Attention all lovers of Italian language and culture: These will be the last days to take advantage of the Early Bird special and save $200 on an unforgettable trip to Santo Stefano, Italy.  November 1, 2009 will be the last day to register for the trip at the discounted rate and save $200 on the cost of the program.

Tucked away in the mountains of Abruzzi, the small, medieval town of Santo Stefano sits secluded from the influences of outside languages and culture.  The special location has enabled the town and its residents to maintain many aspects of their traditional way of life- amidst narrow alleys and stone houses dating back to the 15^th century- while located only an hour and a half from Rome.  Few towns still offer this glimpse into traditional Italian life.

While the town itself is truly remarkable, the AES Language and Culture Fluency Program will change your understanding of Italian living.  This intensive immersion program will not only dramatically improve your Italian language skills, it will offer you access to native connoisseurs of Italian food and drink and experts in Italian culture and etiquette.  While AES has designed a comprehensive program to take full advantage of your time in Santo Stefano, there will also be free time to explore the village and interact with the local people at your leisure.  This includes a day in the ancient city of L’Aquila.

Your experience does not have to start and stop in Santo Stefano.  Prepare yourself for the program by arriving early and immersing yourself in a city such as Rome.  Or, spend a few nights in Venice after the program to practice what you have just learned.

November 1^st certainly will not be the last opportunity to register for the trip.  The registration deadline is March 1, 2010.  However, if you have been craving a trip to Italy, now is the time to enjoy these savings.  Either way, we hope to see you in Italy this September!  It will be an unforgettable experience.