We offer homestays with Nicaraguan families in Granada. Homestays include a private room, three meals a day, and a chance to become part of a Nicaraguan family, while practicing Spanish in real-life situations.

The cost of a homestay for 2009 is $90 per week per person. The fees are paid directly to the families each week in advance. For a couple  staying in the same room:  $165 per week

We carefully screen the families to make sure the accommodations are safe, clean and comfortable, and also that the hosts are friendly and hospitable. There are also a number of hotels and hospedajes (bed & breakfast) in Granada with a variety of price ranges. We can help visitors arrange such housing.

Our staff and homestay families really go out of their way to make you feel welcome and to introduce you to the people and culture of Nicaragua. Many of our students have formed warm and lasting relationship with their host families and other Nicaraguans through participation in our programs.

What is it like staying with a family?
Our families are all warm, friendly and safe. We have chosen them carefully, and most have been serving our students for several years. Many of our students make life-long friendships with their host families. They will provide you with a clean private room and good meals. We can accommodate all kinds of dietary needs, as long as you are very explicit about your needs and preferences. The families don’t provide laundry service as a part of the regular homestay, but some will do your laundry for a small price, or let you do your own in the home. Because you are in someone’s home, you need to be respectful and considerate. Discuss any rules or procedures with them at the beginning. For instance, ask them how they feel about issues like your having alcohol in the house, bringing your friends over, etc. Please respect their sleeping hours and meal times. If you are going to miss meals, be sure to let the family know in advance, since they will be preparing food for you. You will pay the family directly each week in advance. They need to be paid in cash, either US dollars or Nicaraguan córdobas. If you would like to bring a gift for the family, they will be very appreciative. They especially like things from your home, like specialty foods, chocolates, souvenirs, picture books, baseball caps, T-shirts, etc. The homes are clean, safe and comfortable, but usually not luxurious. Most families have electric fans instead of air conditioning, and the majority do not have hot water for showers or washing. You may be sharing a bathroom with family members. If those things are problems for you, we can help you find other accommodations.

What if I have problems with my family?
You should be very honest with the family about things that bother you. Don’t let little annoyances grow into major issues. If you are having trouble communicating with them, talk to the site director to get some help. If there are major problems or you just don’t feel comfortable, we can find another family or make other arrangements for you. By the way, this almost never happens at Casa Xalteva. Most of our students are overwhelmed by the kindness and friendliness of the families.

Hotels & Guesthouses

Please contact us for a list of recommended hotels and guesthouses.