Hospitality & Tourism internship placements are hosted by small, locally owned businesses such as hotels, hostels, tour agencies, tour operators, or restaurants. Interns contribute to various business functions, including sales, customer service, marketing, and daily operations.
We strive to align placements with your goals and interests, ensuring you gain valuable experience in your chosen field. However, placements are designed to be mutually beneficial, and tasks will vary based on the business’s current needs and projects.
In-country coordinators are available to support you but will not be present daily at your placement. Interns should be ready to work independently and show leadership.
Work Schedule
Work hours vary by placement, typically ranging from 4–6 hours per day, Monday to Friday. In addition, you’ll attend a daily 1-hour Spanish class from Monday to Friday. Weekends are free for relaxation, exploration, or personal projects.
Dress Code
In Guatemala, personal hygiene and professional appearance are highly valued. Even in hot weather, beachwear is not appropriate for the city. Pack clothing that ranges from casual to business casual and ensure it is modest and not overly revealing or extravagant.
Interns are expected to wear business casual attire and maintain a neat appearance.
Transportation
Internship placements are in the Antigua area. Walking or taking the bus is the most affordable and effective way to travel to your placement. Travel times vary from 20–60 minutes each way, depending on your placement and housing. Bus fares typically cost Q8 (approximately $1) or less, though costs may be higher for placements further from Antigua.
On your first day, a representative will guide you using local transport, providing all the necessary information. Afterward, interns are responsible for their daily transportation. Taxis are available but more expensive. Budget around $5 per day for transportation expenses.
Spanish Classes for Interns
As part of the program, you will receive a 1-hour Spanish lesson daily, Monday to Friday. These classes are tailored to your level and work schedule, focusing on vocabulary relevant to your placement.
The Native Spanish Program uses the Communicative Method, emphasizing immersive spoken interaction. Lessons are conducted entirely in Spanish by certified, native-speaking instructors.
Internship Deliverables
All interns are required to submit weekly journals and a final deliverable.
- Practicums (under 8 weeks): A 10–20-page written report or a 1-hour PowerPoint presentation.
- Internships (8 weeks or longer): Both a 10–20-page report and a 1-hour PowerPoint presentation.
Deliverables should cover:
- An overview of your placement and role.
- An organization review.
- A sector analysis in your host or home country.
- Challenges faced during the internship.
- Outcomes and results achieved.
Maximizing Your Experience
The success of your internship depends on your efforts and proactive approach. Be prepared for language barriers and differences in work culture, structure, and management. Flexibility and adaptability are key to making the most of this experience.
Location
Projects are located in and around the city of Antigua. Which was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This is a popular tourist spot due to the pretty colonial buildings and ancient ruins. From the streets and rooftops, you can even see volcanoes towering over the city. Antigua’s Central Plaza has plenty of restaurants, shops, markets, and regular cultural events, making it an exciting city to call home.
Project Tasks
- Assisting with sales, reservations, pre-arrival services, and daily operations.
- Supporting promotional efforts through community outreach and updating materials.
- Managing online marketing, including website updates, social media, and review sites.
- Providing client services, managing bookings, offering recommendations, and addressing requests.
- Sharing information about local activities, restaurants, and travel options.
- Helping with basic accounting and stock and supply purchases.
- Ensuring excellent guest and customer satisfaction.
