Left to right: Liz, Rachel, Liane, Barbara, Julie, Lea

Experienced Staff
Language & Friendship, Inc. has a staff with more than 100 years of combined experience in intercultural and educational programs. The benefits of this expertise are reflected in the high-quality service provided.

Staff experiences include: advanced degrees in foreign languages; personal family-stay experiences; living in Europe; teaching experiences; leading students abroad; working at such places as the Concordia Language Villages and other student travel programs.

L&F is very proud of its Pro Lingua Award granted by the Minnesota Language Teachers’ Association. The award recognizes outstanding service to and support of linguistic and cultural education by a person or organization from outside the language teaching profession in Minnesota.

Naomi Thomsen, the founder of Language & Friendship, Inc., was presented in 2004 with the Chevalier dans l'ordre des Palmes Académiques, the French government’s highest honor to those who have advanced the cause of French culture and language.

Commitment
Language & Friendship has a strong commitment to intercultural and language-oriented education. Communication is reinforced as a key to understanding other cultures. Knowledge of other languages, an eagerness to improve communication skills, and a curiosity for learning permit greater understanding.

By encouraging growth and curiosity through hosting and travel, we are developing an awareness of our role as world citizens and are moving in the direction of a more peaceful world. Experiencing the life of its people is the best way to become acquainted with another country, its heritage and its values.

Special Program Features
L&F works closely with teachers to create programs designed as a learning experience rather than a simple tour. L&F believes that good preparation is crucial to the success of all its programs; therefore, educational preparatory materials are provided for both students and leaders. L&F's affiliation with other travel professionals and its strong network of teachers abroad results in maximum service and affordable prices.