Learning How to Learn, Through the Lens of Spanish
Trip updated in October!
Learning a new language isn’t just about conjugating verbs or DuoLingo streaks—it’s one of the oldest (and most fun) ways to learn how to learn.
On this trip, we’ll spend three weeks diving deeply into Spanish through technology-assisted self-directed learning and real-world immersion. We’ll also explore beautiful Valencia, eat delicious food every day, and see what else we can discover in this vibrant coastal city.
When you fly home, you’ll feel more comfortable with both Spanish language and independent travel—and more empowered to learn whatever you want (or need) to learn as you move forward in life.
¡Bienvenidos a Valencia 2026!
When
January 31 – February 22, 2026
Where
Valencia, Spain
Who
8-12 participants (ages 15-19, flexible)
STAFF
Blake Boles & Iris Ducker
Cost
$3300 plus flights & lunches
Applications Open
We already have a number of applicants, with space for a few more. Apply now!
↑ “Get psyched – we’re in Spain!” (UA Spain 2018) ↑
The Big Idea
Learning Spanish is like getting a new passport—one that opens the door to 21 countries and 500 million native speakers. It’s also a relatively simple language to learn, and one commonly used in the United States and Canada.
But beyond these practical reasons, learning Spanish is a great way to explore the many different ways to learn almost anything in this world, such as:
- formal instruction and tutoring
- informal self-directed learning: both old-school (like flashcards) and new-school (like apps and AI)
- immersion learning & social practice: like putting yourself “in over your head” or trying really hard to connect with that cute Spanish person🔥
That’s why the Valencia 2026 trip has two purposes: to learn the Spanish language, but also to discuss how we’re learning as we go—and how you can apply similar methods to whatever you might want (or need) to learn back at home, whether it’s chess, math, art, physics, dance, writing, history, programming, parkour, making friends, or something entirely different.
↑ The Spain 2018 group with Spanish school teachers ↑
What We’ll Do
During our three weeks together in Valencia, you’ll enjoy a wide variety of Spanish-related activities, as well as plenty of time to rest, hang out, and explore Valencia with other group members—and maybe some other new friends that you make along the way.
Mornings
- Self-directed co-learning sessions with occasional 1-on-1 tutoring & mini-classes delivered by our hired Spanish instructor
- “Learning how to learn” workshops with UA leaders
- Field trips to learn and explore in the public spaces in & around Valencia
- Two sleep-in mornings each week 😴😴
Afternoons & Evenings
- Language exchanges with local Spanish teens, in partnership with local English language schools (or just nice teens we discover organically!)
- Free time to explore Valencia in small groups
- Cooking group dinners at our hostel (and cleaning up, too!)
- Evening games, group meetings, and check-ins
Where We’ll Stay
We’ve secured two 6-person dorm rooms in a clean, safe, and well-reviewed youth hostel in central Valencia. These rooms will just be for UA participants, but you’ll still get to rub shoulders with fellow travelers in the hostel common areas and kitchen.
The daily hostel breakfast includes freshly baked bread and croissants, eggs, ham, cheese, juices, fruit, granola, nutella, peanut butter, coffee, a variety of milks, and vegan and gluten free options.
Getting There & Away
We’re asking all teenage participants on this trip to fly independently to Valencia International Airport. If you’ve never flown internationally, this may feel intimidating—but if you’re ready for the independence of this trip, we believe that you’re ready for the flight, too!
Daily(ish) Schedule
9am
Buffet breakfast in hostel (also available earlier)
10am
Self-directed co-working & field trips
1pm
Independent lunch with in small groups
3pm
Afternoon activity and/or free time
7pm
Hostel dinner, prepared by us
8pm
Group meeting + possible evening adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
Who’s leading this trip?
The trip leaders are Blake Boles and Iris Ducker. Learn more about them here.
What’s covered by the program fee?
The Unschool Adventures program fee includes:
- Accommodation
- Breakfasts and dinners
- All group-sponsored activities
- Laundry once a week
- Trip t-shirt
It does not include:
- Roundtrip airfare to Valencia International Airport
- Lunches (purchased independently each day in the city)
- Public transport in Valencia (~$2 per journey), which may or may not be necessary
How flexible is the age range?
Our minimum age is listed as 15 for this trip due to the restrictions placed on young travelers by most major airlines. Those under age 15 are often required to use Unaccompanied Minor services, which is a service that UA cannot always make happen. But if you have a 14-year-old applicant who’s dying to go on this trip, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, and we’ll explore what’s possible.
The maximum age that we typically accept is 20 or 21; before offering a spot to an older applicant, we will have a conversation about expectations and social dynamics inherent to mixed-age groups.
How much Spanish do I need to know before the program begins?
To make the most of our time together, we’d like everyone to arrive with an A1 (beginner) level of Spanish proficiency. This is a level that most learners can achieve with an introductory Spanish class or a few months of part-time practice with apps (or in less time, with more intensive practice). There are many free Spanish self-assessment tests available online to determine your level.
Will I survive if I’m vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free?
Absolutely! Note that more severe dietary restrictions (such as celiac or specific allergies) may be challenging or impossible to accommodate. Please describe your specific needs and restrictions in the online application.
What will the weather be like? What do I need to bring?
Valencia in February is typically cool and sunny, with some days of rain. Blake spent a month there last winter, and he very much enjoyed it—and he’s a spoiled California boy, so that says something. (averages)
All you’ll need to bring are basic city clothes, with a few layers for different weather conditions. Qué fácil!
Where can we explore in our free time?
During the day, you can go pretty much anywhere in downtown Valencia as you tell a trip leader where you’re going, when you plan to return, and any changes you make along the way. Nighttime outings are different and subject to trip leader approval (we won’t always say yes).
Following Unschool Adventures tried-and-true rules for group outings, we require that you always go out in a group of 3 or larger. Please understand that these rules do limit your autonomy, but we have them for important reasons, which we are always happy to explain to you.
We expect participants to get around Valencia by public transport and foot. Rental bikes and scooters are unfortunately not part of the deal (due to injury and insurance considerations). Regarding swimming at Valencia’s lovely beaches, it’s possible with leader supervision.
Is Valencia safe for teenagers?
Since our first trip in 2008, Unschool Adventures has facilitated independent exploration of foreign cities by teen groups without serious incident. While no such exploration is risk-free, we encourage you to think of Valencia as you do other big cities in Europe that young people can successfully navigate with basic precautions, street smarts, and regular communication with caring adults (the UA staff). If you’re unsure whether this level of freedom and responsibility is appropriate for your teen, don’t hesitate to contact Blake (blake@unschooladventures.com) prior to applying.
Can you accommodate my ADHD / social anxiety / neurodivergence / etc?
Over the years, Unschool Adventures has accommodated countless neuroatypical young adults. If you’ve read this webpage carefully and feel like you can and really want to participate in what we’re offering—we’re happy to have you.
We do expect all participants to participate fully in the program, unless you’re deathly ill. UA trips are not a la carte “join only if you feel like it” programs, but rather “go big or go home” experiences for young people ready to boldly step into a higher level of challenge, freedom, and responsibility, regardless of labels and diagnoses.
What is the drug and alcohol policy?
Our trip is drug- and alcohol-free, and the use or possession of any substances are cause for immediate dismissal.
How does the application and enrollment process work?
Apply ASAP for your best chance of joining this program. We conduct brief video interviews with all applicants to make sure that they’re a good fit for the program, and then we make offers of enrollment. When offered enrollment, you’ll have two weeks to submit your paperwork and the $1500 non-refundable deposit—then your spot is secured! The remaining balance is due in early December.
I have another question!
Wonderful! Please email it directly to blake@unschooladventures.com.
↑ Unschool Adventurers aren’t weird — they’re charismatic! (Berlin 2023) ↑
Finally, a former Unschool Adventurer says…
“Learning Spanish was the most valuable thing I ever did, in terms of learning how I learn and teaching myself effectively. I actively approach my classes and other learning through the lens of what worked in my foreign language learning. So my language-nerd self thoroughly approves of the new trip mission and I hope it goes amazingly!”
– Caroline, Humans of México 2022