Rosina Schinella (Australia)

It’s not often that you come across a place that feels just right—a place that aligns with what you need in life and complements you at that moment. For me, that place was Pintadera.

I first came to Pintadera Italian language school in late August 2023. Now, in February 2025, I’m back for the third time.

I was searching for an adventure, cultural immersion, and a way to truly engage with the Italian language, which I had dabbled in without real commitment. That all changed when I enrolled at Pintadera.

Located in the heart of Alghero’s Centro Storico, the school is immersed in the city's vibrant life. My first contact with Nicola immediately drew me in—her genuine care and attention made even our initial correspondence feel personal. Before I knew it, I was enrolled in a four-week course, excited for a new adventure I didn’t yet realize would be life-changing.

Those four weeks were filled with unforgettable experiences. Mornings were dedicated to lessons, with a pausa in between where friendships naturally formed. Afternoons were packed with activities: sunset sailing, dolphin-spotting, drinks with new friends, dinners, excursions, cooking traditional Sardinian food, opera nights, live music, gelato runs, and so much more. Many of these were organized by the school, all leading to lifelong connections.

Of course, the learning itself was just as remarkable. The morning sessions balanced grammar instruction with engaging conversation practice. The school’s approach kept students involved, and Nicola and Angela’s seamless administration made everything run smoothly. The teachers were highly professional, hands-on, and attentive to individual needs. The curriculum blended essential grammar with cultural insights, making every lesson dynamic and interactive.

Each of my three visits has built upon the last. In August 2023 and September 2024, warm weather allowed for plenty of outdoor activities. Now, in February 2025, it’s colder and the town is quieter—a bonus in some ways—but the quality of language learning remains the same. Smaller winter classes offer a more personalized experience, catering to individual needs.

What makes Pintadera special? For me, it feels like coming home to friends and family. It’s a welcoming school that embraces everyone, whether you're a beginner, a così così speaker like me, or an advanced learner.

If you want to learn Italian in a place that feels like home, where you're truly seen and supported, and where you’ll make lifelong friends, Pintadera is the place for you. And what better setting than Alghero, Sardinia—where the beauty of the place reflects the uniqueness of the school?

Rosie