DESTINATIONS

SPANISH IN MOTION

Real places. Real conversations.

Language doesn’t live on flashcards—it lives in bustling markets, neighborhood cafes, and vibrant local streets. Gringo Destinations takes you beyond just sightseeing and into small-group adventures designed for authentic connection, real-world practice, and unforgettable experiences.

Ready to pack your Spanish?

Real progress happens when you step away from your computer. Whether you're joining us for one of our local Gringo Gatherings or an international getaway, we provide you a supportive, low-pressure opportunity to speak up, build your confidence, and connect with amazing people—with all the details taken care of. Questions? Just ask.

Mural of monarchs and marigolds by Sarah Swoffer
OCT
19
BEND, Oregon
·
EVENING

Monarchs and Marigolds: Paint and Learn

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with an evening of culture and creativity! Begin with a 30-minute talk on the history and symbolism of monarchs and marigolds, then join us for a guided paint-and-sip session to bring your own masterpiece to life. No experience needed—just bring your favorite drink and a friend!

Paint the magic of Día de los Muertos.

ONLY$60
Learn More
Lave Cave near Bend, Oregon
OCT
2026
guadalajara, MEXICO
·
Five DAYs

Días de los muertos en México

A boutique bucket-list escape to Tlaquepaque. Think charming lodging, world-class artisan shopping, glowing altar processions, and marigold-lined cobblestones. Experience the magic at a relaxed, local pace.

Sights, scents, and sugar skulls in the heart of Mexico—todo en español.

From$899
Coming Soon

Pick · Prep · Go

Uno

Pick your destination

Browse our curated trips and choose the adventure that fits your level and schedule. Group sizes are kept intentionally small to ensure plenty of personal conversation, so spots fill up fast.

Global Destinations

Dos

Get excited

Check your inbox for confirmation and, for longer excursions, join your fellow travelers online with custom pre-trip resources in our community hub. For multi-day trips, our dedicated travel advisor will reach out directly to help with flights or extending your stay.

Zero Logistics Stress

Tres

Show up and speak

Arrive ready to immerse yourself. Your accommodations, activities, and local guides have all been arranged so you can focus on speaking. Every day becomes a new opportunity to use your Spanish in the real world.

Immersion from Day One

Ready to go?

Browse All Trips
BEND, Oregon
·
HALF day

Cuevas y conversación

¿Cómo se dice 'lava tubes' en español? Let's find out.

Step inside a wild, undeveloped lava tube with Wanderlust Tours—the only outfit permitted to explore this subterranean wonder. Free from boardwalks and crowds, this intimate adventure is capped at just seven participants, leaving only headlamps and our bilingual guide, Isaac, to illuminate the path forward. In one of the darkest, quietest places on Earth, you'll discover how ancient volcanic forces carved these tunnels while learning about the unique (and hopefully small!) creatures that still call this cave home.

The interior of a lava tube cave near Bend, Oregon. Chaney Swiney - Wanderlust Tours
Wait, was that a murciélago?

Isaac will lead the full two-hour journey in Spanish (weaving in English and Spanglish as needed) so you can learn terms like stalactite and steam vent in real time rather than off a worksheet. Once you surface and blink back the daylight, we will head straight for tacos to satisfy that post-spelunking hunger before wrapping up the trip with a safe journey back to our starting point.

Group size: We are limited to only seven participants for this tour, with a minimum of four.

Provided: Professional guide, helmet and headlamp, roundtrip transportation from Wanderlust Tours offices in Bend

Please bring: Warm layers, closed-toed shoes, water, your camera, and a few pesos for tacos once we are done

Change of plans? Prior to 48 hours, full refunds available minus a 10% booking fee. Within 48 hours, you may apply your payment towards a future Gringo Destinations event or Gringo Community membership

BEND, Oregon
·
EVENING

Monarchs and Marigolds: Paint and Learn

Paint the magic of Día de los Muertos

Step into the history, heart, and vibrant art of Día de los Muertos, right in the middle of downtown Bend. Your evening begins with a 30-minute talk hosted by Jennifer, Chief Spanish Officer at Gringo Language Academy, exploring the deep cultural magic behind monarchs and marigolds. Discover why millions of mariposas arrive in central Mexico each November and how the glowing cempasúchil flowers guide loved ones home during this sacred celebration.

Paint the spirit, story, and soul of Día de los Muertos.

With a fresh, deeper connection to the tradition, you’ll pick up your brush as Sarah from Let's Paint guides you step-by-step through creating a canvas filled with meaning. No painting experience is needed—simply sip your favorite beverage or wine, laugh with friends, and let every stroke tell a story. More than just a paint night, this is an unforgettable journey through culture, connection, and creativity. You'll leave with a gorgeous piece of art for your home and a heartfelt appreciation for one of the world's most beautiful traditions.

Group size: Only 20 spots have been reserved for this special event, so book early!

Provided: All materials and instruction needed to create - and truly appreciate - your masterpiece

Please bring: Your creative energy (again, no skills required) and a few dollars for the snacks and beverages of your choice.

Change of plans? A full refund is available if cancelled at least 48 hours before the event; a partial refund of 50% is available with less than 48 hours notice.

TLAQUEPAQUE, MEXICO
·
SIX days

Días de los muertos en México

Sights, scents, and sugar skulls in the heart of Mexico—todo en español.

Tlaquepaque comes alive for Día de los Muertos like nowhere else in Jalisco. Pedestrian-only cobblestone streets are transformed with radiant marigold displays, intricate ofrendas, and monumental Catrina installations. From our central boutique base, you’ll experience Mexico’s most cherished holiday at an unhurried, local pace—immersing yourself in the culture, music, and flavors that make autumn here so magical.

Join us for one of Mexico's most iconic celebrations.

Designed specifically for intermediate Spanish speakers, though open to all, this small-group getaway balances effortless cultural discovery with casual, real-world language practice. Whether you’re browsing artisan workshops along Calle Independencia, chatting with local makers, or taking in candlelit evening processions, every moment offers a fun, low-pressure way to build your conversational confidence en español.

THE LODGING

Charming boutique accommodations steps from Tlaquepaque’s central plazas and artisan streets. Unpack once and relax in an intimate, historic setting.

THE MEALS

Daily breakfasts and select group cultural meals included. You’ll also have ample free time to explore Tlaquepaque’s incredible culinary scene independently.

THE HIGHLIGHTS

A curated mix of hands-on cultural activities—from market tours to culinary workshops—with real-world Spanish practice woven seamlessly throughout.

THE LOGISTICS

Complete ground coordination, guided outings, and hosted group experiences—all taken care of. Plus, enjoy complimentary 1-on-1 travel advising to help you book flights or extend your stay.

Group size: Capped at a small group of eight adults for optimal conversation and flexibility.

Provided: Boutique lodging, daily breakfasts, select group meals, hosted experiences

Please bring: Comfortable walking shoes, an open mind, and enthusiasm for practicing your Spanish! Additional packing notes will be sent closer to departure.

Not included: Airfare to Guadalajara (GDL), airport transfers, personal shopping, tips for guides, and certain meals

Change of plans? Prior to 60 days, full refunds available minus deposit. Within 60 days, credit can be applied toward a future Gringo Destinations experience