Traveling through Spain with your English/Spanish pocket phrase book and dictionary is more than adequate to get around. However, when you are a foreigner living in Spain it is necessary to have a basic grasp of the Spanish language. In the larger cities you will always be able to find someone who speaks English but that is not the case in small villages.
In some towns, aside from the ex-pats, there may not be anyone who speaks English in stores, service companies or government facilities. This can be frustrating and many times embarrassing. Even if you do have a modest grasp of Spanish, you may find in such places as Andalucia that you can’t understand a word since the Spaniards there have a very regional accent that is often hard to decipher. So, a brush up on Spanish may be helpful for this reason.
One of the best ways to learn Spanish with a good foundation in grammar and pronunciation is to attend a language school. A good course will give you the foundation you need to boost your confidence when speaking Spanish in “real life”. Language centers provide audiovisual aids, written exercises, experienced teachers and specific methods to help you learn Spanish. You will, most likel, be taught Castilian Spanish in a language school but you will no doubt be introduced to the local dialect where you are attending school.
Not only will you learn Spanish, you will surely study many aspects of the colourful Spanish lifestyle, history and rich culture. This will help you understand more about the local people and their customs, which, of course, is all intertwined with the language and how it is used. Usually, trips to historical landmarks, local theatres and festivals are incorporated into the course. This is not only a wonderful way to become immersed in the fascinating world of Spain, but it is also an excellent way to meet new, likeminded friends from around the world.
Classes at language schools are typically offered all year round to students of all ages. Spanish classes are taught at all levels (beginner to intermediate and conversation) in group, one-to-one or intensive courses. For people who are here to start a new job, special business Spanish courses are offered. Accommodation can often be arranged by the language center, in the form of living with a selected Spanish family, or, if the center is linked to a local university, perhaps in nearby residence halls.
With just a few useful phrases, you will begin to feel more involved in Spanish life. You will also feel a great satisfaction in being able to travel more freely and be able to communicate, even when you are in towns and villages way off the beaten track. The Spanish people are so friendly and open that it would be a shame to miss out chatting with them at the local tapas bar or just sitting in the plaza. The local Spaniards have so much to offer – great local legends or simply a recommendation to the best place in town to eat. Since so many foreign visitors and residents often speak no Spanish at all, they are always delighted when you make the effort.
