Accommodation

Here you can see the different accommodation options.
Maravillas recommends the HOST FAMILIES for young people and adults who want a full immersion in their stay during the Spanish course.

Spanish family

Host family

Among its main advantages we highlight the great opportunity to live an authentic immersion in our culture, to continue practising the language at home with family members, and to make new friends, in a relaxed and fun environment.

The host families will invite you to participate in all the activities organised by them and will help you to integrate in this new environment, so that you will feel at home.

The characteristics of each family are different:  There may be young families with young children, separated ladies or retired couples, with or without pets. They can live in large houses, sometimes with a swimming pool, or in smaller flats near the city centre or the beach. The first condition we ask of all families is that they have time to devote to the students followed by the distance, which cannot exceed 20 minutes' walk to the school.

We understand that for many students it will be their first time living this experience and we want it to be unforgettable, that at the end of the stay the students leave with good experiences, with new friends for life and with a second home in Spain!

All our host families are carefully selected, and before being admitted, our accommodation manager inspects the accommodation and its facilities thoroughly to ensure the well-being of our students. 

Spanish family

How does it work?

It is important that students fill in the registration form as completely as possible so that we have all the necessary information to select the right family. Within the personal information it is essential to indicate the state of health, allergies, preferences in terms of pets, etc.

Just as we have personal information about the student, you will have the same information about the family and the house where you will be staying. We will send you a detailed information sheet about the family - name, address, telephone, email, occupation, children and even a photo - two weeks before arrival at the latest.

Single and double rooms are available for families. Double rooms can only be booked for two friends booking together or for couples.

If you have selected breakfast-only accommodation, you will have this one meal in the house. It usually consists of a continental breakfast, with coffee/tea, juice, cereal or toast.

If you prefer half board, the host family will provide breakfast and dinner every day. Upon arrival it is recommended that you talk to the family to define meal times and discuss your preferences. It is possible that meal times may vary a little from what you are used to in your home country. Remember that you are in Spain!.

Spanish family

⚠️ A suggestion: don't hesitate to talk to your host family and inform them about your preferences. They will do their best to cater to your tastes!

We can cater for special diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, halal and other requirements, both at home and in the school canteen. Don't forget to inform us at the time of enrolment.

At the end of the stay all students fill in an evaluation questionnaire where they can express their opinions about the classes, accommodation,... etc and, thanks to them, we will have a constant flow of information about your experience, which will allow us to constantly improve our work.

Homestay for teenagers

As a centre specialising in courses for young people, we take special care in the choice of host families for our youngest students. In the case of teenage students, accommodation is full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner every day). On school days, breakfast and dinner will be provided by the host family, while lunches will be served in the school dining room. During the weekend, you will receive a picnic lunch to take on the excursion on Saturday and lunch at home with the family on Sunday.

The room will be double or triple, sharing with another student of a different nationality, except if there are two friends/siblings who want to share.

Equipment and conditions

For all students

  • 🛏️ A comfortable bedroom with natural daylight, with an appropriately sized bed (bunk beds can be used for students under 16 years old), as well as bed linen and enough space in a wardrobe/drawers to store your clothes.
  • 🧻 Shared bathroom. Towels will be provided by the host family (please bring your own toiletries).
  • 🧺 Cleaning and laundry once a week (ask about the use of an iron).
  • 📶 WifiWifi is available in almost all of our host families. If they do not, they will share their mobile network with the student for messages or emergencies.
  • 👫 VisitIf you would like to receive visits from your family or friends, please let us know. The secretary's office will inform you if there is availability and the cost of the stay.
  • 🚭 Smoking: smoking is not allowed inside the house, nor outside in the presence of pupils.
  • ☎️ Telephone - The use of the family's landline telephone is not permitted. In case of emergencies, ask permission from the family and pay the cost of the call.
  • 🗝️ Keys - Students under 18 years of age will not be given keys to the family's house during their stay. The family is informed of the student's programme and timetable, thus ensuring that there is always someone at home at the end of the activities.
How far will I be from the school?

All our families live within a maximum 20-minute walk. On your first day, your family will show you the shortest and safest route so you can get around with total independence.

Will I have my own house key?

Only if you are over 18. If you are a minor, your family will always be there to welcome you at the end of your activities, thus ensuring your safety and constant supervision.

Do I need to bring my own bed linen or towels?

It is not necessary. The family will provide you with bed linen and clean towels. You only need to bring your own personal hygiene products, such as shampoo, shower gel or toothpaste.

What if I am vegan, coeliac, or have a food allergy?

You must inform the school, and the school will notify your family in advance. They will adapt their home-cooked recipes to meet your medical or ethical needs without any problem.

How do meals work?

You will enjoy home-cooked breakfasts and dinners with your family to practise your Spanish. Lunch is usually a buffet at the school or a picnic if there are scheduled excursions.

What should I do if I get sick or need medicine?

You must inform your family and the school immediately. Families cannot give you medication on their own, but we have a 24/7 emergency phone number to manage any medical assistance.

Will there be Wi-Fi available in the home?

Most families share their Wi-Fi password. If you don't have one, you must allow the student to use your network for short messages or emergencies with their parents.

Will the family wash my clothes?

Yes, the host service includes the cleaning of your room and one load of laundry per week, so you can focus only on your studies and having a good time.

Will my family speak English with me if I don't understand something?

The goal is for you to learn Spanish. Your family will always speak to you clearly and slowly in Castilian (Spanish) so that your language immersion is complete from day one.

What happens if I don't get along with my assigned family?

If an irreconcilable living situation arises, the school will analyse the situation. If necessary, we will rehome you with another family to ensure your stay is happy and comfortable.

Can I share a room with a friend?

Yes, provided we are informed in advance and they are of the same sex. If you are travelling alone, we try to ensure your roommate is of a different nationality so that you both speak Spanish.

Are there rules about noise or using the bathroom?

Yes, out of respect for the family's rest, it is recommended not to shower or speak very loudly on the phone after 11 pm. Showers should last about 10–15 minutes to be environmentally responsible.

Will the family wake me up for class in the mornings?

It is your responsibility to wake up on time, although they can help you on the first day so you don't feel lost. If you have trouble waking up, please let the school know so we can help you.

Can I use the kitchen to prepare my favourite dishes?

No, for safety and household organisation reasons. Full board includes all meals. You are only allowed in the kitchen to get some water or something specific with the family's permission.

Do I have to help with housework?

It is not an obligation, as you are a guest. However, you are expected to keep your room tidy and, if you help out naturally (such as clearing your plate), it will be a very much appreciated gesture for communal living.

What happens if I miss my flight or train on the last day?

You must inform the school immediately. If the family has space, you can stay an extra night by paying a supplement; if not, the school will help you find an alternative quickly.

How do I communicate with my family if I'm late for dinner?

We recommend exchanging phone numbers on the first day. This way, you can let them know via WhatsApp if you have any questions or if you're going to be a few minutes late, so they don't worry.

Who takes me to the airport on the day of my departure?

The school organises private transfers. It is not the family's responsibility to drive you; they will simply say goodbye to you at the house and make sure you haven't forgotten anything before you are picked up.

Can I ask the family to help me with my homework?

Your host family does not have any academic responsibility, but they will be delighted to chat with you. Talking about your day or asking them simple vocabulary questions is the best way to review what you have learnt in class.

Is smoking allowed in the house or on the balcony?

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the house or outside in the presence of students, for both family members and the students themselves.

What kind of food will they cook for me?

You will eat homemade dishes typical of the Mediterranean diet: varied, balanced, and fresh. It is the perfect opportunity to taste authentic Spanish gastronomy beyond the tourist restaurants.

Should I bring a gift for my hosts on the first day?

It is not mandatory at all, but a small token from your home country is a lovely gesture that helps to break the ice and start the relationship on a very warm note.

Should I give my personal phone number to the family?

It is highly recommended. Exchanging numbers on the first day will allow you to stay in touch via WhatsApp to let them know about minor delays or to resolve quick questions easily.

What happens if I have a specific medical treatment to follow?

Both the school and the family will be informed in advance. The family will provide whatever is necessary (such as space in the fridge if the medicine needs to be kept cold) so that you can follow your treatment as usual.

Other accommodation options

If you prefer the FLATS AND RESIDENCES We have several options, Conors, Parque Miel and Torremiel, owned by the school, which are only a few metres away from our school and have all the amenities and services.

Flats

As an alternative to host family accommodation, we offer our students the possibility to stay in mini-residences, classified as “mini-residences".“CAT.B
It is an ideal solution for students (over 18 years old) who want more independence, for a group of friends who want to stay together or for those who prefer to prepare their own meals.

The school has 3 flats in property, The hotel is located next to our facilities, in the city centre, and only a 15/20 minute walk to the beach.
These are flats to be shared between students and/or teachers in groups, of different capacities, with single or double rooms and bathrooms in the corridor.
They are fully equipped and all include a cleaning service twice a week, free wifi, bath towels and bed linen.

Conors Apartment

Flat «Conors»

This residence has 7 bedrooms - 4 doubles and 3 singles - four complete bathrooms (with showers), a large living room and a large kitchen with 3 refrigerators and two washing machines.
This is the largest flat: the living room has air conditioning hot/cold and a large flat screen TV.
Each room has a desk, television, electric heating and fan.

Flat ParqueMiel

Flat «Parquemiel»

This residence consists of 4 single rooms, a living room, 2 bathrooms (one with shower and one with bathtub), a kitchen with laundry room and a cosy terrace if you want to sunbathe while relaxing after a hard day's work .
All rooms (and common areas) have hot/cold air-conditioning, TV and desk as well as a large flat screen TV in the lounge and a computer for common use.

Torremiel Apartment

Flat «Torremiel»

Brand new, “Torremiel” is our most modern flat. It was completely refurbished in 2018 and has a video entry phone, two double bedrooms, a bathroom with shower, open plan living room with integrated kitchen and oven.


All rooms are equipped with hot/cold air-conditioning, desk, large standing mirror and television.

What apartment options does the school offer and where are they located?

We offer three of our own accommodation options: Conors, Parque Miel, and Torremiel. All of them are strategically located just a 1-minute walk from the school.

What common services are included in all the apartments?

All of them are equipped with free Wi-Fi, towels, and bed linen. A cleaning service is provided twice a week so you don't have to worry about a thing.

What is the "Conors" apartment like and what facilities does it have?

It is the largest one, with 7 bedrooms and a spacious living room with air conditioning. Each bedroom has its own desk and television, making it ideal for studying in peace and quiet.

What makes the "Parque Miel" apartment special?

It offers single rooms and a cosy terrace for sunbathing. Additionally, it features air conditioning in all areas and a communal computer in the living room for everyone to use.

What stands out about the "Torremiel" apartment?

It is the most modern one, completely renovated in 2018. It has a functional design with an integrated kitchen, an oven, and a video intercom, making it perfect for those looking for a more contemporary style.

How are the rooms equipped in general?

All of them feature air conditioning (heating/cooling), a desk for your Spanish homework, a television, and full-length mirrors, ensuring a comfortable and private stay.

Do I have to share a room in the school's apartments?

It is not mandatory. You can choose between single rooms for more privacy or double rooms if you are travelling with someone. Both options feature shared bathrooms located in the hallway.

Are the kitchens equipped for daily cooking?

All apartments have fully equipped kitchens with fridges and washing machines. "Torremiel" even features an oven, and "Conors" has three fridges to ensure there is always plenty of space for everyone.

What type of classification do these residences have?

Our mini-residences are classified as 'CAT.B'. This ensures that the accommodation meets the quality, equipment, and service standards required for international students.

Is there any space to relax outdoors?

Yes, the Parque Miel apartment features a private terrace, a perfect space to relax under the Costa del Sol sun or unwind after a day of classes.

How are the bathrooms distributed in the apartments?

The apartments feature several full bathrooms located in the hallway for communal use. For instance, the Conors apartment has four bathrooms to serve its seven rooms.

What facilities are available for washing my clothes during my stay?

You don't need to look for an external launderette, as the apartments have their own washing machines. The Conors apartment, being the largest, even features two washing machines for extra convenience.

What are the advantages of living in the centre of Arroyo de la Miel?

You will be surrounded by local life, with supermarkets and shops just around the corner. Additionally, being right next to the school, you save both the time and the cost of daily commuting.

What is the atmosphere like in the common areas of the apartments?

They are designed for socialising, featuring large flat-screen televisions and comfortable sofas. It is the perfect place to watch TV in Spanish and practise what you have learned with your classmates.

Do I need to bring my own bed linen or towels?

It is not necessary, as the school provides them and they are included in the service. This allows you to travel lighter and have everything ready from the moment you arrive at your room.

How far are the apartments from the school?

Los apartamentos están situados a una distancia de 2 minutos y entre 15 y 20 minutos caminando de la playa.

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