Hola a todos! I just joined today. I have decided to pursue my dream of becoming fluent in Spanish and my first MAJOR step on this journey is a 3-month stint in Madrid (starting in early July...6 weeks away!!). Considering my goals and my financial constraints, I have opted for the Au Pair route which places me with a family in Madrid (I'm a 25-year-old female by the way) I help with the children (babysitting, their English-speaking skills, day-to-day activities) for approximately 25 hours per week (5 hours each weekday). Included with the fee I pay are full room & board, two weeks of language courses (further studies are at my additional expense), and I receive a stipend. If anyone has any advice on this sort of arrangement (similar experiences, advice/tips,...HORROR STORIES!! eek ) please feel free to share. Thanks a bunch.