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		Benefits of Studying at CEDEI In addition to its central location in the heart of colonial Cuenca, CEDEI offers a number of valuable amenities to students: Exclusive discounts at local restaurants and stores A library and an audiovisual collection A computer lab with e-mail and Internet access Fax and mail service Easy access to Expediciones Apullacta, an ecotour agency specializing in student tours A cafe with sandwiches, snacks and drinks All CEDEI students have the opportunity to participate in organized social and cultural activities. These get-togethers offer a means for students to meet other Ecuadorian and international CEDEI students while learning about Ecuadorian culture. Finally, in order to maximize their language and cultural experience, students live with local host families during their stay in Cuenca. Orientation Students receive a comprehensive informational and cultural orientation before the beginning of classes. Topics of discussion include living with an Ecuadorian host family, health and safety issues, the transportation system and other helpful survival tips. In addition, students are given a tour of the city, highlighting the major points of interest and places to go. Cultural & Social Activities CEDEI sponsors a number of non-credit activities for all students at no additional cost, including Latin American dance classes English Film Series Interaction with Ecuadorian students also studying at CEDEI is fostered and encouraged by means of these and other organized activities. In addition, CEDEI can provide information about community volunteer options for interested students. Students may supplement their studies by working a few hours per week with orphanages, feeding programs, the elderly, the handicapped, drug and alcohol addiction programs, street children, etc. Travel Arrangements CEDEI, with the assistance of our partner travel agency, Expediciones Apullacta, is happy to assist participants with making their domestic travel arrangements within Ecuador. These arrangements may include overnight accommodations in Quito upon arrival, airport transfers, flight arrangements between Quito and Cuenca and lodging in Cuenca. CEDEI is one of the few institutions providing this service at no additional cost above the actual travel/hotel/transport costs to the participant. For more information, contact our Office of International Programs. Visa For stays in Ecuador of 90 days or less, citizens of the USA and most other countries do not require a special visa -- participants enter under a tourist visa which they receive upon arrival in the country. For participants planning on staying for more than 90 days, a 12-VIII cultural visa must be obtained from an Ecuadorian consulate in advance of departure from your home country. Since visa requirements may vary by location, please contact the Ecuadorian consulate nearest you for a list of the required documentation for a 12-VIII visa. A current list of Ecuadorian consulates in the USA and Canada is available from the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington, D.C. Further Information Prospective participants are encouraged to contact our US office with any further questions or concerns. In addition, we would be happy to mail an infopack to you. We look forward to hearing from you soon!