Summary
You have saved and planned for months, and your dream trip to another country is just around the corner. You know you will enjoy the experience more if you can talk with people, order your own food, and feel as though you fit in. However, you might be wondering how to learn the local language. Learning the basics of a new language can seem daunting, but it’s entirely feasible with various options available, catering to different budgets and learning styles.
It turns out that there are many cost-effective ways to learn a new language, ranging from smartphone apps to traditional classes. As you explore your language learning options, focus on acquiring a travel vocabulary. Concentrate on learning essential words and phrases that you would typically use, such as making introductions, asking for directions, getting around, ordering food, and requesting help. Here are six practical ways to learn the basics of a new language before your trip begins.
Duolingo
This free language learning program is both fun and user-friendly, allowing you to work with Duolingo on your home computer or smartphone. Short lessons facilitate learning to read, speak, and listen to the language you are studying. Consequently, Duolingo incorporates video game technology to enhance the language learning experience. It is widely adopted in high school and university classes, but you can also access this popular program independently.
Pimsleur Language Courses
The Pimsleur® Method focused on effective ways to acquire a new language. Dr. Paul Pimsleur developed these language learning resources based on research about how children learn to express themselves. Today, Pimsleur language courses are available online, on CDs, and through smartphone apps. While products can be purchased from Pimsleur.com, borrowing CDs or cassette tapes from your local library is often possible.
BBC Language
The BBC offers basic courses in several languages, especially those spoken in the British Isles, including Welsh and Irish. Moreover, BBC language learning includes essential words and phrases in 40 languages, such as Mandarin, Finnish, Russian, and Swedish. This resource can significantly enhance your travel vocabulary.
Local Classes
Community colleges frequently provide noncredit foreign language classes and conversation courses, as many individuals want to grasp the basics of another language. Fees typically remain below $100 for multi-week courses. Additionally, senior centers often offer affordable foreign language classes. For instance, in Tallahassee, Florida, one local senior center charges just $3 per student for each class session of its French, German, and Italian classes.
Community gathering places, including churches, often participate. For example, Baltimore’s Reverend Oreste Pandola Adult Learning Centre has long provided Italian language and culture classes. Furthermore, Washington, DC’s Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle offers free Spanish classes for adults. The Center for Life and Learning at Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago presents French and Spanish classes for adults aged 60 and above. Saint Rose Catholic Church in Girard, Ohio, hosts both a 90-minute French for Travelers class and multi-week French courses.
Online Tutors and Conversation Partners
The Internet has revolutionized language learning by connecting you with people worldwide. Language learners and tutors can interact via Skype and online chats. Numerous websites are devoted to linking tutors with language learners. For instance, Italki facilitates connections between students and foreign language teachers globally, with fees varying based on services offered.
Social language learning has gained popularity as well. Various websites enable language learners from different countries to engage in online conversations, allowing both participants to practice speaking and listening in the language they are studying. Popular platforms include Busuu, Babbel, and My Happy Planet, making language learning both interactive and accessible.
Language Learning Tips
Be patient with yourself. Learning a language takes time and practice. It is essential to recognize that you may not progress as swiftly as full-time students due to your other commitments, which is completely acceptable.
Practice speaking, whether with another individual or a language learning app. While reading can be helpful, developing the ability to engage in simple conversations will prove more beneficial when traveling.
Lastly, relax and enjoy the learning process. Your efforts to communicate in the local language will be welcomed and appreciated, fostering richer experiences during your travels.
