Conny — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 15:44:29 +0000

Internship in Greece on Crete?

If you decide to do an internship abroad that’s great and if you want to realize your internship in Greece even better! But there are so many amazing places, how can you decide? If you already had a look on our website, you might find it hard to make up your mind and to pick a country or even just an island for your internship in Greece. Well, we want to make your choice a little bit easier by presenting an internship in Greece that you could do as an intern on Crete. Crete is one of Greece’ beautiful islands. We have a lot of partner hotels on many of the Greek Islands that offer internship positions. Every island has its own charm and is very different to the others.

We want to tell you more about the island Crete so you know what an amazing internship possibility you have here if you want to undertake an internship in Greece!

Welcome to Greece! καλως ηρθες στην ελλαδα

Crete – Κρήτη

This island just got it all! Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands and the most popular! If you take a closer look on this beauty in the Mediterranean Sea you will understand why. Not only the astonishing landscapes but also the friendly Cretans make this island a unique and beloved little spot in Greece and of course in Europe. Thousands of tourists visit the island over the spring, summer and autumn months. They enjoy amazing beaches, the most beautiful and clear sea or sightseeing at historical sites like the Palace of Knossos.

Just like every place in Greece Crete is very historical and tourists can be enchanted by its history and myths. Additionally, Crete just has the charm of the old days combined with such a warm-hearted mentality that you will feel at home right away. Inevitably globalization and the growth of tourism on the island changed Crete. But Cretans stick to their folk traditions and cultural heritage. For example, Cretan dances are still danced at every opportunity and not just at weddings. Sometimes people start dancing after dinner in restaurants when the music is playing and they are in the right mood.

Greek Food – The Cretan cuisine, olives and ouzo!

Greek food is known to be delicious and the Cretan cuisine is just as tasty, but did you know that the Cretan diet is one of the healthiest in the world? Using fresh green ingredients and wild herbs that grow all over the island the quality of this diet lies in the basic foundation not in complicated sauces. Therefore, the Cretan cuisine is quite special in Greece. Eating together takes a big part in the Cretan culture since the Greek enjoy the feeling of community. They tend to have a big dinner late in the evening. Very popular are shared appetizers called mezédes which they serve in every Cretan restaurant.

And don’t forget the olive oil and its rich flavor and delightful smell. Greek olives are one of the most flavorful in the world and are a must in many Cretan dishes. But the olive tree is popular not only for its fruit. Cretans also use the wood of the olive trees. For example, to craft cutlery, bowls, accessories and much more.

When you wander through picturesque streets the olive aroma will amplify your holiday feeling and your appetite! And if there is food there is also ouzo. If you visit Crete you have to try the dry anise-flavored aperitif that is typical for Greece and for sure famous and enjoyed worldwide.

If you go out for lunch or dinner you might be surprised because the waiters usually serve a free traditional and often homemade desert after your meal. It is another little trait of the Greek mentality. The people of Greece just love sharing their food and ‘feeding’ their guests. If you have the chance to visit a Greek family you will understand 😉 …afterwards you probably won’t be able to eat for at least a day.

Options for your leisure time on Crete

In your free time you can eat at restaurants, enjoy hikes, visit historical places, relax at beautiful beaches with many water activities (snorkeling, jet ski etc.) or go shopping.

Furthermore, Crete has a lot of nature to offer: Many mountains twist and turn their majestic shapes all around the island. And in addition, the island is surrounded by such a blue sea you will hardly encounter anywhere else. You will see many goats climbing the mountains next to the highways and donkeys carrying the loads of their owners. If you take a boat trip around the island it’s very likely that you will spot some dolphins as well.

If you like warm weather, beautiful sea, beaches, good food, nature, mythology, a lovely mentality and traditions; you can do your internship in Greece and Crete is the island for you!

Find out more about exciting excursions on Crete: :https://www.s-w-e-p.com/en/internship-crete-info/

Internship in Greece – Offer

One of our 5-star partner hotel is regularly looking for an intern on Crete in the

Public Relations Department.

The hotel is situated near a beautiful beach where you can spend your days off or let an internship day come to an end. The hotel will provide free board and accommodation and additionally the hotel pays a remuneration of 400 € per month. At the beginning your mentor of the hotel will guide you through your tasks and after a while you will be performing on your own. During your internship in Greece you will gain valuable experiences abroad and learn a lot for life.

That sounds great, right?

Your tasks as an intern on Crete

You will have a wide range of tasks during your internship in Greece in a hotel on Crete. The support of customers is always the most important task when it comes to Public Relations. Therefore, the support of VIP guests is even more important (very important 🙂). But the intern on Crete also has to focus on the support of incentive groups. The intern will be assisting during hotel tours.

Another important task of the Public Relations Department is dealing with and responding to complaints. In cooperation with the tutor of the hotel and together with travel agencies the intern has to work on the Complaint Management. Of course, there will always be some guests who won’t be content with the standards of the hotel or the services. Complaint Management is not the easiest part but it’s the most useful task an intern can carry out. No matter what you’re going to do in your future at one point you have to deal with complaints. This is why it is crucial to start preparing yourself. Additionally, you will be responsible for welcoming guests at the reception and at the entrance of the hotel restaurant. Another important part of your internship in Greece will be the translation and evaluation of guest questionnaires.

What do you need for your internship in Greece?

First of all, you have to be at least 18 years old and have an EU nationality to do your hotel internship in Greece. It would be a plus if your studies are related to Public Relations but it’s not mandatory. You can also just do a voluntary internship. Furthermore, you should have good English skills. In addition, you have to be very communicative and eloquent with a pleasant appearance. You also have to stay friendly and calm even if clients are complaining. Sometimes hotel guests can get a bit nasty but that will be an exception, don’t worry. In the end you have to be a very patient person. You should enjoy working with international customers and have an interest in tourism, travelling and the hotel industry. Of course, you should also take delight in working with different languages and translations.

If you can identify yourself with this internship offer, we are happy to receive your CV. Regarding any questions don’t hesitate to contact us. If Public Relations is not the field of internship for you but you would love to become an intern on Crete or realize your internship in Greece you can also apply for the Reception or Restaurant Department.

See you during your internship in Greece!

More about Crete

PR Department

Application

The post Your PR Internship in Greece appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internships on the Canary Islands

Conny — Wed, 07 Mar 2018 17:15:52 +0000

Internships on the Canary Islands – where would you like to go?

Many people choose the Canary Islands as their vacation destination and here’s why. First, these islands have fantastic weather, beautiful nature, friendly people, and delicious food. But what makes it even more exciting is that each island is unique.

Imagine exploring lush forests, discovering ancient volcanic craters, or relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Plus, the weather stays great all year.

But there’s more to it! You can also enjoy lots of fun activities and learn about their rich culture. And if you’re thinking about doing an internship, these islands are an excellent place to learn and grow personally and professionally.

Whether you decide to go alone, with friends, or with your school class, it’s important to know that each Canary Island has its special qualities. To find your perfect match, let’s dive into what makes each island different:

Internships on the Canary Islands: Tenerife

General Information

Tenerife is the largest of the 7 Canary Islands. It has the largest animal park and the largest mountain in Spain, as well as the largest water park in Europe. Tenerife’s Latin-American influence with a touch of Africa will pleasantly surprise you. In many ways, Tenerife resembles a continent in itself, thanks to its very diverse vegetation. From the green landscapes in the north to the numerous sandy beaches in the south, there is something for everyone.

Culture and history

Tenerife boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage deeply influenced by its strategic location between Europe, Africa, and America. The indigenous Guanche inhabited the island before Spanish colonization in the 15th century, leaving behind archaeological sites and cultural remnants. Today, Tenerife’s culture reflects this blend of indigenous and Spanish traditions, with vibrant festivals like Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife showcasing this fusion. The island is also famous for its unique cuisine, featuring dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauces.

Leisure activities

This island is the perfect place to be if you like to enjoy the sun while you do your internship. Its beautiful beaches and clear sea water invites you to do lots of water sports. Whether surfing, diving, paddle boarding or jet skiing. Here you can not only do a lot on shore. Passionate dancers seeking to learn Bachata or Salsa can take advantage of the vibrant nightlife and various dance classes on offer.

If you need to cool off, you can visit one of the many beautiful beaches or you and your friends could take a trip to Los Gigantes and take a refreshing swim in one of the few piscinas naturales. This is the name for pools that have been formed by nature and are also filled with seawater.

From Los Gigantes, but also from the tourist hotspot of Los Cristianos or from Playa de las Américas, you can purchase tickets for a whale or dolphin watching tour to go out to sea in a catamaran, a speedboat or a glass-bottom boat to observe the beautiful marine animals. Attention: Not for seasick people!

Destinations

For fans of the outdoors, especially for hikers, a trip to the small village Masca in the Teno Mountains is a must, as one of the most famous hiking trails in Tenerife starts here. There are only 80 houses, nonetheless it is very lively because the beautiful landscape attracts a lot of tourists every year. Although the drive to Masca involves navigating a challenging serpentine road, the rewards are undeniably worth the effort.

The capital of the island is Santa Cruz. The city offers numerous shopping opportunities with the main shopping street Calle de Castillo. If you want to shop in Santa Cruz, you can also save money during the time of the rebajas, when there are many good deals to be found.

So, what do you say? Would you and your friends consider Tenerife as the ideal location for your internships on the Canary Islands?

Internships on the Canary Islands: Gran Canaria

General Information

Gran Canaria has everything any intern could want. To begin with, it boasts golden beaches and beautiful nature, alongside oases and deserts. There is something for everyone, young and old. The island earns the title “island of eternal spring” due to its pleasant year-round temperatures. In the winter, it remains warm, while in summer, it avoids becoming excessively hot due to the cooling Atlantic breeze.

Culture and history

Culturally, Gran Canaria has a lot to offer. In the traditional fishing village Puerto de Mogán many tourists and locals can be found. The small, picturesque alleys and canals are reminiscent of Italy, which is why the village is often called the “Venice of the South”.

If you are interested in marine biology in addition to your internship, a unique opportunity awaits to venture out to sea in a submarine and explore the underwater world. The microclimate of the Municipio of Mogán has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the healthiest in the world.

Furthermore, Christopher Columbus briefly resided on Gran Canaria in 1492 during his journey to discover America. He landed on the island to repair one of his ships. You can visit his house Casa de Colón which is now also a museum in the capital Las Palmas. If you are interested in history, you can visit exhibitions on Columbus, the Canary Islands, historical maps, and navigational instruments on the first floor of the house.

Leisure activities

Gran Canaria emerges as a paradise for sports enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of activities. Water sports like surfing are incredibly popular, especially in spots like Playa del Inglés and Playa de las Canteras. The island’s consistent winds make it a hotspot for windsurfing, attracting enthusiasts to locations like Pozo Izquierdo. For underwater exploration, there are fantastic scuba diving opportunities around the marine reserves near La Isleta and Pasito Blanco.

Hiking is a must-do activity, with trails like the Roque Nublo hike providing stunning views of the island’s unique landscapes. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the rugged terrain around Ayagaures or tackle the challenging trails in Tamadaba Natural Park.

Throughout the year, Gran Canaria hosts sporting events such as the Gran Canaria Marathon, Transgrancanaria Ultra Trail, and windsurfing championships. Consequently, it stands as a lively destination that will delight sports admirers.

Destinations

An important item on the to-do list when doing your internship in Gran Canaria is visiting the dunes of Maspalomas, 6 kilometers long and 2 kilometers wide, stretching from Playa del Inglés to the Maspalomas Lighthouse. You’ll feel like you are right in the Sahara, although the sand is not Sahara sand, but made of coral and shells that were crushed by the water movement and then washed ashore.

The nightlife on Gran Canaria provides various possibilities for having unforgettable party nights. The Plaza de España in the capital Las Palmas is the place to go. It is always full of people until dawn. There is even much more going on at the south coast; a place where nobody seems to sleep, except at siesta time, for sure.

Do you and your friends consider Gran Canaria when thinking about the location of your internships on the Canary Islands?

Internships on the Canary Islands: Fuerteventura

General Information

Referred to as the “jewel of the Canary Island’s crown”, Fuerteventura presents unparalleled possibilities and opportunities for surfers worldwide all year round. The water always has pleasant temperatures, there are many international surfers and the surf spots are easy to access. Remarkably, it stands as the second-largest island, following Tenerife, and holds the distinction of being the oldest among them all.

Even though its popularity is increasing day by day, Fuerteventura maintains a very relaxed atmosphere. The island also has one of the most impressive stretches of sand due to the fact that it is only 100 km off the coast of Africa, so after your day at work you can relax with a walk along the endless, beautiful white beaches while gazing at the azure ocean.

Culture and history

There is no sure translation of the island name. However, it is believed to be composed of the two Spanish words “fuerte” (strong) and “viento” (wind) as a reference to the strong winds that exist on the island.

Fuerteventura’s history reflects its strategic location, which made it a stopover for explorers and conquerors throughout the centuries. It was also inhabited by the indigenous Guanche people, who lived a semi-nomadic life and left behind archaeological sites like Tindaya Mountain, which is considered sacred.

In the 15th century, the island was conquered by the Spanish, bringing a new era of colonial influence, and you can still see Spanish colonial architecture in towns like Betancuria. The island’s culture is further enriched by its stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches like Playa de Sotavento and volcanic formations like the Malpaís de la Aren.

Leisure activities

Fuerteventura the dream of any sporty intern, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes and favourable climate. This Canary Island offers a diverse range of sports activities, making it an ideal spot for both adrenaline junkies and those seeking a more active vacation.

Windsurfing and kiteboarding are iconic sports here, with Fuerteventura known for its consistent trade winds. The beaches of Sotavento and Flag Beach in Corralejo are renowned worldwide for these exhilarating water sports.

For those who prefer exploring the island on land, mountain biking is a popular option. Fuerteventura presents a variety of trails suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.

Destinations

A visit to the white sand dunes of the Parque Natural de Corralejo is a must. There you can see real sand from the Sahara Desert. If you need new inspiration or just want to take in the aesthetic impressions, stop by the historical town of Betancuria in a lush valley, which features well-preserved architecture and cultural sites.

Puerto del Rosario, the capital of Fuerteventura, is a vibrant urban centre known for its cultural attractions such as the Casa Museo Unamuno and its lively local gastronomic scene that offers a taste of authentic Canarian cuisine. The city serves as the administrative and commercial centre of the island and offers a blend of historic charm and modern comforts.

Clearly, Fuerteventura stands as an exceptional destination for your internships on the Canary Islands!

Internships on the Canary Islands: Lanzarote

General Information

The beautiful volcanic island Lanzarote, with its red shimmer, lies off the coast of Morocco. Of all the 7 Canary Islands, Lanzarote’s landscape bears the closest similarity to a typical African one. Since the island has a lot of deserts, it’s hard to imagine the beauty of Lanzarote’s beaches.

Distinguished by its volcanic landscapes, the island’s unique appearance is a product of its tumultuous geological history, marked by a series of volcanic eruptions in the 18th century.

Lanzarote boasts a warm climate, maintaining average temperatures of 20°C year-round. This makes it an ideal destination for interns seeking valuable work experiences, abundant sunshine, and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Culture and history

Lanzarote’s unique landscape is shaped by its volcanic origins, with dramatic lava fields and craters like Timanfaya National Park, showcasing its turbulent geological past.

The island’s history includes Spanish colonial influence dating back to the 15th century, as well as the presence of pirates who once used it as a base, leaving their mark on its architecture and fortifications, such as the Castillo de San Gabriel in Arrecife.

Lanzarote’s cuisine features fresh seafood and traditional Canarian dishes, offering a delightful taste of the local culture. Additionally, Lanzarote is known for its unique “malvasía” wine production, further enriching its cultural heritage.

Leisure activities

This Canary Island offers a diverse range of leisure activities for interns to enjoy. The island’s stunning beaches are a major attraction, with their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Playa Blanca, Papagayo Beach, and Famara Beach are popular spots for sunbathing and swimming.

Nature enthusiasts can embark on explorations of the surreal landscapes within Timanfaya National Park—a volcanic wonderland. Guided tours offer an opportunity to witness geothermal activity, including geysers and the famous Fire Mountains.

Destinations

In the north, you’ll come across Puerto del Carmen, a bustling resort town known for its vibrant nightlife, numerous dining options, and Playa Grande, a long sandy beach. The Old Town area offers a more traditional atmosphere with narrow streets and local markets.

Continuing your journey, the island’s capital, Arrecife, seamlessly combines culture and modernity, with attractions like San Ginés Castle, Charco de San Ginés (a picturesque lagoon), and the bustling shopping district of Calle León y Castillo.

For a unique escape, take a short ferry ride to La Graciosa, officially part of the Chinijo Archipelago. It’s a serene island with beautiful beaches and a relaxed ambiance, making it an ideal day trip or overnight getaway.

Without a doubt, you definitely need to take Lanzarote into account when planning your internships on the Canary Islands!

Now it’s up to you!

On which of the Canary Islands do you choose to do your hotel internship? No matter which one you choose, we promise that you will have an unforgettable adventure, make many international friends, develop as a person, and also gain valuable work experience. We thank all our interns for sending us these magical photos during their internships on the Canary Islands.

If you want to find out more about internships on the Canary Islands, check out our Facebook and Instagram page!

Click here to find our free vacancies for internships on the Canary Islands.

Locations

Our vacancies

Application

The post Internships on the Canary Islands appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

5 reasons why you should do an Erasmus Internship

Conny — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 11:06:26 +0000

Did you ever dream about living in a foreign country, immersing yourself in a new culture, and gaining valuable professional experience? If so, then an Erasmus internship might be the perfect opportunity for you. Embarking on an internship abroad offers a multitude of benefits that can enhance both your personal and professional life.

An internship with S-W-E-P allows you to get valuable insights and experiences in all departments of the hotel industry. Advance your communication skills as a receptionist on Tenerife, learn to handle challenges in the Public Relations Department in Malta or entertain the hotel guests on Lanzarote. No matter what area of the hotel industry you are interested in, we have it all! You can work in the field of your choice all while getting to know the culture, people, and cuisine of a new home.

Still not convinced?

Here are 5 compelling reasons why you should do an Erasmus Internship:

1. Working and living abroad? Yes, please!

If you have ever yearned to embrace life in a foreign country but hesitated due to fear and uncertainty, an Erasmus internship offers the ideal solution to your concerns. One of the biggest doubts people have when thinking about moving to another country is the prospect of leaving everything familiar behind – friends, family, and the comfort of home. It is natural to wonder whether you will be able to adapt to a new environment, make new connections, and understand cultural nuances. However, the Erasmus internship program provides a structured and supportive framework to help ease these concerns. It fosters a sense of community among participants and creating a supportive network of peers who are navigating similar experiences and challenges. This network can be invaluable in providing guidance, encouragement, and friendship throughout your time abroad.

An Erasmus internship is not just a chance to gain valuable work experience—it is a gateway to a world of personal growth and enrichment. By taking the plunge into a new chapter of your life, you will not only expand your professional horizons but also immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of a different culture, language, and way of life. It is an opportunity to break free from the confines of familiarity and embrace the exhilarating challenge of living and working in a foreign country.

So, don’t let fear hold you back any longer. Embrace the adventure of an Erasmus internship and embark on a journey that promises to redefine your perspective, broaden your horizons, and enrich your life in ways you never imagined possible. It is not just about building your career—it is about crafting a life filled with adventure, growth, and endless possibilities.

How often do opportunities arise to start a truly transformative adventure, to step into the unknown, and embrace the thrill of something entirely new? The time is now! Seize the moment and start your discovery through an Erasmus internship.

2. Boost your CV with international experience

In today’s fiercely competitive job market, an internship abroad offers a golden chance to refine your resume with invaluable practical work experience gained abroad. Employers highly prize candidates who exhibit adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a global outlook—attributes that an Erasmus internship abundantly fosters. Whether improving your communication abilities or mastering the diversity of international customers, each facet of your Erasmus internship journey contributes significantly to your professional portfolio. Furthermore, the cultural exchange raises mutual understanding and collaboration across borders. By working alongside individuals from diverse backgrounds, you gain insights into different work styles, communication norms, and problem-solving approaches, enhancing your own skill set and your ability to collaborate effectively in multicultural teams. Every employer will be grateful for the experience you are contributing!

While networking within academic circles is undoubtedly beneficial, the breadth of networking prospects intensifies exponentially through an Erasmus internship abroad. Stepping into a fresh work milieu in a foreign land, every interaction evolves into forging meaningful ties with international professionals, peers, and potential friends. These connections not only augment your professional trajectory but also infuse your personal range with diversity and resonance. Therefore, seize this opportunity to broaden your horizons, cultivate new relationships, and weave a network that will accompany and bolster you along your career path, regardless of where it leads.

Moreover, the skills acquired and experiences gathered during an Erasmus internship go beyond the confines of a typical academic or professional setting. Immersion in a foreign culture provides a unique lens through which to view the world, fostering empathy, tolerance, and a broader perspective. Negotiating everyday challenges in an unfamiliar environment cultivates resilience and resourcefulness, qualities that are highly valued in today’s dynamic work landscape.

3. Immerse yourself in a new culture

An Erasmus internship is more than mere professional advancement; it serves as a gateway to profound cultural immersion. Diving headfirst into life and work in a foreign country opens up a mesmerizing panorama of customs, traditions, and perspectives that differ significantly from one’s own. From partaking in fascinating festivities to savoring local culinary delights, every facet of daily life unfurls as an invitation to delve deeper into the fabric of a new culture.

Yet, the significance of cultural immersion extends far beyond the surface. Cultural immersion encompasses the cultivation of empathy and the forging of genuine connections with individuals hailing from diverse backgrounds. Whether engaged in heartfelt dialogues with locals, navigating the intricacies of social etiquette or bonding over shared anecdotes during communal meals, each interaction throughout your Erasmus internship leaves a permanent mark on your worldview, fostering a more profound appreciation for human diversity.

Moreover, amidst the whirlwind of cultural exploration, it’s the memories—the laughter-filled escapades, the moments of unexpected discovery, and the bonds forged through shared experiences—that endure as the cornerstone of your Erasmus internship journey. These memories weave together to craft a narrative of personal evolution and enlightenment that extends far beyond the duration of the internship itself.

Therefore, embrace this chance to forge connections with a different culture and cultivate perspectives that will not only broaden your horizons but also shape the course of your life in ways previously unforeseen.

4. Break out of your comfort zone and grow

Comfort zones provide a sense of security and familiarity but they also confine us within boundaries that limit our potential for growth. An Erasmus internship serves as an encouragement for liberation, beckoning us to break free from these self-imposed constraints and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal evolution.

Venturing beyond the confines of our comfort zones entails more than just defying the uncertainties that lie ahead—it requires embracing the unfamiliar with unwavering courage and an open heart. Whether it is grappling with a foreign language, navigating the labyrinthine streets of an unfamiliar city, or adapting to the nuances of a new work culture, each facet of your Erasmus Internship journey serves as a pivotal milestone in your quest for personal growth. It is not merely about the tangible achievements you accumulate throughout your internship—it is about the profound transformation you undergo in the process.

So, seize the opportunity to step beyond the limitations of your comfort zone, embrace the uncertainties that lie ahead, and bloom into the best version of yourself through the transformative journey of an Erasmus internship.

5. Applying for an Erasmus Internship is so easy!

What even is an Erasmus grant? Who receives it and how do I apply for it? Here are some stats and facts summarized for you:

Erasmus+ is the EU’s program to support education, training and youth, which was launched in 1987. It has an estimated budget of €26.2 billion. In the year 2022, close to 26,000 projects were awarded contracts, providing support to an expansive network of over 73,000 organizations hailing from both member states and third countries affiliated with the program. Additionally, a remarkable cohort exceeding 1.2 million learners and staff engaged in mobility activities throughout the same year. By the end of 2022, ever since the establishment in 1987, the cumulative beneficiaries of program initiatives have surpassed an impressive count of 13.7 million individuals. Interestingly, the country with the most outbound and inbound students is Spain.

Erasmus+ remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering inclusive access to mobility opportunities that facilitate lifelong learning. Central to Erasmus’ philosophy is the promotion of educational travel. What distinguishes the Erasmus experience is the multitude of individuals who actively seek to enrich their educational journey by venturing abroad for study purposes. Across various domains including youth and sport, adult and school education, vocational education and training, and higher education, Erasmus extends paths for collaboration and mobility to both organizations and individuals alike. In essence, the program serves as a catalyst for personal and professional growth by offering financial support for cooperative endeavors and mobility initiatives.

Applying for an Erasmus internship is straightforward with the support of your university or educational institution and us, your S-W-E-P Team. The Erasmus program is designed to make international mobility accessible to students and alleviate the burden of financing a stay abroad. The financial support can cover the expenses of the travel, accommodation, and living costs during the internship period.

If you decide on embarking your Erasmus internship with S-W-E-P, we will help you gather all the required documents and ease the communication with your work place. You must only reach out to your university’s Erasmus office or international programs department. Don’t let the fear of bureaucracy discourage you from pursuing this life-changing experience. Take the leap and initiate the journey of a lifetime with an Erasmus internship.

To sum up:

An Erasmus internship offers a unique blend of professional development, cultural immersion, and personal growth opportunities. Whether you are passionate about expanding your skill set, broadening your horizons, or simply embarking on an exciting adventure, the benefits of an internship abroad are undeniable. So why wait? Embrace the opportunity to go on this adventure, knowing that every challenge you overcome and connection you forge will contribute to your growth and success, both professionally and personally.

Locations

Our vacancies

Application

The post 5 reasons why you should do an Erasmus Internship appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Internship on Tenerife – Top 10 must see

Conny — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 10:10:32 +0000

Our hints for excursions during your internship on Tenerife

1.Teide Nationalpark

With 3718 Meter the Pico del Teide is the highest mountain of Spain. The Teide is the 3rd highest island volcano of the earth and a must see during your internship on Tenerife.

You can climb up the Teide over a well signed trail. At 3260 Meter height there is a shelter named Refugio de Altavista. The historical building was renovated and offers a simple place to stay a night for a fairly price. It’s impressive to be on top of Teide especially before the sun rises. Another option is the Teleférico del Teide, a cable car which brings you up to 150 high meters below the crater.

To climb up the top of Teide, you need a permission which you can get either on the Internet or in the national park administration’s office in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. We recommend you to apply for the permission early when you plan your trip during your internship on Tenerife because the Teide is a popular destination in general and the amount of permitted mountaineer per day is limited to a certain number.

2. Garachico

A small town which you should visit during your internship on Tenerife is Garachico. It used to be a great economical trade point with the most famous harbor on Tenerife. After the volcanic eruption of the Montaña de Trebejo, Garachico lost its status and economical value but remained its beauty through a combination of old and new buildings. The Mirador de Garachico offers you a great view over the small town and its coastline. Near the Castillo de San Miguel is where you can take a bath in the famous „piscinas naturales”- natural pools. Garachico has a cozy, rural character and offers an experience you shouldn’t miss during your internship on Tenerife. You can enjoy the combination of having fun in the sea and relaxing during a walk through the village.

3. Anaga Mountains

Do you like hiking? Tenerife offers many hiking opportunities and one of them are the Anaga Mountains. Go for a trip to the Anaga Mountains in the north-east of the island during your internship on Tenerife and let natures beauty amaze you. About seven to nine million years ago, the mountains were formed due to volcanic activities. Typical for Anaga are the caves in the volcanic rocks whose fronts and interior decors look like typical local single-family houses, like in Afur and Chinamada. They are great subjects for your pictures. The Anaga Mountains are one of the most beautiful regions on Tenerife with their bright green landscape, deep canyons, and stunning views on the Atlantic Ocean. There are many well signed hiking trails that lead you through the enchanted forests and show you a unique ecosystem. A must see within the Anaga Mountains during your internship on Tenerife is the Camino Viejo al Pico del Inglés – a road that leads you in between high, moss-covered walls with an overgrown laurel forest roof. From here you can easily reach the Mirador Pico del Inglés and enjoy the stunning view all the way to Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The Anaga Mountains are definitely worth a visit during your internship on Tenerife.

4. Loro Park and Siam Park

Loro Park is a huge zoo which is worth a visit during your internship on Tenerife. It is also located in the north in Puerto de la Cruz and has parks, tropical gardens, aquariums and areas for shows. At the Loro Park you find the biggest number of parrots gathered in one place; with the 4000 animals, you find 350 species and some very rare ones, too. You can also watch tigers, crocodiles, gorillas, and even bats. An African market, a Thai village, a house full of orchids as well as restaurants and cafeterias complete the offer. The price for a ticket is 42 Euro. You can also buy a combination ticket together with Siam Park for 74 Euro. Visiting the Loro Park during your internship on Tenerife will be a great experience. Here is the link to the web page for more information: www.loroparque.com.

Siam Park is an attraction in the south of the island and offers a great waterpark experience during your internship on Tenerife. It is the biggest water park in all of Europe and arouses the old Thailand around the theme of water. On the area of 185km² you can find temple and big dragons as well as 8 waterslides. One special waterslide, the Tower of Power with a height of 28 meters, leads you through an aquarium full of sharks. In an artificially bay with white sand, there are 3-meter-high waves which offer you and your friends lots of fun during a day off on your internship on Tenerife. The admission charge is 42 Euro. Find more information at: www.siampark.net.

5. La Laguna

La Laguna, officially named San Cristóbal de la Laguna, is located west to Santa Cruz and offers you an interesting stay on your trip to the north during your internship on Tenerife. The city is crowned as an UNESCO world heritage site, offers you many characteristics of the colonial architecture and is home to the University of La Laguna which has over 30,000 students. Due to its many students and for having been the first university city of the archipelago, there is the habit of La Laguna being called the “City of the anticipated ones”. La Laguna also offers you wide pedestrian zones and many art historical and historical routes that lead you through the city. You can find many historical buildings like Igelisa del Cristo, Palacio de Nava, Palacio de Salazar or Convento de Santa Catalina and Convento de Santa Clara and really get to know the history of La Laguna during your internship on Tenerife.

6. Icod de los Vinos

In Icod de los Vinos has been known for its wine since the 16th century. Not only can you still visit Icod de los Vinos on Tenerife for its good red wine during your internship on Tenerife but you can see the „Drago Milenario“, the most famous dragon tree of the Canary Islands. People used to think the tree would be more or less 3000 years old; due to recent findings the age of the dragon tree is now assessed at 800 years. This tree is even found in the city’s coat of arms.

Next to the Drago Milenario you should visit the Parque del Drago, the botanical garden, as well as the old town with all its sights. The Museo de Guanche which is the ethnographic museum of Tenerife’s native people, will give you a deeper insight into Tenerife’s history. The Cuerva del Viento is the longest lava tube Europe’s and another must see while visiting Icod de los Vinos during your internship on Tenerife.

7. Pirámides de Güímar

If you are interested in Tenerife’s history and its ancient civilization, the ethnographical park Pirámides de Güímar is another highlight for you while doing your internship on Tenerife. There are six rectangular, stepped pyramids made of lava rocks that reach up to four meter in height. The park was founded in 1998 by Thor Heyerdahl to protect the pyramids in Güímar. Due to the arrangement of the pyramids and the measurement of their position it was assumed that besides for ritual uses they were also used for some astronomical reasons. Inside the Casa Chacona, the museum of the ethnographical park Pirámides de Güímar, you can find further theories on the origin and purpose of the pyramids alongside many other exhibitions focused on the ancient civilization.

8. El Médano

El Médano, Spanish for “sand dune”, offers you the longest beach area on the island to soak up the sun, watch the many wind- and kitesurfers or get active yourself by taking lessons at one of the many surf schools. The sand on the beach has a dark brown color with a touch of bright Sahara sand. On a day off during your internship on Tenerife you can also visit a lot of nice cafes along the promenade of El Médano. You can find the best creperie in the town center as well as other small restaurants, and typical Spanish tapas bars. On Saturdays you can visit the market that takes place at the Plaza, the big town square, located right by the beach.

9. La Candelaria

Candelaria lies on the south-east coastal side of Tenerife and is one of the most important catholic villages of pilgrimage of the Canary Islands. In the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria – Basilica of Candelaria – you can find the figure of the patron of the Canary Islands, la Virgen de la Candelaria. The inside of the church is designed with Mudéjar-style wooden ceilings in petrol-blue and a grey-white color. Directly opposite across from the church, at the beachside of the Plaza de la Patrona de Canarias, are nine huge statues of the most famous Guanche Kings.

The Calle Obiso Pérez Càceres offers a pedestrian zone with many fish restaurants and boutiques to enjoy and buy some souvenirs. Not far from the pedestrian zone you can find colourful boats on the ocean and the city hall Ayuntamiento which you should visit in La Candelaria while you are doing your internship on Tenerife.

10. Playa de las Teresitas

In the North of Santa Cruz in San Andrés is the Playa de las Teresitas. The perfect beach for one of your free days during your internship on Tenerife. The Playa de las Teresitas is a 2-kilometer-long beach which was created in the 1970s by spreading light yellow sand from the Sahara and building an artificial reef to lower the strength of the current. The beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches on Tenerife and is as popular for tourist as it is for locals. If you get the chance to visit San Andrés while you do your internship on Tenerife, definitely visit Playa de las Teresitas!

More about Tenerife

Our vacancies

Locations

The post Internship on Tenerife – Top 10 must see appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Hotel internship on Lanzarote

Conny — Mon, 27 Jun 2016 11:29:04 +0000

Read why Lanzarote is the perfect island for your internship in Spain – hotel internship on Lanzarote

Picture yourself gaining hands-on experience in the hospitality industry while living on one of Spain’s most beautiful islands, Lanzarote. A hotel internship on Lanzarote offers you the perfect combination of obtaining invaluable work experience and going on once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Why Lanzarote?

Lanzarote is the most northeastern of the main, larger Canary Islands and combines volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches and artistic landmarks into a fascinating scenery. The year-round pleasant weather allows you to explore the island’s natural wonders, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and friendly people at any time of the year; therefore, it is always possible to start your hotel internship on Lanzarote, no matter the time of the year or season.

Immerse yourself in Lanzarote’s rich heritage and life

Internship on Lanzarote: A Cultural Journey Through History, Art, and Cuisine

History
The island’s roots trace back to the 15^th century. The influence of the Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, is still evident in some of the island’s cultural practices and local traditions. You can explore historic sites like the ancient cave dwellings of the Guanches in the Cueva de los Verdes, or visit the Castillo de San José, a historic fortress-turned into a museum that tells the story of the island’s past.

Art and architecture
One of Lanzarote’s most significant cultural contributions comes from César Manrique, a local artist and architect who left an incredible mark on the island. His work seamlessly integrates with the island’s natural environment, including the famous Cactus Garden, Jameos del Agua, and the Mirador del Río. His vision has helped preserve the unique charm and has made a significant impact on its cultural identity. Visiting these landmarks during your hotel internship on Lanzarote will give you a deeper appreciation of the island’s artistic and architectural heritage.

Culture
The island is known for its traditional music and dance, particularly the folk songs and dances that celebrate its rich history. Local festivals, such as the annual Carnival of Lanzarote and the Fiesta de San Juan, are lively events filled with colorful parades, music, and dance that showcase the island’s cheerful spirit.

Cuisine
The island’s cuisine is a delightful reflection of its cultural blend. Traditional dishes often feature fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and unique ingredients like the famous Lanzarote black potatoes. Also be sure to try “mojos,” delicious local sauces that accompanies many dishes, and indulge in some “papas arrugadas” the island’s signature wrinkled potatoes. The local wines, produced from grapes grown in volcanic soil, are also a must-try as well as a unique experience during your hotel internship on Lanzarote.

A gateway to the hospitality industry

A hotel internship on Lanzarote offers more than just a chance to live on a beautiful island. It is an opportunity to explore the world of hospitality and gain valuable work experience. Lanzarote’s multifaceted hospitality industry offers a wide range of departments, allowing you to tailor your internship to your preferences.

Internship opportunities and roles

From supporting the hotel manager with daily tasks in Management Assistance to diving into budgeting and financial reporting in Administration & Finance, each internship position provides comprehensive exposure to many aspects of hotel operations.

For those interested in working with people, the Human Resources department offers experience in recruitment and the staff development, while Public Relations & Quality Management focuses on enhancing the hotel’s image and ensuring high service standards.

If analyzing market trends and finding ways to increase sales are your passions, then the Marketing & Sales department is for you. Meanwhile, working at the Reception department will allow you to engage directly with guests, handling check-ins and addressing inquiries with professionalism.

For a taste of the wellness industry, the Wellness, Spa & Beauty Treatments department provides insights into luxury spa treatments and operations.

You might prefer to do your internship in the Restaurant, Bars, and Kitchen departments, where you immerse yourself in the food and beverage service environment.

Whether you’re organizing exciting events in the Entertainment department or providing family-friendly activities in Childcare, each role offers valuable insight into the hospitality industry.

By working closely with seasoned professionals during your hotel internship on Lanzarote, you’ll have the chance to build relationships that could open doors to future job opportunities. Many interns have remarked that the mentorship and guidance they receive during their internships play a crucial role in shaping their careers.

Moreover, Lanzarote’s reputation as a top tourist destination means you’ll be working in a high-demand, dynamic environment, which will look impressive on any résumé. Future employers will appreciate your experience in such a competitive and international setting.

Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and create unforgettable memories on this beautiful island.

Free time activities on Lanzarote

To create unforgettable memories during your hotel internship on Lanzarote, you have plenty of exciting activities to enjoy on the island.

Thrilling Activities and Unforgettable Experiences During Your Internship

Beach adventures:
The stunning coastline of Lanzarote offers a range of beach experiences to suit every preference. Whether you’re into surfing at Playa Famara, paddleboarding at Playa Blanca, or simply soaking up the sun at Playa Dorada or Playa Flamingo, the island’s golden sands and crystal-clear waters offer the perfect setting for both relaxation and water sports.
Outdoor activities:
For the adventurous at heart, Lanzarote’s landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Hike through volcanic terrain in the Timanfaya National Park, bike along scenic trails in Los Volcanes Natural Park, or explore the island’s rugged coastlines near Los Hervideros. Activities like mountain biking and hiking allow you to experience the island’s natural beauty up close.

Cultural experiences:
Immerse yourself during your hotel internship on Lanzarote in the vibrant culture by visiting local markets such as the Teguise Market, where you can find traditional foods and crafts. You might also like to participate in workshops and attend classes in towns like Arrecife to learn about traditional Canary Islands crafts or cooking.
Nightlife and entertainment:
When the sun sets, Lanzarote comes alive with a variety of entertainment options. Enjoy a lively night out in Puerto del Carmen with its bars and clubs, or catch a live performance at venues such as the Tías Theatre or Recinto Ferial in Arrecife. Lanzarote’s diverse nightlife offers something for everyone.
Wellness and relaxation:
If you prefer a more laid-back approach, indulge in the Lanzarote’s wellness offerings. Relax at a spa or enjoy a massage. The serene environment of Lanzarote’s natural landscapes enhances your relaxation and wellness experiences.

Dining and socializing:
Explore Lanzarote’s culinary scene by trying out local restaurants and eateries. From fresh seafood to traditional Canarian dishes, the island offers a wide range of dining options. Socialize with fellow interns or colleagues at charming cafés and restaurants to fully immerse yourself in the island’s culture and cuisine.

And if you feel like you have already explored everything during your hotel internship on Lanzarote, or simply need a change of scenery, there is one great advantage of doing an internship on Lanzarote. You have very convenient access to all the other Canary Islands. There are regular and quick ferry connections and short flights that allow you to explore the nearby islands such as Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Therefore, you can easily do quick trips during your internship, making the most of your time on the islands.

Language and communication skills improvement

Elevate Your Language and Communication Skills Through Immersive Experiences in Hospitality

One of the standout benefits of a hotel internship on Lanzarote is the opportunity to enhance your language and communication skills. Living and working in a Spanish-speaking environment offers you a great chance to improve your proficiency in Spanish and English, both of which are a valuable asset for your future.

While working during your hotel internship on Lanzarote, you’ll interact with international guests and local staff, providing opportunities to practice and refine your Spanish. Whether you’re helping guests at the reception, coordinating with colleagues in different departments, or participating in team activities, you’ll become more comfortable and fluent in everyday conversations.

We offer language courses, giving you the opportunity to enhance your language skills either before or after your internship. These courses are designed to help you further develop your Spanish skills, making it easier to communicate effectively and integrate more seamlessly into the local environment during your time in Spain.

Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds will help you gain a deeper understanding of cultural differences and learn how to communicate respectfully and empathetically. This cultural sensitivity improves both your guest interactions and your overall experience, making you more adaptable and aware in a variety of professional settings.

Take the Leap: Apply for a Hotel Internship on Lanzarote

By the end of your hotel internship on Lanzarote, you’ll have significantly improved your language skills and communication abilities, preparing you for future roles in hospitality and other sectors. Whether you plan to work in international hotels, travel, or global industries, these enhanced skills will make you a more competitive and effective professional.

So, are you ready for your next adventure?

Apply now for a hotel internship on Lanzarote, and gain hands-on experience in the hospitality industry while living on one of Spain’s most beautiful islands. Improve your language skills, explore vibrant local culture, and enjoy easy access to the beautiful Canary Islands.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity – your unforgettable experience awaits!

More about Lanzarote

Locations

Our vacancies

The post Hotel internship on Lanzarote appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

Hotel Internships abroad with Erasmus+

Conny — Tue, 21 Jun 2016 11:38:13 +0000

Erasmus interns arrive on Tenerife to do a hotel internship abroad – a warm welcome

We are always thrilled to welcome Erasmus+ groups of interns at Tenerife South Airport, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in their careers. These young students are arriving for their hotel internship abroad on Tenerife, an opportunity made possible by the Erasmus+ program. For us, organizing internships for such groups is a rewarding and fulfilling project. It gives us the chance to encourage the next generation of young professionals as they undertake this new experience abroad.

Our role and mission in organizing hotel internships for Erasmus+ groups

As an organization, we specialize in coordinating hotel internships abroad for students and Erasmus groups. Our role is to ensure that every aspect of the hotel internship abroad is well-organized, from their placement in our great partner hotels to offering ongoing assistance throughout their whole internship. Educational institutions rely on us to provide their students with comprehensive support, ensuring a seamless and rewarding international internship experience. With our expertise, schools and universities can feel confident that every detail is taken care of, from placement to guidance, for a successful journey abroad.

For us, it is important that interns are placed in partner hotels located close to one another. This proximity fosters a sense of community and ensures that the interns can encourage each other during their stay.

Our commitment to the interns

The arrival of our interns is a special moment, and from the very beginning, our mission is to ensure that each of them feels welcomed. This is why we personally go to Tenerife airport to pick up the group of Erasmus interns. We want to ensure their arrival is as smooth and stress-free as possible, making it easier for them to settle into their new environment. By providing this service, we ensure that they feel welcomed and supported right from the start of their journey.

Throughout their hotel internship abroad, we remain available to assist with any issues or questions that may arise. Whether it’s helping them navigate the work setting, offering advice on cultural integration, or simply being there to listen, our team is dedicated to making their internship as smooth and enriching as possible.

In addition to our direct assistance, the interns’ teachers often visit to check on their progress and ensure that their students are benefiting from the internship program. These visits also provide an opportunity for us to collaborate with the teachers to address any concerns and celebrate the interns’ achievements. This close relationship between our team, the interns, and their teachers is vital to the success of the program and helps ensure that the students get the most out of their internship experience.

Building a foundation for future careers

The hotels where our interns are working are renowned for their excellent service quality and guest satisfaction. These establishments are carefully chosen to provide an ideal workplace for the interns to learn and grow. During their hotel internship, the interns can gain firsthand experience in various departments such as reception, entertainment, public relations, marketing, food & beverage, and more. This comprehensive exposure is designed to equip them with knowledge they need for any future workplace.

By working closely with experienced professionals, the interns have the opportunity to observe best practices, learn new skills, and understand the day-to-day operations of a hotel. They also get to work alongside other interns, which fosters a sense of team spirit and mutual support. This collaborative work environment allows them to share their experiences, challenges, and successes, creating a strong foundation that can be significant, especially in a foreign country.

The experiences gained through this hotel internship abroad will benefit the interns not only professionally but also personally. They will leave with a deeper understanding of the hospitality industry, improved language skills, and a greater appreciation for different cultures. These are invaluable resources that will serve them well in their future careers and personal lives.

Experiencing Tenerife and cultural exchange, not just work

While often the primary focus of the hotel internship abroad is professional development, we believe that cultural exchange and personal growth are equally significant because it enhances adaptability, communication, and global awareness.

Tenerife, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history, offers the perfect backdrop for these young professionals to expand their horizons. We encourage our interns to explore the island, engage with the local community, and take advantage of the many opportunities for cultural immersion.

To help them settle in and bond with each other, we are planning group excursions. For example, we organize trips to one of Tenerife’s best attractions – the popular Jungle Park. The park is well-known for its immersive jungle surroundings, featuring lush greenery, winding paths, and a diverse array of wildlife.

The Jungle Park features a range of attractions, including spectacular animal shows and interactive exhibits. The bird show, for instance, is a highlight where visitors can witness the incredible beauty and talents of various bird species.

The park’s suspension bridges and bobsleigh ride add an element of adventure, allowing interns to experience the island’s natural beauty from unique perspectives. The visit also includes a delightful sea lion show, bringing joy and laughter while emphasizing the importance of leisure activities in maintaining a balanced and enjoyable hotel internship abroad experience. This visit is not just about fun; it also gives interns the opportunity to connect with each other outside of the work setting, improving collaboration, teamwork, relieving stress, and creating positive shared experience.

The importance of cultural exchange and personal growth

These excursions, while fun and entertaining, also serve a deeper purpose. It provides a valuable cultural experience, allowing the interns to learn more about the natural environment of Tenerife and the importance of wildlife conservation.

The Erasmus+ program is about more than just gaining professional skills; it’s about personal growth, cultural exchange, stepping out of your comfort zone, and broadening your horizons. By participating in activities like our trip to Jungle Park, the interns are not only learning about their chosen field but also about the world around them. This sense of community and shared experience is a key aspect of the Erasmus+ program, encouraging the interns to support one another and build friendships that will likely last a lifetime.

A promising future for our interns

As the interns settle into their new roles at the hotels, we are confident that they will make the most out of this incredible opportunity.

The skills they acquire during their hotel internship abroad will undoubtedly benefit them in their future careers, but the experiences they have outside of work will be equally important. Tenerife has so much to offer, from its breathtaking scenery to its lively cultural scene, and we encourage the interns to explore it all.

In the coming weeks, the interns will continue to participate in various activities to provide them with a well-rounded experience. Whether it’s visiting local landmarks, engaging with the local community, or simply enjoying the island’s natural beauty, there will be no shortage of opportunities for growth and discovery.

Ensuring a rewarding internship experience

We are always excited to see how the interns progress during their time and look forward to encouraging them every step of the way. As we continue to work with interns and witness their growth, we are reminded of the importance of programs like Erasmus+. They not only make a hotel internship abroad possible and provide valuable professional experience, but they also promote the values of diversity, inclusivity, and global citizenship.

In conclusion, the arrival of our Erasmus+ groups for a hotel internship abroad marks the beginning of an exciting and transformative journey. From their warm welcome at the airport to gain work experience in the hotel business to exploring the island, the interns are already making the most of their limited time here. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for them and are committed to ensuring that their internship experience is as enriching and rewarding as possible.

Start your own hotel internship abroad

If you’re inspired by this experience and want to participate in a hotel internship abroad, the Erasmus+ program is a great way to make it happen. To apply, first make sure your university or educational institution is part of the Erasmus+ network. Then, consult your international office to learn about the Erasmus+ grant for internships abroad, and find out how you can apply for it. The application process typically involves submitting a form, CV, motivation letter, and academic records. Once selected, you’ll be matched with a hotel internship placement, and Erasmus+ will support you throughout your journey.

On that note, if you want to join us, see more of the world, and gain work experience, send us your CV to info@s-w-e-p.com or fill out the registration on our website to apply for a hotel internship abroad!

More about Tenerife

Spanish Course

Our vacancies

The post Hotel Internships abroad with Erasmus+ appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.

English language course in Malta

Conny — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 13:47:53 +0000

In today’s interconnected world, mastering English is more important than ever. An English language course in Malta offers a fantastic opportunity to enhance personal, academic, and professional growth. Strong English proficiency opens doors to a variety of opportunities, allowing you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and providing a competitive edge in the global job market. If you’re looking to improve your English skills in a setting that combines high-quality education with a rich cultural experience, Malta is the ideal destination.

Welcome to our English language school in Malta

Located in the heart of St. Julian’s Bay, one of Malta’s most vibrant and beautiful locations, our partner English language school provides an ideal environment for students looking to improve their English. With stunning views of the Mediterranean and a lively neighbourhood filled with cafés, restaurants, and bars, this school offers the perfect balance of learning and leisure.

Housed in a beautifully renovated historic building, the school blends the charm of Malta’s rich history with modern amenities. Inside, there are 8 spacious and bright classrooms, all designed to provide an optimal learning environment. Equipped with modern and innovative technology, these classrooms ensure an engaging and interactive learning experience. Additional facilities include a teacher’s meeting room, a computer lab with free internet access, and a library and video room, all aimed at supporting students in their studies. The school also offers Wi-Fi throughout, air conditioning, central heating, a chill-out lounge, a kitchen, and sufficient common areas, creating a comfortable space for students to relax or continue studying during breaks.

At the school, the team of highly qualified, native English-speaking teachers is dedicated to helping each student improve their English skills. Their personalized approach ensures that every student receives the attention needed to succeed, whether they are beginners or looking to sharpen their language abilities for professional purposes. The English language course in Malta is designed to guide students throughout their language-learning journey, offering tailored lessons that cater to individual needs.

Why learning English is more important than ever

English is often referred to as the “global language.” As the most widely spoken language worldwide, it serves as the primary means of communication in business, travel, and online. In a world where opportunities are increasingly international, proficiency in English is crucial for personal and career advancement.

In the workplace, English has become the default language of communication for many industries, including technology, finance, and hospitality. Job seekers with strong English skills enjoy a significant advantage, as many employers require staff to communicate with clients and colleagues from all around the world. Whether you’re negotiating a deal, collaborating on projects, or seeking new career opportunities, being fluent in English helps you stand out in the competitive job market.

English is also the language of global media, science, and education. Many of the world’s academic institutions offer courses in English, and much of the world’s knowledge, from research papers to online learning materials, is published in English language. Being proficient in English opens up access to this wealth of resources, allowing you to continue learning and growing regardless of where you are.

By choosing an English language course in Malta, you’re not just improving your language skills; you’re investing in your future and opening up a wider range of opportunities. Our partner school, with its internationally recognized academic standards, ensures that you receive top-quality instruction in a supportive and engaging environment. The course you choose will not only improve your skills but also give you the confidence to use English in all areas of your life.

Why choose Malta for your English language course?

Malta offers an ideal setting for students who wish to improve their English while enjoying a unique cultural experience. With a predominantly English-speaking population, Malta offers the chance to practice and improve your language skills both inside and outside the classroom. The country’s rich history, stunning Mediterranean climate, and vibrant international community make it a popular destination for English language learners worldwide.

In addition, Malta is more affordable compared to other English-speaking countries, making it a cost-effective choice for studying English without sacrificing quality. With its warm climate, you can study outdoors, explore the island’s beauty, and soak in the local culture, all while improving your English. With pleasant temperatures averaging 17°C in winter and sunny weather all year round, Malta offers the perfect setting to study while enjoying the sun, sea, and island lifestyle.

The English language school offers a wide range of English language courses in Malta, including general English, business English, and exam preparation courses. Whether you are looking to improve your speaking, writing, reading, or listening skills, the courses are designed to help you progress quickly and effectively. Experienced teachers employ interactive techniques to ensure dynamic and engaging lessons, keeping students motivated and focused throughout their studies. An English language course in Malta offers the perfect opportunity to improve your skills in a relaxed, engaging environment, all while enjoying the island’s unique charm.

Combine your hotel internship with an English language course

If you are already interested in our internship programme, we would definitely recommend completing an English language course before starting with your hotel internship, whether it’s in Malta, Greece, Spain, or any other international destination. The hospitality industry is incredibly diverse and multicultural, with guests and colleagues coming from all over the world. As a result, strong English skills are essential for effective communication in any setting, and especially in hospitality, where seamless interaction is key to providing a high-quality guest experience.

By improving your English language skills before starting your internship, you will be much better equipped to handle the dynamic and global nature of the industry. Communication is at the heart of hospitality, whether you’re helping guests with inquiries, working with colleagues from different backgrounds, or dealing with day-to-day tasks that involve coordination between departments. Mastering English will help you feel more confident when speaking with guests, both in person and via email or phone, and will allow you to collaborate more effectively with your team, ensuring that you contribute to a positive and smooth-running work environment.

In a multicultural workplace, misunderstandings due to language barriers can create challenges, but with strong English skills, you’ll be able to navigate these situations more easily. Plus, when you improve your proficiency before the internship begins, you’ll feel more prepared and comfortable when you enter a professional environment that demands communication in English. Whether you’re communicating with guests, working with colleagues from other countries, or assisting teams with multilingual requirements, being fluent in English will ensure that you’re able to thrive in any hospitality setting, making the most of your internship experience. Ready for an exciting international internship in the hotel industry? Explore our internship opportunities here: https://www.s-w-e-p.com/en/jobboard/

Trips and activities organized by our partner school

While the primary focus of your time in Malta will be improving your English through the English language course in Malta, the school ensures that students can also enjoy a variety of exciting activities to make the most of their time on the island. Here are some of the exciting trips and activities organized by our partner school:

Boat Trips: 🚤🌊

One of the most popular activities at our partner language school is the boat trips, offering students a memorable way to explore the stunning Maltese coastline. These excursions typically include a full-day boat tour along the coast of Malta and the beautiful island of Comino. Students can enjoy swimming in the aquamarine waters of the Blue Lagoon and diving into the crystal-clear waters of Crystal Bay.

Another highlight is the famous trip to the Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves located on the southern coast of Malta. On this excursion, students can board a traditional Maltese boat and explore the caves, where the sunlight creates an incredible blue glow in the water.

These boat trips offer an unforgettable experience while providing a fun and easy-going setting to practice English with fellow students and locals.

Beach Lido: 🌞⛱

The language school also enjoys access to a Beach Lido located just a short walk from the school, offering students of the English language course in Malta the perfect place to relax after classes. The Beach Lido is situated in Balluta Bay, and students can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean or cool off in the heated pool, which is open year-round. The pool, measuring 33 meters in length and 1.9 meters in depth, is ideal for swimming or enjoying a relaxing day by the water.

The Beach Lido also has a fully-equipped fitness center, changing rooms, and showers available for students. A PADI 5-star certified dive center operates from the club, providing an excellent opportunity for students to try scuba diving while on the island.

For those feeling hungry, the on-site restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including fresh fish, pasta, meat, salads, and an extensive selection of drinks. With sunbeds around the pool and direct access to the sea, the Beach Lido is a perfect place to unwind while enjoying beautiful views.

More leisure time and cultural exploration

Malta offers countless opportunities to explore during your free time. After classes, take time to visit the historic capital city of Valletta, just a short distance from St. Julian’s. Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture, museums, and cultural festivals, such as the Harbor Festival and Malta Fashion Week. Explore the pedestrian-friendly streets while practicing English with locals and international visitors.

Alternatively, take a ferry to Gozo, Malta’s sister island, to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and fantastic diving spots. The Blue Hole, a world-famous diving site, offers one of Europe’s best diving experiences. In St. Julian’s, the lively nightlife scene provides an excellent opportunity to socialize with people from around the world. With numerous bars, nightclubs, and open-air discos, this area offers an exciting atmosphere where you can practice your English in a more casual, social setting.

Want to learn more about beautiful Malta? Discover all the details here: https://www.s-w-e-p.com/en/internship-malta-info/

Invest in your future with an English language course in Malta

Learning English is one of the best investments you can make in both your personal and professional life. Whether you want to advance your career, travel more confidently, or connect with the global community, a strong command of English is essential. An English language course in Malta offers top-quality instruction in a beautiful and inspiring environment, ensuring that your language skills improve quickly and effectively.

By choosing to study in Malta, you’re not just gaining language proficiency; you’re embarking on a unique educational experience that combines excellent training with the opportunity to explore a stunning Mediterranean island, engage with a vibrant international community, and create unforgettable memories.

Ready to take your English skills to the next level? 💪
Explore more about our English language courses in Malta right here:
https://www.s-w-e-p.com/en/english-language-school-malta/
Get ready for an unforgettable study abroad experience with us – we are happy to help you achieve your goals! 🌞💕

More about Malta

Our vacancies

Language courses

The post English language course in Malta appeared first on s-w-e-p.com.