Hello! I’m Gonzalo Barrigon, a student  from Spain.

I’ve spent four weeks in the north of England. Two of those with Lois and Nick Folkard. They are very friendly people, easy-going in daily life and really skilful cookers. I was disappointed because in my country it is said that English food is very different from the Spanish one so I thought I was going to try some food I’d dislike but it was impossible, they prepared a different meal each day and everything was really good! I have felt very comfortable with them in a small village called Tockwith. It’s a very calm place to make the most of your study ( in my case, it was very good because I had to study, besides English, a subject for my degree in Spain) and for doing sport activities such as running (cycling is another activity you can do; Nick would be very pleased if you go with him on one of his cycling days by the countryside). If you fancy Salsa dancing, you will be able to go with them at night and enjoy it ( in my case, it was my first time doing it and i couldn’t make the most of the night but it motivates me to start dancing. Anyway, you can learn and have fun which is the purpose of the activity).

In addition, they have brought me to several places thank’s to the village’s location which allows you to visit a lot of interesting ones. York was one of those, which is a marvellous city, very close to Tockwith, and you can find it easily catching a bus from the village. I advice you not to miss the visit of the Minster, neither to climb on its tower: you will be able to see the whole city around it. Also, walking along its streets is one thing you must do.

Fountains Abbey was another destination that I liked a lot. If you fancy walking in a quiet place, surrounded by trees, water and feeling so relaxed, this should be one your whole weekend trips.

Also I have visited other places like Leeds ( a great shopping city), and Knaresborough ( a small beautiful town with amazing views). If you enjoy tourism, you may visit many places on your own too.

Referring to the learning, they are experienced teachers and i must thank how they prepared lessons the day before and how they organised each lesson day. Usually they mix games with grammar issues, which is very pleasant way to learn. I’ve improved my English as much I wanted.

To summarise it was a really good experience and i go back home very happy with the level I’ve performed and with the experiences I’ve lived.