I am planning to attend the Don Quijote language school in Madrid this July for at least 1 week, possibly 2. I thought I would have a place to stay with a friend in Madrid, but his flat is not going to be finished by then. Soooo, I will most likely reserve accommodations through the school. Has anyone stayed in the student flats through Don Quijote or a similar school? What exactly should I expect? They are cheaper than booking a hostal, but of course I will have a bit less privacy. I'm planning on booking a single room, non-shared. Will I have less "freedom" when it comes to being out at night?

I am also torn with deciding to take 1 week or 2 weeks of classes. I will be in Spain for 30 days total. I would love to take 2 weeks of language classes, but then I wouldn't have as much time to travel around. Does the school usually have excursions on the weekends, like to Toledo or elsewhere? If you were in my shoes and had 30 days in Spain (5 days will be spent in Gijón, which is already planned) and don't speak Spanish as well as desired, what would you do? See as many places as possible, or spend 2 weeks in Madrid? (I already went to BCN, Bilbao and Gijón last year.) I know, it's one of those questions without a true answer.

One more question: is July a super busy time for Don Quijote schools, and how soon should I book my reservation for the classes/student flat?

Thanks all!