Learning Spanish In A Spanish Speaking Country
Most language experts agree that the best, fastest way to learn Spanish is to do it in a Spanish-speaking country. Although you may feel lost when you first travel or relocate to a Spanish-speaking country, it won’t be long before you start picking up the language – even without formal studies. On the other hand, if you teach yourself, you’re very likely to continuously commit grammatical errors – in fact, you may also resemble Tarzan in your Spanish conversation skills!
Spanish Language Schools
You can quickly increase the rate at which you learn Spanish by attending a Spanish language school in your new county. Of course, you’ll learn the basics of grammar there, but you’ll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the country. Practicing with locals and learning their slang will also help you to be more fluent and conversational in your new language. Many students at these programs report that they can easily learn a dozen new words every day while studying with native speakers.
You will find, however, when you start looking into some of the international schools, that they may come with a hefty price tag. There are a number of different schools available in most Spanish-speaking countries and you won’t necessarily have to compromise quality for cost. By attending programs in less “touristy” areas – for example, Ecuador versus Mexico – you may be able to get a good deal on language classes.
In addition, look for programs that offer scholarships. If you’re currently attending university, check into some of the courses that are available for students who travel abroad. Your school may even have a program that will allow you to transfer the credits you earn abroad to your current degree program, for a much lower fee than you’d pay as an adult traveler. You’d be surprised how many scholarships are out there – you just need to know where to look.
Most of the classes offered in Spanish-speaking countries are located in bigger cities, where you’ll likely find a wealth of friendly, hospitable people. As you become familiar with your new community, you may be able to find a native speaker who will tutor your for less than traditional classes would cost. You may also be able to tutor Spanish-speaking natives in English, either for cash or in exchange for language lessons.
Some people – especially students – have an ulterior motive in mind when traveling abroad, whether it’s to party, ski, surf, or even to just experience the culture for awhile. If this describes you, it might be best for you seek out that tutor. The one-on-one instruction is likely to provide faster results, so that you can spend more time exploring the culture. Make sure you force yourself to use the language whenever possible, since repetition is one of the best ways to learn any new language.
If learning Spanish in another country is the way you want to learn, you’ve probably made the right decision. While not everyone is able to do so, learning through immersion is definitely the fastest way to teach yourself the new language. Explore your options – schools, community classes, tutors, and self instructions are the four most common ways learn Spanish outside of your own country. Take the time to learn more about all the schools, teachers, and programs in your new area before you choose which one best fits your needs.