I spent three weeks in Nice this summer (2016). It was an incredible experience! When I signed up, I questioned the company's legitimacy because I did not receive a lot of information. It turns out that Teenagers Abroad works in conjunction with a German company known as Sprachcaffe, so communication is more difficult. Both companies are completely legitimate. I was very glad to find that out when I got off the plane and saw someone holding a sign with my name!
My host family was a pleasure. I stayed with many other kids in one fairly large apartment, which facilitated meeting new friends. I did almost everything with kids from my apartment. However, I will warn you that there are a lot of problems with the host families. The following are completely objective illustrations of some of the issues at different families: Some of my friends were not allowed to throw toilet paper into the toilet, and instead had to throw it into a very smelly bin. A friend of mine stayed with a family that could only speak Italian and English. My other friend was fed terribly, and only received one piece of fruit for lunch. That being said, I had a great time with my host family.
If you are an outgoing teenager that is okay with drugs, alcohol, and endless social events, then stay at the residence. If you would enjoy a calmer experience, stay with a host family. Like I said, you are pretty much stuck with the kids at your place. Sometimes there is only one other person staying with the family. The residence is a bigger place for more Type A personalities. Once there, some people have to change where they are staying because it does not suit their lifestyle. That is a hassle. Think about it beforehand.
Finally, consider that most Europeans learn English from a very young age onwards. I would describe 80% of the kids at Sprachcaffe as advanced/proficient English speakers. Many had even been to England for camp with Sprachcaffe in the past. I think I helped improve other people's English more than my French improved. If I could go back in time, I would choose a program better for French learning. You can probably find a more intensive French course that is just as much fun. That being said, if you do choose/have chosen this program, it is certainly not the end of the world. My experience in France was invaluable. I met many amazing people from all over Europe and the Middle East, I grew as a person, and the fun I had is incomparable. The excursions are a blast. The people and teamers (young adults who lead the group and take them on excursions) are very friendly
For the company itself, I have to give 3 stars since the structure of the program does not enforce a French immersion experience. However, if I were rating my holistic experience, it would be 5 stars.
I hope my review helps you if you are considering Teenagers Abroad in Nice! read more